Adam Riches: The Captain

Adam Riches: The Captain

Park Theatre Productions and Tigco presentProfessional company

From the writer of Jimmy, the totally sold-out, smash-hit, one-man show of Summerhall 2024 – 'solo shows are ten a penny at the Edinburgh Fringe, but this feels like one in a million' ***** (Telegraph) – comes the true story of Captain Matthew Webb, the first man to ever swim the English Channel. The bravery! The fortitude! The sheer outright insanity! It's time to remember this most humble of men, this Shopshire lad, whose extraordinary feat ought to be far more celebrated than it is. A man who died as he lived, chasing the impossible.

About the show

Park Theatre Productions and Tigco present The Captain, a new one-man show written by the writer of Jimmy. It tells the true story of Captain Matthew Webb, the first man ever to swim the English Channel — a feat of bravery, fortitude and sheer insanity. Webb was a humble Shropshire lad whose extraordinary achievement, according to the show, ought to be far more celebrated than it is. A man who died as he lived, chasing the impossible. Running for 60 minutes at Anatomy Lecture Theatre, the show is suitable for audiences aged 14 and over.

Why see this show?

The true story of a man who swam the English Channel and whose extraordinary feat has been largely forgotten — told in a single-performer show that is passionate about setting the record straight. Moving and quietly astonishing.

Event Details

Thursday 6 - Monday 31 August 2026

All performances at 11:45

24 performances

60 minutes

1 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Ticket Price

£10

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

Where does the show take place?

The show takes place at Anatomy Lecture Theatre.

What is the age guidance?

The show is suitable for audiences aged 14 and over.

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets are £10.

What is the show about?

The Captain tells the true story of Captain Matthew Webb, the first man to ever swim the English Channel.

Are there any content warnings?

The show contains distressing or potentially triggering themes.

About This Theatre Production

Adam Riches: The Captain is a theatre performance at Anatomy Lecture Theatre during Edinburgh Festival 2026. 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: Anatomy Lecture Theatre

Anatomy Lecture Theatre 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 - £17

Age Guidance: 14+

Content Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes

Book early to avoid disappointment. Popular shows sell out quickly during Edinburgh Festival.

Part of Edinburgh Festival 2026

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.Adam Riches: The Captain represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

Looking for more theatre shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API