Lost Lear
Matt Smyth, Riverbank Arts Centre and Mermaid Arts Centre • Professional company
Google Matt Smyth, Riverbank Arts Centre and Mermaid Arts CentreLost Lear
By Matt Smyth, Riverbank Arts Centre and Mermaid Arts Centre • Professional company
Google Matt Smyth, Riverbank Arts Centre and Mermaid Arts CentreAbout the show
Lost Lear is a moving and darkly comic remix of Shakespeare's King Lear, told from the point of view of Joy, a person with dementia who is living in an old memory of rehearsing the play. Her estranged son arrives and, cast as Cordelia, must find a way to speak his piece within the limited role he is given. Created by Matt Smyth with Riverbank Arts Centre and Mermaid Arts Centre, the production uses puppetry, projection and live video effects. It runs 75 minutes at Traverse 1, is suitable for ages 14 and over, and tickets start from £20.
Why see this show?
Shakespeare refracted through the lens of dementia is a striking formal choice that earns its emotional weight here. Puppetry, projection and live video place the audience inside Joy's layered, distorted world in a thought-provoking meditation on theatre, memory and family.
£20 (15)
Sunday 27 July - Sunday 24 August 2025
Weekdays at 10:00 & 13:15 & 14:00 & 16:15 & 17:30 & 19:15, Weekends at 10:00 & 10:30 & 13:15 & 14:00 & 16:15 & 19:15 & 19:30 & 21:30
21 performances
75 mins
5 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lost Lear about?
It retells King Lear from the perspective of Joy, a person with dementia living in an old memory of rehearsing the play, as her estranged son arrives and must find a way to communicate within the role of Cordelia.
How long is the show?
The show runs for 75 minutes.
What techniques does the production use?
The production uses puppetry, projection and live video effects.
What are the content warnings?
The show contains strobe lighting and flashing lights, and explores themes of dementia and Alzheimer's.
What is the age guidance?
The show is suitable for ages 14 and over.
How much are tickets?
Tickets start from £20, with a concession price of £15.
About This Theatre Production
Lost Lear is a theatre performance at Traverse 1 during Edinburgh Festival 2025. Running for 75 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: Traverse 1
Traverse 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: £20 - £25
Age Guidance: 14+
Content Warnings: Strobe lighting, More information Contains strobe, flashing lights and themes of dementia & Alzheimer's.
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.Lost Lear 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
