About the show
Rattlepole! is an improvised theatre and comedy show by UCL Shakespeare Company at Olive Studio, Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Every performance is completely improvised Shakespeare — audiences choose tropes and the company sculpts an original plot on the iambic plane. A company of student actors perform dramatic swordfights, passionate love scenes, quick-witted wordplay and songs, while other cast members drink and wait to come on stage raucous and clumsy. Accompanied by live music, no two performances are the same. The show runs for 50 minutes, tickets are £12.50 (£9 concession), and is strictly for audiences aged 18 and over.
Why see this show?
A genuinely one-of-a-kind experience — completely improvised Shakespeare with live music, shaped by the audience's own choices. The UCL Shakespeare Company's raucous and clumsy approach makes for an unpredictable and entertaining 50 minutes at Olive Studio.
£12.50 (9)
Monday 4 - Friday 8 August 2025
All performances at 19:35
5 performances
50 mins
10 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the show run?
The show runs for 50 minutes.
How much do tickets cost?
Tickets are £12.50, with a concession price of £9.
Where is the show performed?
At Olive Studio, Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Is there an age restriction?
The show is strictly for audiences aged 18 and over.
Does the show involve audience participation?
Yes — audiences choose tropes and help shape the original plot.
Are there any content warnings?
Due to the improvised nature of the production, viewer discretion is advised. The show may contain scenes of a sexual nature, scenes of violence, strong language/swearing and potentially distressing themes.
About This Theatre Production
Rattlepole! is a theatre performance at Olive Studio during Edinburgh Festival 2025. Running for 50 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: Olive Studio
Olive 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: From £12.5
Age Guidance: 18+
Content Warnings: Audience participation, Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Scenes of a sexual nature, Scenes of violence, Strong language/swearing, More information Due to the improvised nature of the production, viewer discretion is advised.
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.Rattlepole! 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
