Writer/performer Ed Saunders-Lee is taking his show, I Am Yours Sincerely, to this summer’s Edinburgh Fringe.
It is “the true, untold story of John Cox, a member of the Special Operations Executive during the Second World War. This play goes through his life, from university student to soldier to spy.”
Ed stopped by for a chat about the show and why this particular story means so much to him.
Where: theSpace Triplex – Studio
When: 2-10 Aug
Ticket link: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/i-am-yours-sincerely
You are taking “I Am Yours Sincerely,” a show about your step-grandfather, John Cox MC, a member of the Special Operations Executive in World War 2, to Edinburgh. What does it mean to you to bring his story to the stage?
Bringing John Cox’s story to the stage means a great deal to me personally and artistically.
It is an opportunity to honour a remarkable man who played a significant yet often overlooked role in history.
Sharing his experiences allows me to connect with audiences on a deeper level, offering them a unique glimpse into the human side of wartime bravery and sacrifice.
This project is also a way to preserve and celebrate his legacy, ensuring that the lessons and memories of that time continue to resonate today.
Also on a more personal note, this show has a huge familial connection as a lot of John’s relatives have seen and experienced the show and even though I never met him I feel like I have gotten to know him well.
Why do you think there is still an appetite for stories from the World Wars, and what might Cox have made of all the interest?
There is still a strong appetite for World War stories because they highlight universal themes of courage, resilience, and the complexities of human nature under extreme conditions.
These stories serve as powerful reminders of our shared history and the sacrifices made for the freedoms we enjoy today.
John, with his humility and sense of duty, might have been surprised by the interest, but I think he would appreciate the recognition of the efforts made by him and his comrades.
It’s a testament to the enduring impact of their actions and the importance of remembering and learning from the past.
What should audiences expect from the show?
Audiences can expect a deeply moving and intimate portrayal of John Cox’s wartime experiences.
The show combines historical accuracy with personal anecdotes, offering a vivid glimpse into his life through his own letters and memoirs.
It’s a blend of drama and storytelling that captures the essence of his bravery, the friendships he formed, the losses he endured, and the love he found.
Expect an emotionally engaging performance that brings history to life in a very personal and relatable way.
Why did you decide to focus on a family story for this show rather than fictionalising the conflict for drama?
Focusing on a family story and John’s own experiences adds a layer of authenticity and emotional depth that fiction often cannot match.
By sharing John’s real experiences, I can connect more personally with the audience (and them with the character), creating a powerful and genuine narrative.
This approach allows me to honour his memory accurately and respectfully, providing a true account of his heroism and humanity.
It also highlights the personal impact of war, making the historical events more relatable and poignant for the audience.
In my opinion there is a dramatic difference between telling a ‘war story’ which glorifies war and fictionalises conflict and telling one man’s experiences as he faces unbelievable challenges.
What’s next for the show?
After the Edinburgh Fringe, I hope to take I Am Yours Sincerely to a wider audience through additional performances and possibly even a tour.
I would love to explore multimedia adaptations, such as a recorded version or a documentary, to reach those who might not be able to attend in person.
There is some international interest in this story, Shane Gower, an American teacher, and historian in Tennessee, wrote a book about one of John’s close friends (who appears in the play) and I would love to take this play to him and the audiences in the United States.
Ultimately, my goal is to continue sharing John Cox’s story with as many people as possible, ensuring his legacy and the lessons of his time remain alive and influential.