CQD to SOS: A Titanic Story

CQD to SOS: A Titanic Story

Edinburgh Rep / Erstwhile MediaSemi-professional company

Google Edinburgh Rep / Erstwhile Media
55 minutesWillow Studio
It's 12:15AM, April 15th, 1912. Titanic has hit an iceberg. In approximately two hours, over 2,000 people will be in the freezing water of the Atlantic Ocean, with survival counted in minutes. Their lives depend on three men – Titanic radio operators Jack Phillips and Harold Bride, and Carpathia radio operator Harold Cottam – and the radio set that broke the day before. Fate has placed Phillips, Bride and Cottam, three working men doing a job, at the centre of one of the biggest peace-time tragedies of the twentieth century.

About the show

Edinburgh Rep and Erstwhile Media present this new piece of historical theatre set aboard the Titanic. The story centres on three working men — Titanic radio operators Jack Phillips and Harold Bride, and Carpathia radio operator Harold Cottam — whose actions in the early hours of April the fifteenth, 1912 determined the fate of thousands. The ship has struck an iceberg, and with over two thousand people at risk and a radio set that broke the day before, the three men are placed at the heart of one of the biggest peacetime tragedies of the twentieth century. The show runs for 55 minutes at Willow Studio and is suitable for ages 8 and over.

Why see this show?

A tightly focused drama that finds the human story inside a famous disaster. By centring three ordinary workers rather than the grand narrative, it makes the stakes feel personal and immediate.

Tickets

£15 (13)

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When

Monday 17 - Saturday 22 August 2026

All performances at 17:30

6 performances

Duration

55 mins

Cast

3 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Venue
Willow Studio

322 Lawnmarket

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

The show runs for 55 minutes.

Where is it performed?

The show takes place at Willow Studio.

What is the age guidance?

The show is suitable for ages 8 and over.

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets are £15, with concessions at £13.

Are there any content warnings?

None listed.

What type of show is this?

It is a new piece of historical theatre focusing on the radio operators whose actions shaped events during the sinking of the Titanic.

About This Theatre Production

CQD to SOS: A Titanic Story is a theatre performance at Willow Studio during Edinburgh Festival 2026. Running for 55 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: Willow Studio

Willow 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 £15

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.CQD to SOS: A Titanic Story represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API