The Provocateurs: Power Cuts / Robot Romance

The Provocateurs: Power Cuts / Robot Romance

The Provocateurs / The Stand Comedy ClubSemi-professional company

Google The Provocateurs / The Stand Comedy Club
60 minutesStand 4
Hosted by comedian Susan Morrison. Dr Lars Schewe (The University of Edinburgh) is applying maths to prevent power cuts – by switching off powerlines. He also wants to close roads to alleviate traffic jams and turn off pipes to improve gas and water supplies! Franziska Heck (Edinburgh Napier University) explores the ethics and absurdity of artificial love and addictive chatbot relationships.

About the show

Hosted by comedian Susan Morrison, The Provocateurs: Power Cuts / Robot Romance brings together two academics for an evening of spoken word at Stand 4. Dr Lars Schewe from The University of Edinburgh applies mathematics to prevent power cuts — including the counterintuitive idea of switching off powerlines to prevent them — and proposes closing roads to ease traffic jams and turning off pipes to improve supplies. Franziska Heck from Edinburgh Napier University then explores the ethics and absurdity of artificial love and addictive chatbot relationships. Running 60 minutes, suitable for ages 14 and above.

Why see this show?

Two genuinely surprising ideas — preventing power cuts by switching off power lines, and falling in love with chatbots — presented with wit by researchers who actually study these things. Susan Morrison keeps the evening grounded.

Tickets

£12 (10)

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When

Wednesday 20 August 2025

All performances at 17:40

Duration

60 mins

Cast

3 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025

Venue
Stand 4

28 York Place

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Additional Information

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 above.

Who are the speakers?

Dr Lars Schewe from The University of Edinburgh speaks on power and infrastructure maths, and Franziska Heck from Edinburgh Napier University discusses the ethics of artificial love and chatbot relationships. The evening is hosted by comedian Susan Morrison.

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets are £12. Concessions are available. See the booking link on this page for current ticket prices.

Are there any content warnings?

No content warnings are listed for this show.

Where is it performed?

The show takes place at Stand 4 as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

About This Performance

The Provocateurs: Power Cuts / Robot Romance is a spoken word performance at Stand 4 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 the magic of live performance at Edinburgh Festival. Each show offers something unique and memorable.

Venue: Stand 4

Stand 4 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

  • Read recent reviews for audience reactions
  • Check venue accessibility if needed
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  • Download venue apps for digital tickets

Booking Information

Ticket Prices: From £12

Age Guidance: 14+

Content Warnings: None

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 Provocateurs: Power Cuts / Robot Romance represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

Looking for more spoken word shows at Edinburgh Festival 2025?

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