Karine Polwart: Windblown

Karine Polwart: Windblown

Presented by Raw MaterialProfessional company

60 minutesQueen's Hall
Too old and unsteady to move, too vulnerable to survive on its own, the lofty Sabal palm of Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Garden reflects on two hundred years of containment, dislocation and human care, as it outgrows its 19th century glasshouse home and approaches its chainsaw demise, making way for a new conservation research facility. Award-winning writer-musician Karine Polwart imagines the poetic and musical voice of the old Sabal itself, in an exploration of historical legacies, ecological loss, collective ritual and the multi-generational promise of gardens. With acclaimed pianist Dave Milligan. “***** A spellbinding storyteller” (Irish Times). MadeInScotlandShowcase.com

About the show

Presented by Raw Material at the Queen's Hall, Karine Polwart: Windblown gives voice to the lofty Sabal palm of Edinburgh's Royal Botanic Garden — a tree that has spent two hundred years in containment, outgrowing its nineteenth-century glasshouse home and now facing its chainsaw demise as it makes way for a new conservation research facility. Writer-musician Karine Polwart imagines the poetic and musical voice of the old Sabal itself, exploring historical legacies, ecological loss, collective ritual and the multi-generational promise of gardens. Acclaimed pianist Dave Milligan joins her.

Why see this show?

An unusual and genuinely moving performance that gives a two-hundred-year-old tree its own voice. Karine Polwart and Dave Milligan weave music, poetry and ecological grief into something quietly unforgettable.

Event Details

Saturday 9 - Wednesday 13 August 2025

All performances at 19:30

5 performances

60 minutes

Queen's Hall

85-89 Clerk Street

View on map

2 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025

Ticket Price

£38 (35)

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Windblown?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

Where is it performed?

Windblown is performed at the Queen's Hall as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

What is the age guidance?

The show is recommended for audiences aged 12 and above.

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets are £38 (with a concession rate of £35). See the booking link on this page for current availability.

What kind of show is it?

It is a Theatre show combining music and storytelling, presented by Raw Material.

Are there any content warnings?

No warnings are listed for this show.

About This Theatre Production

Karine Polwart: Windblown is a theatre performance at Queen's Hall 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: Queen's Hall

Queen's Hall 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 £38

Age Guidance: 12+

Content Warnings: None

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.Karine Polwart: Windblown represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

Looking for more theatre shows at Edinburgh Festival 2025?

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