About DARKFIELD
DARKFIELD presents this immersive, interactive experience at Potterrow Plaza in a completely dark shipping container. Using the nostalgic aesthetic of video games from the nineteen-eighties, ARCADE is a choose-your-own-path narrative that explores the evolving relationship between players and avatars. Over 30 minutes, players are fully immersed using 360-degree binaural sound, sensory effects and a bespoke DARKFIELD ARCADE machine. Players are asked existential questions about free will and consciousness in a world where some may win and some may lose. The show is for audiences aged 16 and over.
Why see this show?
A genuinely dark and disorienting experience that puts you alone in the dark with your own choices. If you want Fringe theatre that is truly immersive and uncomfortable in the best sense, DARKFIELD delivers it.
£15 (13)
Friday 1 - Monday 25 August 2025
Weekdays at 12:00 & 12:45 & 13:30 & 14:15 & 15:00 & 15:45 & 16:30 & 17:15 & 18:00 & 18:45 & 19:30 & 20:15 & 21:00 & 21:45, Weekends at 12:00 & 12:45 & 13:30 & 14:15 & 15:00 & 15:45 & 16:30 & 17:15 & 18:00 & 18:45 & 19:30 & 20:15 & 21:00 & 21:45
296 performances
30 mins
20 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the experience?
The experience runs for 30 minutes.
Where does it take place?
It takes place at Potterrow Plaza in a dark shipping container.
What is the age guidance?
The show is for audiences aged 16 and over.
How much do tickets cost?
Tickets are £15, with concessions at £13.
Are there any important warnings?
Audiences will be standing throughout. The experience contains complete darkness, explicit language, game-like scenes of violence, death, warfare and sexual content. It is not suitable for those with claustrophobia. No latecomers are admitted. Two access/seated spaces are available on request.
What type of experience is this?
It is an immersive, interactive choose-your-own-path experience using 360-degree binaural sound, sensory effects and a bespoke arcade machine, set in a completely dark shipping container.
About This Theatre Production
ARCADE is a theatre performance at Potterrow Plaza – Container 1 during Edinburgh Festival 2025. Running for 30 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: Potterrow Plaza – Container 1
Potterrow Plaza – Container 1 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 £15
Age Guidance: 16+
Content Warnings: Audience will be standing throughout, Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Scenes of violence, Strong language/swearing, More information 2 access/seated spaces available (on request). Contains complete darkness, explicit language, game-like scenes of violence, death, warfare & sexual content. Not suitable for those with claustrophobia. No latecomers.
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.ARCADE 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
