The original play upon which the series is based, which has been filmed on stage.
A success story originating in the brilliant mind of Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Fleabag has transformed from a play to a series. While the series is not new, there is something that has just been released: the play version. Filmed by National Theatre Live (NTL) on stage in London, and screened to a few cinemas then, it has now been released (on Amazon Prime) to raise money for the theatre industry which is suffering.
The original play, written and performed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, is a one-woman-show as it is unusual in theatre, let alone for a play that has become more successful. While the TV series adds more characters and therefore dialogue, the play is a monologue which is even more unfiltered and darker than the series. Basically, it's just a woman letting you into her mind - and as it's Phoebe's mind, it's hilarious and brilliant.
Here's the link to the Amazon Prime Rental:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B086T51SFL/ref=atv_dp_b01_det_c_UTPsmN_1_1
And here's the original NTL link, with some additional reviews and info for cinematic screenings in the future:
http://ntlive.nationaltheatre.org.uk/productions/ntlout37-fleabag
The main info on the page, for some caution in terms of age and language:
"See the hilarious, award-winning, one-woman show that inspired the BBC’s hit TV series Fleabag, broadcast live to cinemas from London’s West End. Written and performed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Fleabag, Killing Eve) and directed by Vicky Jones, Fleabag is a rip-roaring look at some sort of woman living her sort of life. Fleabag may seem oversexed, emotionally unfiltered and self-obsessed, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. With family and friendships under strain and a guinea pig café struggling to keep afloat, Fleabag suddenly finds herself with nothing to lose. Playing to sold-out audiences in New York and London, don’t miss your chance to see this ‘legitimately hilarious show’ (New Yorker), broadcast live to a cinema near you. Age recommendation 15+, Contains strong language"
The series which has been created based on the play is of course worth watching if you haven't done so yet. (See recommendation in the series blog post "Female Leads")
