Crash Course

Crash Course

Mermaids at the FringeStudent/Youth company

Google Mermaids at the Fringe
50 minutesThistle Theatre
After too many romantic offences cost them their Dating Licence, Charlie is sent to the Last Chance Programme – a rehabilitation course for heartbreakers. Under the Intimacy Coordinator's strict supervision, Charlie is paired with Lou, an unlikely acquaintance. Together, they must pass a series of bizarre relational-exercises to earn one final shot at love. As the Insurance Office tracks every emotional leakage, Charlie and Lou begin to discover each other beyond the framework meant to contain them. Blending institutional logic with painfully human interactions, Crash Course is a fast-paced, absurd comedy about risk-free intimacy and what it costs.

About Mermaids at the Fringe

Crash Course is a 50-minute absurd comedy from Mermaids at the Fringe, a Student/Youth company, performed at Thistle Theatre at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The play follows Charlie, who has lost their Dating Licence due to too many romantic offences and is sent to the Last Chance Programme — a rehabilitation course for heartbreakers. Paired with Lou under the supervision of an Intimacy Coordinator and overseen by an Insurance Office, the two must complete bizarre relational-exercises to earn a final shot at love. The show blends institutional logic with painfully human interactions. Suitable for ages 14 and over. Tickets are £9.

Why see this show?

A sharp-edged absurdist comedy about bureaucratic intimacy — Dating Licences, Insurance Offices and relational-exercises — that finds genuine warmth in the strange setup. A well-crafted new writing piece for £9.

Tickets

£9 (7)

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When

Monday 17 - Saturday 22 August 2026

All performances at 12:40

6 performances

Duration

50 mins

Cast

4 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Venue
Thistle Theatre

322 Lawnmarket

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

The show runs for 50 minutes.

Where is it performed?

The show takes place at Thistle Theatre.

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets are £9.

What is the age guidance?

The show is suitable for ages 14 and over.

What content warnings apply?

The show contains distressing or potentially triggering themes including romantic relationships, heartbreak, emotional vulnerability, depictions of arrest and institutional authority, and references to emotional harm and rejection.

What is the show about?

The show follows Charlie, who has lost their Dating Licence and is enrolled in a rehabilitation course where they are paired with Lou and must complete bizarre relational-exercises to earn one final shot at love.

About This Theatre Production

Crash Course is a theatre performance at Thistle 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: Thistle Theatre

Thistle 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 £9

Age Guidance: 14+

Content Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes Themes of romantic relationships, heartbreak, and emotional vulnerability. Depictions of arrest and institutional authority. Close physical proximity between performers. References to emotional harm, rejection, and relational conflict.

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.Crash Course represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API