Chestnuts

Chestnuts

Chestnuts Theatre CompanyProfessional company

50 minutesLime Studio
Teddy and Polly are lost, twenty-something queers flying from London to Shanghai for Niki, Polly's ex-girlfriend's funeral. This traditional mourning ritual celebrating Niki's life is on the same day as the Nanjing Massacre memorial (13th December). This brings up Teddy's own connection with the controversial historical figure, the "good Nazi in Nanjing", who has been haunting him since his breakup with his ex. Following these unresolved separations in death and misunderstandings in life, Chestnuts tells a story about friendship, migration, queer identity, relationship across cultures, feeling like an outsider and searching for peace when it never truly existed.

About the show

Chestnuts follows Teddy and Polly, two lost twenty-something queers flying from London to Shanghai for the funeral of Niki, Polly's ex-girlfriend. The traditional mourning ritual celebrating Niki's life falls on the same day as the Nanjing Massacre memorial, the thirteenth of December — a date that brings up Teddy's own connection to the controversial historical figure known as the 'good Nazi in Nanjing'. Presented by Chestnuts Theatre Company, the show explores friendship, migration, queer identity, relationships across cultures and searching for peace. It runs for 50 minutes at the Lime Studio and is suitable for ages 14 and over.

Why see this show?

A quietly ambitious piece of drama that brings together grief, history, queer identity and cultural dislocation into one intimate story. Chestnuts Theatre Company explore the spaces between people — and between cultures — with real care.

Event Details

Friday 7 - Saturday 29 August 2026

All performances at 15:00

21 performances

50 minutes

Lime Studio

The Royal Society of Edinburgh, 22-26 George Street

View on map

3 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Ticket Price

£12 (8)

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

The show runs for 50 minutes.

Where is it performed?

Chestnuts is performed at the Lime Studio.

What is the age guidance?

This show is suitable for ages 14 and over.

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets are £12 (£8 concession). See the booking link on this page for current ticket prices.

Are there content warnings?

Yes — the show contains distressing or potentially triggering themes.

What themes does the show explore?

The show explores friendship, migration, queer identity, relationships across cultures, feeling like an outsider and searching for peace.

About This Theatre Production

Chestnuts is a theatre performance at Lime Studio 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: Lime Studio

Lime Studio 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 £12

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.Chestnuts 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