Our Martin in the Background

Our Martin in the Background

Mark KyddProfessional company

England, 1945. The lives of two strangers are changed forever by a chance meeting at a railway station. But this isn't Brief Encounter... We're all extras in the lives of others, but the stars of our own. What happens when you pan the camera away from the leading players? Mark Kydd’s new solo show turns the spotlight onto a supporting artist with his own surprising tale of first, forbidden love. In the year of Brief Encounter's 80th anniversary, Our Martin in the Background is the queer love story Noël Coward didn't write.

About Mark Kydd

Our Martin in the Background is a new solo show by Mark Kydd, a professional company, performed at the George Mackay Brown Library. Set in England in 1945, the show tells the story of two strangers whose lives are changed forever by a chance encounter at a railway station — but unlike the classic film Brief Encounter, the camera pans to a supporting character with his own tale of first, forbidden love. A queer love story deliberately not written by Noël Coward, this 60-minute show carries age guidance of 14+ and features sex references that are discussed rather than portrayed.

Why see this show?

A quietly radical solo show that finds a rich queer love story in the margins of a familiar setting. Thoughtful, intimate theatre with a genuinely original angle on 1945 England.

Event Details

Sunday 17 - Monday 25 August 2025

All performances at 15:45

5 performances

60 minutes

1 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025

Ticket Price

£14 (12)

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

Our Martin in the Background runs for 60 minutes.

What age is it suitable for?

The show is recommended for audiences aged 14 and over.

Where does it take place?

It is performed at George Mackay Brown Library as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Are there any content warnings?

The show contains sex references, which are discussed and described rather than portrayed.

What type of show is it?

It is a solo LGBTQ+ theatre show in the Theatre category.

How much are tickets?

Tickets are £14 (concessions £12).

About This Theatre Production

Our Martin in the Background is a theatre performance at George Mackay Brown Library 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: George Mackay Brown Library

George Mackay Brown Library 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 £14

Age Guidance: 14+

Content Warnings: More information Sex references, discussed/described not portrayed.

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.Our Martin in the Background represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

Looking for more theatre shows at Edinburgh Festival 2025?

Browse all Theatre shows →

Similar Events

Loading similar events...

Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API