Luscinia

Luscinia

Ars LongaSemi-professional company

60 minutesMain Space
Bear your testimony and watch your tongue! Luscinia brings Ovid’s Philomela and Procne myth to the American South at the height of the Great Depression. An upbeat folk-musical with a tragic end: this Gothic adaptation combines comedy and tragedy as sisters attempt to escape their fundamentalist cult. Who will sing when you’ve lost your voice? And who will save you when the Gods won’t? The girls will have to navigate their love and hate for the charismatic preacher, Bo, and decide if salvation and freedom can be found in the same man.

About Ars Longa

Luscinia is a 60-minute folk musical theatre piece by Ars Longa, performed at the Main Space. The show transplants Ovid's myth of Philomela and Procne to the American South at the height of the Great Depression. Described as an upbeat folk-musical with a tragic end, this Gothic adaptation blends comedy and tragedy as two sisters attempt to escape their fundamentalist cult. The central question — who will sing when you've lost your voice, and who will save you when the Gods won't — drives the sisters' struggle against the charismatic preacher Bo, as they weigh salvation against freedom. Suitable for audiences aged 14 and over.

Why see this show?

Ovid's darkest myth relocated to Great Depression-era American South and staged as a Gothic folk musical — the tonal collision alone is worth the ticket. Ars Longa take on something ambitious and the result promises to be genuinely distinctive.

Event Details

Friday 7 - Friday 28 August 2026

All performances at 19:45

10 performances

60 minutes

7 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Ticket Price

£12 (10)

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

What is the age guidance?

The show is suitable for audiences aged 14 and over.

Are there content warnings?

Yes, the show contains distressing or potentially triggering themes and scenes of violence.

Where is the show performed?

The show takes place at the Main Space.

How much are tickets?

Tickets are £12. See the booking link on this page for current ticket prices.

About This Theatre Production

Luscinia is a theatre performance at Main Space 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: Main Space

Main Space 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: 14+

Content Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Scenes of violence

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.Luscinia represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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