Kanpur: 1857
Niall Moorjani Storyteller and Pleasance • Professional company
Google Niall Moorjani Storyteller and PleasanceKanpur: 1857
By Niall Moorjani Storyteller and Pleasance • Professional company
Google Niall Moorjani Storyteller and PleasanceAbout Niall Moorjani Storyteller and Pleasance
Niall Moorjani Storyteller and Pleasance present this new play at Beneath as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. An Indian rebel, strapped to a cannon, must answer to a British officer for the crimes of Kanpur — an uprising against British colonial forces. Written by and starring Niall Moorjani, and co-directed by and starring Jonathan Oldfield, the show is based on historical events and uses comedy to satirise contemporary questions of gender, colonial violence, and making art in times of crisis. The production won the Pleasance's Charlie Hartill Fund. Runs 60 minutes, suitable for those aged 12 and over.
Why see this show?
A comedic provocation built on a real historical standoff — Niall Moorjani uses the past to pick apart the present, asking uncomfortable questions about violence, gender, and who gets to be the hero. Sharp, theatrical, and likely to be explosive.
£10
Wednesday 30 July - Sunday 24 August 2025
15:40, 13:30, 11:40
25 performances
60 mins
3 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The show runs for 60 minutes.
What is the ticket price?
Tickets start from £10 — see the booking link on this page for full pricing details.
What is the age guidance?
The show is suitable for those aged 12 and over.
Where does the show take place?
The show is at Beneath as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Are there content warnings?
Yes — the show contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, including references to colonial violence, execution, infanticide, and gender oppression.
What is the show about?
Based on historical events, the play depicts an Indian rebel answering to a British officer for the crimes of Kanpur, using comedy to explore colonial violence, gender, and the ethics of making art in times of crisis.
About This Theatre Production
Kanpur: 1857 is a theatre performance at Beneath 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: Beneath
Beneath 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: £10 - £15
Age Guidance: 12+
Content Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, More information Reference to colonial violence, execution, infanticide, gender oppression.
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.Kanpur: 1857 represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.
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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API
