An Island of Bad Ideas: The Tempest

An Island of Bad Ideas: The Tempest

Edinburgh Youth TheatreStudent/Youth company

Google Edinburgh Youth Theatre
50 minutesLower Theatre
A fast, funny Tempest packed with magic, mischief and spectacularly poor decisions. Edinburgh Youth Theatre returns with a bold 50-minute adaptation performed by a brilliant young ensemble. Critically acclaimed for hugely entertaining, fast-paced, relevant productions that are accessible to audiences aged 8 to 108, the youth company brings shipwrecks, scheming nobles, mischievous spirits and one very chaotic island to life. Expect physical comedy, a foot stomping soundtrack and a storm of bad choices as power, revenge and forgiveness spiral hilariously out of control. Perfect for families, Shakespeare connoisseurs and newcomers alike.

About the show

An Island of Bad Ideas: The Tempest is a 50-minute adaptation of Shakespeare's The Tempest, performed by Edinburgh Youth Theatre at the Lower Theatre as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. A young ensemble brings shipwrecks, scheming nobles, mischievous spirits, and one very chaotic island to life, with physical comedy, a foot-stomping soundtrack, and a storm of bad choices involving power, revenge, and forgiveness. Fast, funny, and described as accessible to audiences aged 8 to 108, the show is suitable for families, Shakespeare enthusiasts, and those new to the play alike. Tickets are £14.

Why see this show?

Shakespeare done fast, funny, and physically by a young ensemble — a Tempest that earns its chaos rather than just playing at it. The premise (spectacularly poor decisions) sets the tone perfectly and the show delivers on it.

Tickets

£14 (11)

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When

Friday 7 - Tuesday 11 August 2026

All performances at 12:50

5 performances

Duration

50 mins

Cast

16 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Venue
Lower Theatre

Niddry Street

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

An Island of Bad Ideas: The Tempest runs for 50 minutes.

How much are tickets?

Tickets are £14, with concessions available at £11.

What age is the show suitable for?

The show is recommended for audiences aged 8 and over, and is described as accessible to audiences aged 8 to 108.

Are there any content warnings?

No content warnings are listed for this show.

Where is the show performed?

The show takes place at the Lower Theatre as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Is it suitable for families?

Yes — the show is described as perfect for families, Shakespeare connoisseurs, and newcomers alike.

About This Theatre Production

An Island of Bad Ideas: The Tempest is a theatre performance at Lower Theatre during Edinburgh Festival 2026. 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: Lower Theatre

Lower 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: From £14

Age Guidance: 8+

Content Warnings: None

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.An Island of Bad Ideas: The Tempest represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API