In The Lady Garden showcases the talent of three women all over 60
![Babs Horton Babs Horton](https://cdn.comedy.co.uk/images/library/people/900x450/b/babs_horton.jpg)
Let us introduce you to Babs Horton. She used to work in a psychiatric unit, she's had seven novels published and now she at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with her first play. Oh, she's also 70 years-old.
The Lady Gardeners is the company behind the play and is made up of Babs, Julia and Deborah - three women who are all over sixty. We caught up with Babs to find out how she's feeling about the biggest arts festival in the world and get some more insight into the Lady Garden and it's Gardeners.
Firstly, do we need to know about gardening to be a member of the Lady Gardeners?
No. Anyone can join the Lady Gardeners. You don't even need to know your Knobweed, from your Nipplewort. Just come along with an open mind and bring your friends!
We'll be honest Babs, we didn't even know Knobweed was a thing!
We want to see lots of other shows, catch up with old friends and meet new people. There's bound to be the odd glass of wine and lots of nonsense.
![Babs Horton. Credit: Dom Moore Babs Horton. Credit: Dom Moore](https://cdn.comedy.co.uk/images/library/people/900x450/b/babs_horton_b.jpg)
What's the most surprising thing you've learnt about yourself through the process of creating this show?
How much I enjoy working with other people and how collaboration enriches your work. Laughter is so important.It should be on every school syllabus!
Agreed! Speaking of school, if you, or Alice Parminter [In The Lady Garden's main character] could give one piece of advice to the younger generation, what would it be?
I'd say: turn around any unkind comments used against you and use them as a force for good. Many years ago, I was humiliated by, let's call her Mrs Clutterbuck, who made such spiteful and negative comments about my writing that I gave up for a long time. Her words made me miserable and knocked what little confidence I had. I decided I had to turn this negativity into positivity. After that, every time I got a rejection or knockback, I said, 'F*ck you Mrs Clutterbuck' and on I went. It worked a treat!
If you had to create a signature cocktail for In The Lady Garden, what would be in it and what would its name be?
Off White Lady - 2 parts gin, one part vermouth, dash of bitters, maraschino cherry and a sprig of rosemary, on the rocks.
If you could choose any actor or actress to join the Lady Gardeners for a special performance, who would it be and why?
Sadly, she's no longer with us, but it would be but Victoria Wood. She was a great comedic actress and brilliant writer. She had the ability to infuse life with joy and laughter.
Help us publish more great content by becoming a BCG Supporter. You'll be backing our mission to champion, celebrate and promote British comedy in all its forms: past, present and future.
We understand times are tough, but if you believe in the power of laughter we'd be honoured to have you join us. Advertising doesn't cover our costs, so every single donation matters and is put to good use. Thank you.
Love comedy? Find out more