The List

Festival Theatre Edinburgh

With its impressive Colin Ross-designed three-story glass façade, the former Empire Palace Theatre is at once welcoming and grand. It boasts one of the largest stages in the UK; so big that it has occasionally been converted into a studio theatre with room to spare. The auditorium seats over 1900 people on three levels. Maintaining a tradition for variety that dates back nearly two centuries, it programmes everything from popular comedy to classical opera. Not only is it the capital’s home for Scottish Ballet and Scottish Opera, it is also one of the cornerstones of the Edinburgh International Festival and, thanks to investment in cutting edge projection equipment, the Edinburgh International Film Festival. Having built a reputation as a leading dance house, it hosts a cutting-edge contemporary dance season alongside large-scale musicals, international ballet productions and a variety of one-night musical and comedy events. At street level, Café Lucia is open daily, and there are bars on each floor open on performance days in addition to private function rooms. The same management runs the King's Theatre.

What's On @ Festival Theatre Edinburgh

Lost In Music - One Night at the Disco
Get ready to recreate the Magical '70s and let us take you on a musical journey straight to the heart of Disco! Relive some of the greatest songs of all time from Artists such as Donna Summer, Gloria Gaynor, Earth Wind & Fire, Sister Sledge and Chic. This show boasts a sensational live band, incredibly talented cast and stunning vocals and is sure to have you dancing all night long! So, come dressed to impress as we celebrate the golden age of Disco! With songs such as Never Can Say Goodbye, On The Radio, Hot Stuff, Car Wash, Boogie Wonderland and many, many more! It's the feel-good show of the year! Lose yourself with us and leave your troubles at home! This is a tribute show and is in no way affiliated with any original artists/estates/management companies or similar shows.
The Battle

The Battle

21 Apr 2026 - 25 Apr 2026

London, 1995. Two of the country’s biggest bands release singles on the same day, commencing the battle of Britpop, starring Matthew Horne. On one side, clean-cut, art-school Londoners. On the other: raw and unapologetic lads from Manchester. Rivalries flare, friendships fracture and at the centre of it all a mania that would define an era – were you Blur or Oasis? From the chaos of the Brit Awards to the infamous chart war, The Battle is a wickedly funny dive into one of the greatest rivalries in rock history. Featuring legendary personalities and unforgettable clashes, it was never just about the music, but power, pride, and uncontrollable competitiveness. Expect filthy language and razor-sharp dialogue in this cut-throat new comedy that puts you right at the heart of the feuding, the fame, and the fallout. Starring Mathew Horne as the music industry executive who kicked off the race to No 1. between the two bands.
Matthew Bourne's Production of The Red Shoes
Matthew Bourne’s production of The Red Shoes Based on the film by Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger and the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale. Music by Bernard Herrmann. A timeless fairytale and Academy Award-winning movie, The Red Shoes has captivated audiences and inspired generations of dancers with its powerful tale of obsession, possession and one girl’s dream to be the greatest dancer in the world. Victoria Page lives to dance but her ambitions become a fierce struggle between the two men who inspire her passion. Matthew Bourne’s magical double Olivier Award-winning production of the legendary Powell and Pressburger film is set to a score orchestrated by Terry Davies, featuring the mesmerizing music of golden-age Hollywood composer Bernard Herrmann, with sumptuous designs by Lez Brotherston (set and costumes), Paule Constable (lighting) and Paul Groothuis (sound). An intoxicating drama where life imitates art with fateful consequences, The Red Shoes will dazzle your senses and break your heart.
Serena Terry: Therapy

Serena Terry: Therapy

15 May 2026 - 21 Oct 2026

Over the last 6 months, Serena has tried and tested 22 different types of therapy in a bid to improve her physical and mental health and calm the chaos that comes with being a busy mum on the cusp of turning 40, resulting in some diverse, embarrassing and hilarious outcomes. She’ll take you through her journey of self-improvement, hailing what worked, calling bullshit on the rest, and revealing how in the midst of the madness, her new found search for solace has left her husband and children regularly bewildered. Park your worries at the door and strap in for a night of honest hilarity that’ll leave tears of laughter streaming down your face, providing a little bit of your own therapy in return.
SIX

