A woman’s right to choose, coercive relationships and the complexity of female friendship are at the heart of Jumper Bumps, the debut play by Amelia Rodger, premiering at this year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Invites audiences to reflect on motherhood, vulnerability and support systems
Running from 30 July to 25 August at the Gilded Balloon’s Appleton Tower venue, the 60-minute two-hander explores the shifting dynamic between best friends Eris and Atlanta. Eris wants a baby. Atlanta does not. When Eris finds herself pregnant and stuck in an emotionally abusive relationship, their friendship is tested in unexpected and painful ways.
Described as “approachable drama” with “a powerful exploration of serious themes”, Jumper Bumps uses naturalistic dialogue and comedic elements to unpack the tension between autonomy and expectation. The show invites audiences to reflect on motherhood, vulnerability and support systems, and asks what it means to make the right choice in the face of social pressure.
The play is produced and directed by Emma Ruse, co-founder and CEO of Framework Theatre Company, which supports emerging artists across Scotland. Ruse has worked with Stellar Quines, Play, Pie & a Pint, and Wonder Fools, and was named in Young Women Scot’s 30 under 30 list in 2024.
Amelia Rodger, who also performs the role of Eris, is an early-career artist from Perth. She trained at Performing Arts Studio Scotland and was the first mentee on The Ten, a UK talent development scheme. She appeared in last year’s five-star Fringe show Pals by Mirren Wilson. Casting for the role of Atlanta is yet to be announced.
Jumper Bumps will run daily at 16:20 at the Gilded Balloon Appleton Tower, Ruby, from 30 July to 25 August 2025.
