Helen Bradley: Painter and Storyteller
Kara Wilson • Semi-professional company
About Kara Wilson
Helen Bradley: Painter and Storyteller is a 55-minute theatre piece by semi-professional company Kara Wilson, performed at Cellar during Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026. Described as the sixth painter play Kara Wilson has written, she portrays Helen Bradley at work and completes an oil painting in Bradley's style during the show. Working with Bradley's family and drawing on verbatim stories and first-hand knowledge, the piece tells the life of Bradley (1900–1979), who achieved international recognition in her late sixties and produced bestselling picture books based on her Edwardian childhood. Tickets from £7. Age guidance: 12+.
Why see this show?
A live oil painting completed on stage while the story of the painter unfolds — Kara Wilson's sixth painter play draws on first-hand material from Helen Bradley's own family. A quiet, intimate and unusual form of theatre.
Wednesday 5 - Sunday 30 August 2026
All performances at 11:20
25 performances
55 minutes
1 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026
£7
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The show runs for 55 minutes.
How much do tickets cost?
Tickets start from £7.
What is the age guidance?
The show is suitable for ages 12 and over.
Where is the show performed?
The show takes place at Cellar.
What happens during the performance?
Kara Wilson portrays Helen Bradley at work, completing an oil painting in Bradley's style during the show while telling her story through verbatim stories and first-hand knowledge.
Who was Helen Bradley?
Helen Bradley (1900–1979) achieved international recognition in her late sixties and brought out bestselling picture books based on her Edwardian childhood.
About This Theatre Production
Helen Bradley: Painter and Storyteller is a theatre performance at Cellar 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: Cellar
Cellar 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: £7 - £13
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.Helen Bradley: Painter and Storyteller 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
