About fish in a dress
International theatre collective fish in a dress present this devised theatre piece at Upstairs as part of Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Set in a Paris psychiatric hospital during the eighteen-eighties, female patients performed hysteria for the public while doctors went to extraordinary lengths to prove their theories about the four stages of madness. The show follows the thread of the history of hysteria and invites the audience to become complicit in a tale of medical misogyny. It runs for 60 minutes and includes content warnings around mental health and sexual violence.
Why see this show?
A sharp, provocative piece about medical misogyny that implicates the audience in its own storytelling. fish in a dress bring international theatre-making rigour to a subject that still resonates.
£10
Wednesday 30 July - Monday 25 August 2025
All performances at 13:35
25 performances
60 mins
1 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The show runs for 60 minutes.
What is the age guidance?
This show is suitable for audiences aged 14 and over.
How much are tickets?
Tickets start from £10.
Where is it performed?
The show takes place at Upstairs.
Are there content warnings?
Yes — the show contains references to emotional abuse, mental health, misogyny, sexual violence and sexism. It also includes the burning of sage incense and loud noises.
What type of show is it?
It is a devised LGBTQ+ theatre piece rooted in the history of hysteria.
About This Theatre Production
The City for Incurable Women is a theatre performance at Upstairs 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: Upstairs
Upstairs 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: £10 - £15
Age Guidance: 14+
Content Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Strong language/swearing, More information Contains references to emotional abuse, mental health, misogyny, sexual violence and sexism. This show includes the burning of sage incense and loud noises.
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 City for Incurable Women represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.
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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API
