Lear's Fool

Lear's Fool

David Henry WilsonProfessional company

Google David Henry Wilson
60 minutesLime Studio
The riveting tale of what happened to the Fool, who mysteriously disappears halfway through Shakespeare’s tragedy. 'A gorgeous, lyrical and heartbreaking variation on the themes of Shakespeare’s play...' (Scotsman). 'David Henry Wilson’s one-act play is a self-contained, self-imagined work of genius' (GlasgowWestEndToday.scot). A brand-new production, directed by Liz Carruthers, following the sell-out production by Bard in the Botanics, for which Nicole Cooper was shortlisted for Performance of the Year at the Critics' Awards for Theatre in Scotland. In this production, the Fool will be played by Jill Riddiford, who herself has twice been on the short list.

About David Henry Wilson

Lear's Fool is a one-act play by David Henry Wilson that explores what happened to the Fool, who mysteriously vanishes halfway through Shakespeare's tragedy King Lear. A brand-new production directed by Liz Carruthers, it is a self-contained reimagining of one of theatre's great disappearing acts. In this production, the Fool is played by Jill Riddiford, who has twice been shortlisted for major performance awards in Scotland. The show runs 60 minutes and is performed at Lime Studio at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Why see this show?

A lyrical and heartbreaking take on one of Shakespeare's most enigmatic characters, this tightly crafted one-act play invites you to imagine what became of the Fool after the curtain of tragedy falls. A rare chance to see a freshly staged production with a celebrated performer in the lead role.

Tickets

£12 (10)

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When

Friday 7 - Saturday 22 August 2026

All performances at 13:45

15 performances

Duration

60 mins

Cast

4 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Venue
Lime Studio

The Royal Society of Edinburgh, 22-26 George Street

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the show run?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

Where is it performed?

Lear's Fool is performed at Lime Studio, Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

What is the age guidance?

The show is suitable for ages 12 and above.

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets are £12, with a concession price of £10.

Are there any content warnings?

No content warnings are listed for this production.

What is the show about?

The show imagines the fate of King Lear's Fool, who disappears halfway through Shakespeare's original tragedy, presented as a self-contained one-act play.

About This Theatre Production

Lear's Fool is a theatre performance at Lime Studio 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: Lime Studio

Lime Studio 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 £12

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.Lear's Fool 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