One Man Poe: The Tell-Tale Heart and The Pit and the Pendulum

One Man Poe: The Tell-Tale Heart and The Pit and the Pendulum

Threedumb TheatreProfessional company

Google Threedumb Theatre
60 minutesWillow Studio
A marathon of the macabre. Using the original Edgar Allan Poe text from the 1840s, award-winning storyteller Stephen Smith faithfully brings to life two of the most-terrifying examples of the gothic genre from the pioneering Godfather of Gothic Horror. In The Tell-Tale Heart, we meet a madman, trying his hardest to convince us of his sanity, whilst explaining the meticulous details of a murder he committed. Then, in The Pit and the Pendulum, we join a prisoner trying to escape the various torture devices of the Spanish Inquisition.

About the show

Threedumb Theatre presents One Man Poe at the Willow Studio, a 60-minute solo theatre show in which storyteller Stephen Smith brings to life two tales from Edgar Allan Poe, using the original text from the eighteen-forties. In The Tell-Tale Heart, a madman attempts to convince the audience of his sanity while recounting a murder. In The Pit and the Pendulum, a prisoner attempts to escape the torture devices of the Spanish Inquisition. This gothic horror double-bill contains distressing themes and is suitable for audiences aged 12 and over.

Why see this show?

Two of Poe's most chilling stories, performed solo with nothing but voice and atmosphere. A marathon of the macabre that stays faithful to the original texts — ideal for anyone who likes their Fringe dark and theatrical.

Tickets

£12.50

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When

Saturday 2 - Friday 22 August 2025

All performances at 18:35

10 performances

Duration

60 mins

Cast

1 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025

Venue
Willow Studio

322 Lawnmarket

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

Where is it performed?

One Man Poe is performed at Willow Studio.

What is the age guidance?

The show is suitable for audiences aged 12 and over.

How much are tickets?

Tickets are £12.50.

Are there any content warnings?

Yes — the show contains distressing or potentially triggering themes.

What stories are performed?

The show presents two Edgar Allan Poe stories: The Tell-Tale Heart and The Pit and the Pendulum, using the original text.

About This Theatre Production

One Man Poe: The Tell-Tale Heart and The Pit and the Pendulum 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: £12.5 - £15

Age Guidance: 12+

Content Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes

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.One Man Poe: The Tell-Tale Heart and The Pit and the Pendulum represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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