Gross Domestic Product

Gross Domestic Product

Pique TheatreSemi-professional company

60 minutesWillow Studio
Finlay McGowan, consultant, has woken up tied to a chair. Being unable to leave, his captors, two civil servants, explain his situation. After years of development, HM Government had perfected The System, an electronic, economic Nostradamus, whose word is law and always, always knows the path to economic growth. There’s just one problem, according to The System, for the economy to grow, Finlay has to kill himself. He cannot be made to do it and cannot be coerced. Gross Domestic Product is a dark comedy that asks the question: how much is a human life really worth?

About the show

Gross Domestic Product is a dark comedy by Pique Theatre, performed at Willow Studio as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Finlay McGowan, a consultant, wakes up tied to a chair, held by two civil servants who explain that HM Government's perfected economic forecasting system — The System — has determined that the economy will only grow if Finlay kills himself. He cannot be made to do it and cannot be coerced. The show asks one stark question: how much is a human life really worth? Running 60 minutes, it carries age guidance of 14+.

Why see this show?

A tightly wound dark comedy that pits one man against an all-knowing economic machine. The premise is genuinely unsettling yet laced with absurdist wit — perfect for anyone who enjoys theatre that makes you laugh and then feel slightly sick about it.

Event Details

Friday 1 - Friday 22 August 2025

All performances at 11:35

11 performances

60 minutes

4 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025

Ticket Price

£10 (8)

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

Where is it performed?

Gross Domestic Product is performed at Willow Studio at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Is it suitable for children?

Age guidance is 14+. The show contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, scenes of violence, and strong language.

What does it cost?

Tickets are £10, with a concession price also available. See the booking link on this page for current ticket prices.

What kind of show is it?

It is a dark comedy and new writing piece, categorised under Theatre at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

About This Theatre Production

Gross Domestic Product is a theatre performance at Willow Studio during Edinburgh Festival 2025. Running for 60 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 £10

Age Guidance: 14+

Content Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Scenes of violence, Strong language/swearing

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.Gross Domestic Product represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

Looking for more theatre shows at Edinburgh Festival 2025?

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