SIX

15 Sept 2026 - 26 Sept 2026

Reigning on Broadway and in the West End, the international smash hit musical SIX is coming to the Edinburgh Festival Theatre! Winner of 35 major international awards including the 2022 Tony Award for ‘Best Original Score’ and ‘Best Costume Design’ on Broadway, double Whatsonstage Award winner for ‘Best West End Show’ 2022 & 2023 and a Gold-Disk winning album, this sell-out Tudor take-off has ‘an incredibly strong and powerful message’ (The Australian) and is ‘pure entertainment’ (New York Times). From Tudor Queens to Pop Princesses, the six wives of Henry VIII take to the mic to tell their tales, remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into an 80-minute celebration of 21st century girl power. These Queens may have green sleeves but their lipstick is rebellious red. Think you know the rhyme, think again…
The High Life

The High Life

7 Apr 2026 - 11 Apr 2026

The High Life returns in a new musical spectacular featuring all four original cast members - Alan Cumming, Forbes Masson, Siobhan Redmond and Patrick Ryecart. Oh dearie me! Air Scotia has been sold, and unless our intrepid cabin crew can prove they’re still fit for purpose it looks like the future destination for Air Scotia is the scrap heap. In this flight for their lives, our cut-price cabin crew must get themselves (and their passengers) to their destination safely, testing their mettle and putting decades old friendships and rivalries finally to rest. Based on the original much loved BBC Scotland cult comedy series, this revival sees our iconic characters finding themselves growing older in an ever-changing world. It’s wickedly funny, features new and original music, is stuffed full of camp silliness and is cleared for take-off. Co-produced by National Theatre of Scotland and Dundee Rep Theatre in association with Aberdeen Performing Arts and Capital Theatres.
Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo

Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo

12 May 2026 - 20 Jun 2026

Celebrating 50 years as the world’s foremost gender-skewing comic ballet company, parodying the conventions of romantic and classical dance. ‘The Trocks’ return with a sensational repertoire of hilarious and breath-taking pieces that will challenge every dance norm with technical panache.
Ballet Black at 25

Ballet Black at 25

19 Jun 2026 - 19 Jun 2026

Cassa Pancho’s Ballet Black celebrates its 25th Anniversary with a much-anticipated return to the Festival Theatre. For twenty-five years, Cassa Pancho’s Ballet Black has brought bold new ballet to stages across the UK, creating and sharing original stories with dancers from around the world. This anniversary season celebrates a quarter of a century of innovation, mentoring and collaboration, while looking ahead to the future The double bill features Ingoma (2019), Mthuthuzeli November’s Olivier and Black British Theatre Award-winning debut and is joined by a new creation from Alvin Ailey royalty Hope Boykin, a two-time Bessie Award winner, making her UK choreographic debut.
K-Pop All Stars

K-Pop All Stars

18 Jul 2026 - 18 Jul 2026

From stadium-shaking anthems to breathtaking choreography, K-Pop All Stars celebrates the global phenomenon redefining pop culture. With explosive performances of today’s biggest K-pop hits from BlackPink, NewJeans, Katseye, and BTS and spectacular numbers inspired by the smash-hit film  K-pop Demon Hunters , this high-energy tribute brings the thrill of Seoul’s stages to life. With a sea of light sticks glowing and the crowd moving as one, you’ll feel the music and the electrifying energy of  K-Pop All Stars  in this live, immersive experience!
Little Shop of Horrors

Little Shop of Horrors

24 Jul 2026 - 25 Jul 2026

Join us for a spectacular performance as The Beyond Broadway Experience – featuring 200 talented young performers – brings you Little Shop of Horrors. When timid floral assistant Seymour Krelborn stumbles upon a strange plant, he has no idea how his life is about to change. As the plant’s growth draws attention to the struggling Skid Row flower shop, Seymour finds himself on the brink of fame, fortune, and the affection of his coworker, Audrey. But there’s a catch – this peculiar plant has a secret, unquenchable craving. As its demands grow sinister, Seymour must decide how far he’ll go to keep his dreams alive, pitting his desire for a better life against the moral cost of keeping a monster fed. Experience the energy, passion, and talent of 200 young performers bringing this cult-classic musical to life.
Matthew Bourne's The Car Man

