The Burns Project
James Clements • Professional company
About James Clements
The Burns Project is an immersive theatrical experience performed by Scottish performer James Clements at the Drawing Room. Given unprecedented access to Robert Burns' private letters, the production explores the man behind the legend in all his brilliance and contradictions. Blending letters, poems and live music from the archives, audiences experience Burns unfiltered. The show is co-created with The National Trust for Scotland and Fringe director Cora Bissett, known for June Carter: The Woman, Her Music, and Me, and What Girls Are Made Of.
Why see this show?
A rare chance to encounter Burns through his own private letters rather than the familiar myths — intimate, musical and performed at the Drawing Room. Suitable for ages 14 and over, running 60 minutes. Content includes discussion of gender, race and sexual situations.
Saturday 2 - Saturday 16 August 2025
All performances at 18:30
13 performances
60 minutes
2 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025
£15 (9)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The show runs for 60 minutes.
What is the age guidance?
Suitable for ages 14 and over.
Are there any content warnings?
The show contains strong language and swearing. It includes direct and indirect discussion of gender, race, sexual situations and enslaved people. No latecomers will be permitted after a certain point and no readmission is possible if audience members leave the performance.
What type of performance is this?
It is a historical verbatim theatre piece blending letters, poetry and live music.
What are the ticket prices?
Tickets are £15 (with a concession rate also available). See the booking link on this page for current details.
Who created the show?
The show is performed by James Clements and co-created with The National Trust for Scotland, directed by Cora Bissett.
About This Theatre Production
The Burns Project is a theatre performance at Drawing Room 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: Drawing Room
Drawing Room 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 £15
Age Guidance: 14+
Content Warnings: Strong language/swearing, More information This piece includes direct and indirect discussion of gender, race, sexual situations and enslaved people. Please note, no latecomers will be permitted after a certain point and no readmission will be possible if audience members leave the performance
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.The Burns Project 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
