Atomic Tales
Elena Arvigo / Rhymes with Purple • Professional company
Google Elena Arvigo / Rhymes with PurpleAtomic Tales
By Elena Arvigo / Rhymes with Purple • Professional company
Google Elena Arvigo / Rhymes with PurpleAbout the show
Atomic Tales is a 60-minute solo verbatim theatre show at Playground 1, performed by Elena Arvigo via Rhymes with Purple. Set against the Chernobyl nuclear power plant explosion of 26 April 1986, the show explores the deeply human side of the tragedy through the memories of Lyudmila, the wife of a firefighter. Her words are drawn from Prayer for Chernobyl by Svetlana Alexievich. The piece focuses not on a reconstruction of events but of emotions. Tickets from £13, suitable for ages 12 and above.
Why see this show?
A solo verbatim performance drawn from Svetlana Alexievich's writing, centred on the emotional memory of one woman rather than the historical disaster. Intimate, grounded in real words, and performed at Playground 1.
£13 (11)
Friday 7 - Sunday 30 August 2026
All performances at 15:15
23 performances
60 mins
1 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Atomic Tales about?
The show explores the human side of the Chernobyl disaster through the memories of Lyudmila, the wife of a firefighter. Her words are drawn from Prayer for Chernobyl by Svetlana Alexievich. It focuses on emotions rather than a reconstruction of events.
When did the Chernobyl explosion occur, according to the show?
The show is set around 26 April 1986, when the Chernobyl nuclear power plant exploded in Ukraine.
How long is the show?
The show runs for 60 minutes.
Where is it performed?
It is performed at Playground 1 as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
How much are tickets?
Tickets start at £13, with a concession price of £11.
Is there an age requirement?
The show is suitable for ages 12 and above. It contains distressing or potentially triggering themes.
About This Theatre Production
Atomic Tales is a theatre performance at Playground 1 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: Playground 1
Playground 1 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: £12 - £13
Age Guidance: 12+
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.Atomic Tales 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
