A Murder in Motley
Mermaids at the Fringe • Student/Youth company
About Mermaids at the Fringe
A Murder in Motley is performed by Mermaids at the Fringe, a student company, at the Willow Studio. Set in Jacobean London, a murder has been committed by a man wearing motley — and two playing fools from different productions must prove their innocence. With help from a bard, an innkeeper's wife, a harlot and the all-knowing judge, the show weaves together torrid affairs, dubious investments in the fledgling Globe Theatre, scandalous family secrets and syphilis. At the climax, the audience plays jury and delivers the verdict. The show runs for 50 minutes, is suitable for ages 16 and over, and involves audience participation. Tickets are £9.
Why see this show?
A witty, interactive murder mystery set in Jacobean London that hands the verdict to the audience. The premise is clever — fools on trial, scandal at the Globe, the audience as jury — and it's genuinely fun to be part of how the story ends.
Friday 1 - Saturday 9 August 2025
All performances at 12:50
9 performances
50 minutes
7 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025
£9 (7.50)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The show runs for 50 minutes.
What is the age guidance?
The show is recommended for ages 16 and over.
How much do tickets cost?
Tickets are £9, with a concession price of £7.50.
Does the audience get involved?
Yes — at the climax of the trial, the audience plays jury and delivers the verdict.
What content warnings apply?
The show includes audience participation, potentially distressing or triggering themes, references to prostitution and sex, references to murder, references to capital punishment (rope shown onstage, hanging implied), and minimal discussion of homophobia.
Where does the show take place?
The show is performed at the Willow Studio as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
About This Theatre Production
A Murder in Motley is a theatre performance at Willow Studio during Edinburgh Festival 2025. Running for 50 minutes, this show is part of the world's largest arts festival, bringing together performers and audiences from across the globe.
Experience compelling storytelling brought to life by talented performers. Theatre at Edinburgh ranges from intimate black box productions to grand stage spectacles.
Venue: Willow Studio
Willow Studio is one of Edinburgh's Festival venues, hosting a variety of performances throughout August. Located in the heart of the city, the venue is accessible by public transport and within walking distance of other Festival locations.
Tips for Attending
- •Check for trigger warnings if sensitive to certain topics
- •Most Fringe theatre runs without interval
- •Latecomers may not be admitted
- •Consider matinee performances for a relaxed experience
Booking Information
Ticket Prices: From £9
Age Guidance: 16+
Content Warnings: Audience participation, Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, More information References to prostitution and sex (discussion of Harlot’s profession throughout). References to murder (offstage). References to capital punishment (rope shown onstage, hanging implied). Discussion of homophobia (minimal discussion).
Book early to avoid disappointment. Popular shows sell out quickly during Edinburgh Festival.
Part of Edinburgh Festival 2025
Edinburgh Festival transforms Scotland's capital into the world's leading cultural destination every August. With thousands of performances across hundreds of venues, the festival offers unparalleled choice for culture lovers.A Murder in Motley represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.
Looking for more theatre shows at Edinburgh Festival 2025?
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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API
