Dr Orr: A Musical Retelling of Macbeth

Dr Orr: A Musical Retelling of Macbeth

Edinburgh University Shakespeare CompanyStudent/Youth company

Google Edinburgh University Shakespeare Company
40 minutesAmphitheatre
Dr. Orr is a sharply modern, musical retelling of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, underscored by the haunting music of Glasgow-born composer Buxton Orr. Set in a 1990s hospital, a brilliant female surgeon is overlooked for a younger male colleague. Unrecognised and underestimated, she begins to unravel. Spurred by her manipulative boyfriend and the whispers of three strange electricians, she spirals toward bloodshed. Along with a stirring score of music, the hospital becomes a battleground of paranoia, betrayal, and supernatural occurrences. Dr. Orr brings the Bard’s darkest tragedy to life with surgical precision and musical originality.

About the show

Dr Orr is a musical retelling of Shakespeare's Macbeth by Edinburgh University Shakespeare Company, set in a modern hospital. A brilliant female surgeon, overlooked for a younger male colleague, begins to unravel. Spurred by her manipulative boyfriend and the whispers of three strange electricians, she spirals toward bloodshed. The show is underscored by music from Glasgow-born composer Buxton Orr. Running 40 minutes at the Amphitheatre, tickets are £10. Suitable for ages 12 and over.

Why see this show?

Transplanting Macbeth into a contemporary hospital brings out the power and paranoia of the original in a fresh, immediate way. The use of a female surgeon as the tragic lead and electricians in place of witches shows genuine dramatic intelligence in a tightly constructed 40-minute version.

Tickets

£10 (8)

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When

Tuesday 19 - Saturday 23 August 2025

All performances at 10:00

5 performances

Duration

40 mins

Cast

8 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025

Venue
Amphitheatre

Hill Square

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the show?

A musical retelling of Shakespeare's Macbeth set in a modern hospital, underscored by music from Glasgow-born composer Buxton Orr.

How does it update the original?

A female surgeon takes the central role, and three strange electricians replace the witches. The hospital becomes a battleground of paranoia, betrayal and supernatural occurrences.

How long is it?

The show runs for 40 minutes.

What does a ticket cost?

Tickets are £10, with a concession rate also available.

Is there an age recommendation?

The show is suitable for audiences aged 12 and over.

Are there content warnings?

The show contains scenes of violence.

About This Theatre Production

Dr Orr: A Musical Retelling of Macbeth is a theatre performance at Amphitheatre during Edinburgh Festival 2025. Running for 40 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: Amphitheatre

Amphitheatre 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 £10

Age Guidance: 12+

Content Warnings: Scenes of violence

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.Dr Orr: A Musical Retelling of Macbeth represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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