Matthew Bourne's The Car Man

3 Nov 2026 - 7 Nov 2026

Matthew Bourne’s award-winning The Car Man is back! Based on Bizet’s ever-popular opera, The Car Man has one of the most thrilling and instantly recognisable scores in New Adventures’ repertoire. The familiar 19 th  Century Spanish cigarette factory becomes a greasy 1950’s garage-diner in the American Mid-West where the dreams and passions of a small-town are shattered by the arrival of a handsome and enigmatic stranger. Fuelled by heat and desire, the inhabitants are driven into an unstoppable spiral of greed, lust, betrayal and revenge. Matthew Bourne’s vivid storytelling combines with one of the most passionately dramatic scores ever written, with music by Terry Davies featuring Rodion Shchedrin’s Carmen Suite (after Bizet’s Carmen), to create a dance thriller like no other.   The Car Man  will ignite your senses and leave you breathless.
Scottish Ballet: Emergence

Scottish Ballet: Emergence

1 Oct 2026 - 3 Oct 2026

[Limited availability] Join the Scottish Ballet Artistic Team as they share insights from behind the scenes of their production of Emergence focusing on the creation of the show, the choreography, and the music.
Sylvia

Sylvia

13 Oct 2026 - 17 Oct 2026

Torn between loyalty, love, and revolution, the remarkable story of Sylvia Pankhurst’s life explodes onto the stage when SYLVIA storms into Edinburgh in 2026. The Olivier Award-winning electrifying musical is fuelled by an irresistible soundtrack that joyously unites hip hop, funk, and soul, and is brought to life by world-renowned choreographer and storyteller Kate Prince (ZooNation). Powerhouse talent Beverley Knight (Sister Act, The Drifters Girl, Memphis The Musical)  will reprise her Olivier award winning role as Emmeline Pankhurst, alongside  Sharon Rose   (Hamilton, Motown, Beautiful: The Carol King Musical, One Day)  as Sylvia. Book now for this revolutionary, uplifting musical direct from London’s Old Vic theatre.
The Ballad of Johnny and June

The Ballad of Johnny and June

28 Apr 2026 - 2 May 2026

He was a small-town musician and storyteller with a voice that stirred the soul. She was the comedienne of the first family of country music. The Ballad of Johnny & June takes you inside the soaring highs and shattering lows of a love story that defined an era. From the stage to the road, through triumphs, heartbreak, and redemption this brand-new musical, created with the support of their family and told through the eyes of their son, John Carter Cash, shows why Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash remain one of the most influential couples of the 20th Century. American musical theatre star Christopher Ryan Grant, who originated the role of Johnny Cash in New York and Canada premiere, now brings his acclaimed portrayal to the UK stage for the first time, joined by award-nominated actress Christina Bianco (Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, The Wizard of Oz). Packed with legendary hits from I Walk the Line, Ring of Fire, Hey Porter, Jackson, I’ve Been Everywhere and directed by two-time Tony Award winner Des McAnuff (Jersey Boys, The Who’s Tommy, and Summer: The Donna Summer Musical) don’t miss your chance to join music royalty for The Ballad of Johnny & June.
The Choir of Man

The Choir of Man

1 Dec 2026 - 5 Dec 2026

Welcome to The Choir of Man, the best pub in the world… Come ready to drink in the excitement! Brimming with hits from artists such as Queen, Luther Vandross, Sia, Paul Simon, Adele, Guns & Roses, Avicii and Katy Perry to name but a few, this is a pub like no other! A wildly talented group of incredible instrumentalists, world-class wordsmiths, and sensational singers, this cast of nine (extra)ordinary guys serve it all… live! An uplifting celebration of community and friendship where everyone is welcome, don’t miss this feel-good night of foot-stomping entertainment, so good you’ll want to come back and see it again and again.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
The internationally celebrated novel that captivated 10 million readers is coming in a brand-new staging more thrilling than ever. Christopher Boone is gifted with a brilliant mind for numbers but unsettled by the unpredictability of people and everyday life. When a neighbour’s dog is discovered killed, he finds himself under suspicion. Determined to prove his innocence, Christopher becomes both detective and suspect, drawn into a mystery that grows darker and more complex with every clue he uncovers. What begins as the search for a culprit soon reveals secrets closer to home, forcing him to confront truths that will test his courage, his family, and his understanding of trust, independence, and the wider world. Inventive, gripping, and moving, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time combines the intrigue of a whodunnit with a powerful coming-of-age story in an unforgettable theatrical event.
The Constant Wife

