Scottish actor David Paisley, a well-kent face from Casualty and River City has swapped performing for directing with his latest project: a retelling of Burns’ life from the perspective of the women who knew him, written by David’s mother, the author Janet Paisley.

1 Give five reasons why people should come to see The Lasses O?
Our wonderful Lasses are almost five reasons by themselves: the performers in my show are amazing, they’ve blown me away with their talent. I couldn’t have asked for a better cast. The script, by Janet Paisley, has been a gift to work on as a first project for me: poignant, often hilarious, earthy, truthful writing. The music: we have integrated singing and dancing and joy into the show, and have used Burns’ music as a way of taking us further into that world. The venue: Henderson’s is a gorgeous place to perform and the food is outstanding, although given I’m vegetarian I may be biased. Discovering an exciting new perspective on Burns’ life, told from a feminine perspective.

2 What are your four favourite things about taking part in the Fringe?
The atmosphere, meeting other artists and performers, taking risks on seeing new things, hard work paying off.

3 What three other shows do you hope to see while you’re here?
Susan Calman – she’s great, Quality Control at the Underbelly and Sunset Song at the Assembly Rooms.

4 What two words sum up your show?
Burns’ Women.

5 What one word sums up how you feel about directing?
Fulfilment.

The Lasses O, Henderson’s Vegetarian Restaurant and Arts Venue, 225 2131, until 29 Aug (not 26 & 27), 10am (28), 8pm (29), £12 (£8).