Heracles: Of Men and Beasts
By The Barden Party • Professional company
Google The Barden PartyAbout The Barden Party
Heracles: Of Men and Beasts is the international premiere of an original folk musical from The Barden Party, a New Zealand theatre company, performed at Upper Theatre (Round). The show sheds new light on the mythological figure of Heracles — his struggle with his darker self and his fraught relationship with Hera, Queen of the Gods. Four characters explore who we are when no one is watching. Greek folklore is blended with a nineteen-forties Hollywood aesthetic through live-looping, where one musician creates the sound of a full band. A cast album featuring ten original songs is available on streaming platforms.
Why see this show?
An inventive folk musical that asks timeless questions through Greek myth — the live-looping technique gives one musician the sound of a full band, and the nineteen-forties Hollywood aesthetic adds a striking visual layer. Suitable from age 8, it works for a broad audience.
£10 (9)
Monday 17 - Saturday 29 August 2026
All performances at 12:30
12 performances
60 mins
4 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The show runs for 60 minutes.
Where is it performed?
The show is at Upper Theatre (Round), Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
What age is it suitable for?
The show is suitable for ages 8 and over.
How much do tickets cost?
Tickets are £10.
What kind of show is this?
It is an original folk musical theatre piece drawing on Greek mythology, featuring live-looping by a single musician.
Are there any content warnings?
No content warnings are listed for this show.
About This Music Performance
Heracles: Of Men and Beasts is a musicals and opera performance at Upper Theatre (Round) 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.
Enjoy live music in Edinburgh's atmospheric venues. From intimate acoustic sets to full band performances, each show offers a unique musical experience.
Venue: Upper Theatre (Round)
Upper Theatre (Round) 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
- •Standing venues - arrive early for best spots
- •Check if seats are unreserved or allocated
- •Some venues allow drinks in the performance space
- •Merchandise often available after the show
Booking Information
Ticket Prices: £10 - £11
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.Heracles: Of Men and Beasts represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.
Looking for more musicals and opera shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?
Browse all Musicals and Opera shows →Similar events
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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API