The Constant Wife

1 Apr 2026 - 4 Apr 2026

Prior to London's West End, witness this Royal Shakespeare Company production about a woman determined to do things her own way. It's 1927 and Constance is a very unhappy woman. “Nonsense” says her mother “she eats well, sleeps well, dresses well and she’s losing weight. No woman can be unhappy in those circumstances.” Constance is the perfect wife and mother, and her husband is as devoted to her as he is to his mistress, who just happens to be her best friend. Adapted by Olivier Award-winner Laura Wade (Home, I’m Darling; TV’s Rivals) from Somerset Maugham’s glittering comedy, originally opened in Stratford upon Avon to marvellous reviews and sold every seat. Directed by Co-Artistic Director of the RSC Tamara Harvey, this sparkling new version will star Kara Tointon (TV’s Mr Selfridge and Winner of Strictly Come Dancing) and features original music composed by multi award- winning jazz artist Jamie Cullum. David Pugh and Cunard present the Royal Shakespeare Company production by Laura Wade based on the comedy by W Somerset Maugham.
The Karate Kid - The Musical

The Karate Kid - The Musical

23 Jun 2026 - 27 Jun 2026

The iconic 80s generation defining movie is now a dynamic new musical. Daniel is the new kid in town trying to fit in until he becomes the target of Cobra Kai’s relentless star student, Johnny. Underestimated and outmatched, Daniel struggles to find his footing, until Ali, Johnny’s ex, sees something in Daniel that no one else does. As Johnny refuses to step aside, teenage rivalry turns into something more sinister. Daniel discovers guidance from Mr. Miyagi who teaches him that karate isn’t about fighting, it’s about balance, respect and that the greatest victories are won from within. Featuring a Tony Award®-winning design team and an electrifying new score, this ‘elegant, emotional and remarkable’ (BroadwayWorld) coming-of-age masterpiece is reimagined with stunning artistry and groundbreaking choreography. Honouring the roots of the timeless story, this musical celebrates resilience, mentorship, and the quiet strength that bridges generations.
The Silence of the Lambs

The Silence of the Lambs

8 Sept 2026 - 12 Sept 2026

Come face to face with the chilling cultural phenomenon The Silence of the Lambs as it makes its world stage-play premiere in 2026. Based on Thomas Harris’s gripping literary masterpiece, this electrifying new play sets the definitive psychological thriller loose in the Festival Theatre. When FBI trainee Clarice Starling interviews psychiatrist and infamous murderer Hannibal Lecter, it’s hoped his brilliant mind will help catch sadistic new killer, Buffalo Bill. But first, Dr Lecter has questions of his own. With another girl now missing and time running out, Clarice must decide: keep safe distance… or let Hannibal ‘The Cannibal’ into her head…? Written by the award-winning Gina Gionfriddo and directed by Nikolai Foster, The Silence of the Lambs gets you closer than ever to the iconic thrills and terrifyingly memorable characters of the landmark novel.
The Spy Who Came in from the Cold

The Spy Who Came in from the Cold

21 Apr 2026 - 25 Apr 2026

For the first time ever, a novel by John le Carré — the undisputed master of the modern spy genre — is brought to life in a thrilling stage adaptation. Based on the worldwide bestseller and named in TIME Magazine’s All-Time Greatest 100 Novels, and s tarring Ralf Little ( The Royle Family, Death In Paradise ), The Spy Who Came In From The Cold is a riveting journey through the fog-shrouded terrain of Cold War espionage, deception, and moral compromise. British intelligence officer Alec Leamas is weary, hardened, and ready to come in from the cold. But when Control, the Chief of the Circus, presents one final mission—dangerous, deceptive, and deeply personal—Leamas agrees to stay in the game. Dispatched into enemy territory, he finds his convictions tested and his defences breached by Liz Gold, a quietly defiant librarian whose compassion threatens to thaw his frostbitten heart. And what of veteran spymaster George Smiley? What is his role in the operation? Following a sold-out run at  Chichester Festival Theatre  and a hit West End premiere, this gripping new play written by  David Eldridge  ( Beginning ,   Middle, End ) and directed by  Jeremy   Herrin  ( Grace Pervades ,  People, Places & Things ) comes to Edinburgh for one week only. 
This Is Rambert

