Abigail Burdess (No.2, 1983 - 92), is a screen writer and comedian, however during the pandemic she decided to start writing thrillers, with her first novel due to be published in March 2023. She talks to us about how even during her time at Roedean she had wanted to be a writer and how that dream turned into a reality.

What is your favourite memory of Roedean?

Directing a play of The Worst Witch in Junior House. All the little witches went up on their broomsticks out of the door at one end of the stage and landed through the door at the other end – making it look like they’d flown in-between. The girls worked together to make a moment of pure magic. 

What was the best piece of advice you were given whilst at School?

My housemistress, Mrs Scott said, “Make a decision. You can always make another decision.” 

When you were at Roedean, what did you want to be when you ‘grew-up’?

According to the essay I’ve just found from Upper Three B, I wanted to be a writer. “I would like to write good books, that I know people will enjoy reading, because every time I try to write it ends up really muddled." 

What are you now you’ve grown up?

I’m a writer, comedian and actor. Fortunately I now have an editor. He makes sure nothing “ends up really muddled."

What does your job involve?

I write books and plays and TV and radio shows – the odd musical. Occasionally I also do some (usually comic) acting, or stand-up comedy. It involves a lot of rejection and very rare moments of giddy glamour.

What have you done that you are most proud of?

I once played a dancing snooker table. That was fun. I suppose I’m always proudest of whatever I’ve done most recently, so I’ll say my first thriller, Mother’s Day, out this March. You might recognise the school my heroine, Anna, goes to.

What are the three objects you would take with you to a desert island?

A boat, another boat, and a third boat. I do not do well alone.

What books have had a significant influence on you and why?

Kate Atkinson’s ‘A God In Ruins’ floored me. Joseph Heller’s ‘Catch 22’ was the funniest thing I’d ever read at one time. ‘Misery’ by Stephen King, is simultaneously a brilliant thriller, and a profound book about art and addiction. They are all books you want to keep reading. I love a story. 

What is on your bucket list?

I’d like to make a movie. Also write an original sitcom. Also a rom-com. Maybe I should go all in and write a romantic situational comedy movie?

If you had one year and unlimited funds, what would you do?

Do I only have one year? I mean, do I die at the end of it? I’d give the unlimited funds to an environmental charity - not because I’m a good person but because I’ve already got more responsibility than I can handle. Then I'd finish my current book. I hate leaving stuff undone.