Macbeth: Blood and Bluegrass

Macbeth: Blood and Bluegrass

The Barden PartyProfessional company

85 minutesGrand Theatre
Critically acclaimed, highly original adaptation of the Bard’s dark tale. Tragic yet uplifting, tender, raucous, poignant and high-energy. Set to a live score of Americana and bluegrass music, the multi-award-winning New Zealand troupe blend classic literature with a modern twist alongside original arrangements of Mumford and Sons, Dolly Parton and The SteelDrivers, creating an emotional, accessible, toe-tapping theatrical experience. Winner Best Theatre Award Adelaide Fringe 2025. Received multiple five-star reviews Edinburgh Fringe 2025, including: 'Fantastically gifted team' ***** (TheatreWeekly.com), 'Macbeth as you’ve never seen it before' ***** (MusicalTheatreReview.com), 'Bravo' ***** (TheWeeReview.com).

About The Barden Party

Macbeth: Blood and Bluegrass is an adaptation of Shakespeare's dark tale by New Zealand troupe The Barden Party. Set to a live score of Americana and bluegrass music, the production blends classic literature with original arrangements of songs by Mumford and Sons, Dolly Parton and The SteelDrivers. The show is described as tragic yet uplifting, tender, raucous, poignant and high-energy. It runs for 85 minutes at Grand Theatre, is suitable for ages 8 and over, and carries warnings for distressing themes and strong language in keeping with the original Shakespeare play.

Why see this show?

Shakespeare's darkest play reimagined with live bluegrass and Americana music — The Barden Party make the Bard genuinely accessible and toe-tappingly entertaining. An 85-minute theatrical experience at Grand Theatre that works for families and adults alike.

Event Details

Friday 7 - Saturday 29 August 2026

All performances at 15:55

20 performances

85 minutes

Grand Theatre

Surgeons Quarter, Nicolson Street

View on map

7 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Ticket Price

£12.50 (10)

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

The show runs for 85 minutes.

Where is it performed?

Macbeth: Blood and Bluegrass is at Grand Theatre.

What is the age guidance?

The show is suitable for audiences aged 8 and over.

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets are £12.50, with a concession price of £10.

Are there content warnings?

The show contains distressing or potentially triggering themes and strong language, in keeping with the original Shakespeare play.

What type of show is this?

It is a theatre production in the Music and Folk categories, featuring live Americana and bluegrass music.

About This Theatre Production

Macbeth: Blood and Bluegrass is a theatre performance at Grand Theatre during Edinburgh Festival 2026. Running for 85 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: Grand Theatre

Grand Theatre 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: £12.5 - £13.5

Age Guidance: 8+

Content Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Strong language/swearing Some language and strong themes in line with the original Shakespeare play.

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.Macbeth: Blood and Bluegrass represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

Looking for more theatre shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?

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