This Is Rambert

2 Jul 2026 - 4 Jul 2026

This is Rambert: living, breathing dance DNA. Spotlighting the voices, visions and ideas shaping our world today — dance that’s alive with urgency, energy and relevance. Rambert’s centenary brings together bold, high-impact works from (LA)HORDE, Emma Evelein and a brand-new commission. Each piece speaks to the now, amplifies untold stories and mirrors the speed and intensity of modern life. A glimpse of the future from a company that’s always led the way. Celebrate 100 years of Rambert with a Golden Centenary Ticket, an extraordinary way to honour the past and inspire the future of dance. Find out more.
Nikita Kuzmin - Supernova!

Nikita Kuzmin - Supernova!

12 Jun 2026 - 19 Jul 2026

Strictly Come Dancing finalist and fan favourite Nikita Kuzmin takes centre stage in the explosive new dance spectacular Supernova, touring the UK in June and July 2026. Created in collaboration with world-renowned choreographer and BAFTA award recipient Jason Gilkison and presented by international dance sensation Burn the Floor. Supernova is a show fuelled by the firepower of world class performers and creatives from around the world. Expect an evening of electrifying entertainment where artistry meets innovation, and Nikitas trademark charm, power and charisma shine brighter than ever. Get ready the Supernova is about to explode!
Scottish Ballet's Starstruck

Scottish Ballet's Starstruck

16 Apr 2026 - 9 May 2026

Escape with us to the glamour and grace of Paris, 1960. Step into the studio, watch the dancers warm up and hear the piano start to play – a new show is taking shape that will be fit for the gods. One of the first choreographers to bring the ‘American style’ to Europe, the legendary Gene Kelly was invited to create an original work for the Paris Opera Ballet in 1960. Dancing the lead role of Aphrodite was the ‘Étoile’ of Paris, Claude Bessy, who had worked with Kelly in Hollywood and encouraged him across the Atlantic. His jazzy, joyful Pas de Dieux was highly acclaimed at the time as ‘a breath of fresh air’ and has now been given a new set of wings for its UK premiere. In collaboration with Kelly’s widow, Patricia Ward Kelly, Scottish Ballet’s CEO/Artistic Director Christopher Hampson and designer Lez Brotherston (The Snow Queen, The Secret Theatre) have lovingly revived the original ballet and added a delightful new twist. You’ll be transported into the world where jazz meets ballet, and the stars align. Gene Kelly’s pioneering choreography and much-loved style influenced a generation of dance-makers, and we honour his creative legacy with this playful new production. The performance is set to Gershwin’s effortlessly cool Concerto in F, with extracts from Chopin, recorded by the Scottish Ballet Orchestra. We promise, Starstruck is exactly the evening of entertainment you’ve been longing for. The running time for Scottish Ballet’s Starstruck is one hour, with no interval. Please Note: If you choose to have your tickets posted, this will take longer than normal and may take a few weeks. As an alternative, please consider using e-tickets, or printing your tickets at home.
Simon and Garfunkel Through the Years

Simon and Garfunkel Through the Years

15 Apr 2026 - 24 Oct 2026

Critically-acclaimed as one of the greatest tribute shows in the world, Simon & Garfunkel Through the Years has toured extensively in the UK, Europe, Australia and USA, receiving standing ovations and selling out theatres night after night. Fronted by Dan Haynes and Pete Richards collectively known as Bookends, the show is a “masterpiece” (BBC Radio) in musicianship; exquisitely recreating the unmistakable sound of Simon & Garfunkel. Featuring all the iconic songs, including The Sound of Silence, Mrs Robinson, The Boxer and the smash hit Bridge Over Troubled Water. This live concert experience is without a doubt the most authentic tribute to Simon & Garfunkel touring the world today.
Barnum

