If I Can't Dance I'm Not Coming
Karl Jay-Lewin and Matteo Fargion • Professional company
About Karl Jay-Lewin and Matteo Fargion
If I Can't Dance I'm Not Coming is a 60-minute contemporary dance show from choreographer Karl Jay-Lewin and composer Matteo Fargion, performed at DB 1 on the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The piece reframes Fritz Lang's masterpiece Metropolis, translating silent cinema into a rigorous choreographic score. Performed by an eclectic ensemble of eight, the work rejects virtuosity in favour of dignity, threading humour, rebellion and flashes of tenderness through a democratic creative process. The work extends Jay-Lewin and Fargion's Extremely series and resonates with quiet political force. Tickets are £14, suitable for ages 12 and over.
Why see this show?
A dance work that takes Metropolis as its starting point and builds something genuinely democratic from it — eight performers, no virtuosity, just dignity and precision. If you enjoy contemporary dance that has something to say and says it with restraint, this is one for the diary.
Tuesday 18 - Thursday 27 August 2026
All performances at 14:40
9 performances
60 minutes
8 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026
£14 (13)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The show runs for 60 minutes.
How much are tickets?
Tickets are priced at £14.
What is the age guidance?
The show is suitable for audiences aged 12 and over.
Where is the show performed?
The show takes place at DB 1 as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
What type of show is this?
It is a contemporary dance work for an ensemble of eight, created by choreographer Karl Jay-Lewin and composer Matteo Fargion, reframing Fritz Lang's Metropolis.
Are there any content warnings?
No content warnings are listed for this show.
About This Theatre Production
If I Can't Dance I'm Not Coming is a dance physical theatre and circus performance at DB 1 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: DB 1
DB 1 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: £14 - £15.5
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.If I Can't Dance I'm Not Coming represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.
Looking for more dance physical theatre and circus shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?
Browse all Dance Physical Theatre and Circus shows →Similar Events
Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API
