Dickens: The Readings

Dickens: The Readings

Assembly FestivalProfessional company

60 minutesStudio One
'There is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humour.' Dickens knew it then. We're counting on it now. Over 150 years since Charles Dickens last stood on an Edinburgh stage for his legendary Public Readings, now, his greatest works return – alive, unfiltered and different every day. Each performance pairs a fresh Dickens text with a Fringe performer: well-known faces, a surprise or two and the electric uncertainty of a story meeting its teller. You know his greatest stories but along with them there are so many more.

About Assembly Festival

Dickens: The Readings is a 60-minute storytelling theatre show at Studio One, presented by Assembly Festival. Over 150 years since Charles Dickens last stood on an Edinburgh stage for his Public Readings, this production revives the tradition with a fresh Dickens text paired with a different Fringe performer each performance. Well-known faces, surprises and the electric uncertainty of a story meeting its teller characterise each show. No two performances are the same. Suitable for 12 and over, tickets from £12.

Why see this show?

Each performance is different — a fresh Dickens text, a different Fringe performer, and the genuine unpredictability of a story meeting its teller for the first time. Over 150 years since Dickens last read in Edinburgh, this is the tradition brought back to life at Studio One.

Event Details

Thursday 6 - Sunday 30 August 2026

All performances at 14:50

22 performances

60 minutes

22 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Ticket Price

£12

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the show run?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

What is the age guidance?

The show is suitable for audiences aged 12 and over.

How much are tickets?

Tickets are from £12.

Where does the show take place?

The show takes place at Studio One.

Is every performance the same?

No. Each performance pairs a fresh Dickens text with a different Fringe performer, so the show is different every day.

About This Theatre Production

Dickens: The Readings is a theatre performance at Studio One 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: Studio One

Studio One 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 - £18

Age Guidance: 12+

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.Dickens: The Readings represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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