Barnum

6 Oct 2026 - 10 Oct 2026

Matt Rawle stars as the world's greatest showman, P.T. Barnum. Hand in hand with wife Charity, Barnum’s life and career twists and turns as he schemes and dreams his way to headier heights. West End star Matt Rawle will take centre stage as the legendary 19 th century showman P.T. Barnum.  This spectacular production directed by Jonathan O’Boyle and choreographed by Oti Mabuse will feature an extraordinary ensemble cast of over 20 actor-musicians, acrobats and amazing circus acts. Audiences are certain to delight at every sight, wonder and miracle that the name Barnum stands for! Barnum first took the UK by storm when it played the London Palladium, with Michael Crawford making theatrical history with a death-defying nightly tightrope walk across the stage. And now, Matt Rawle steps into Barnum’s shoes and on to the tightrope! Come follow the band with the glorious music of multi-award-winner Cy Coleman , Michael Stewart ’s lyrics and Mark Bramble ’s book. Barnum features a whole host of classic show tunes including Join the Circus, Colours of My Life, Come Follow the Band and Love Makes Such Fools of Us All. Music by Cy Coleman | Lyrics by Michael Stewart | Book by Mark Bramble Presented by Bill Kenwright Ltd, a Watermill Theatre production
Ed Gamble: Fresh Hell

Ed Gamble: Fresh Hell

18 Apr 2026 - 26 Jun 2027

Everyone’s annoying cousin, Ed Gamble, is going back on tour in 2027 across the UK & Ireland with some more of his stand up grot. So come and see the self appointed Crown Prince of Visualised Companion Podcasts harrumph about the stage. Co-host of the award winning mega hit podcast Off Menu with James Acaster, host of visualised spinoffs The Traitors: Uncloaked and Taskmaster The Podcast as well as new upcoming panel show Unacceptable airing this summer, Ed’s brand new tour, Fresh Hell follows his biggest ever sold out world tour across Europe, North America and Australasia. “A Class Act. Comedy Gold” ★★★★ Time Out “consistently eye-wateringly hilarious” ★★★★ The i “You can bet on Gamble to deliver laughs” Evening Standard
The Marriage of Figaro

The Marriage of Figaro

9 May 2026 - 13 Jun 2026

Sir Thomas Allen revives his much-loved production of Mozart’s unstoppable masterpiece. Reflecting the insight and experience of a seasoned performer, Allen’s Figaro is full of humour, subtlety, and wit. Simon Higlett’s sumptuous designs provide the backdrop for a comedy of social revolution and subversion that is as relevant today as ever, and this time sung in English. All wedding days are complicated, but nothing compared to Figaro’s. After discovering that his boss, the Count, plots to seduce his wife, Figaro and Susanna must use their wit to outsmart their employer, whilst making it down the aisle. Mozart’s bubbling, energetic score – conducted by Dane Lam shows his true theatrical genius for getting to the heart of each character. Edward Jowle is Figaro, with Ava Dodd as Susanna. The main cast is rounded out by Ian Rucker making his Company debut as Count Almaviva, Alexandra Lowe as the Countess, and Simone McIntosh as Cherubino. Creatives: Conductor Dane Lam Director Sir Thomas Allen Designer Simon Higlett Lighting Designer Mark Jonathan Choreographer Kally Lloyd-Jones The Orchestra of Scottish Opera The Chorus of The Marriage of Figaro Cast: Figaro Edward Jowle Susanna Ava Dodd Count Almaviva Ian Rucker Countess Almaviva Alexandra Lowe Cherubino Simone McIntosh Doctor Bartolo Edward Hawkins Don Basilio / Don Curio Luvo Maranti Marcellina Jeni Bern Antonio Francis Church Enhance your experience of The Marriage of Figaro with a pre-show talk on Saturday 13 June at 6pm. Running time: Approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes including a 20-minute interval Language: Sung in English with English supertitles Translation by Amanda Holden

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