Mrs Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library

Mrs Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library

Luna Stage, Richard Jordan Productions in association with Traverse TheatreProfessional company

Google Luna Stage, Richard Jordan Productions in association with Traverse Theatre
80 minutesTraverse 2
1933 Berlin. With martial law in effect, political activism has become a capital crime. When a young Gestapo officer arrests a philosophy graduate student, her interrogation will endanger them both. Direct from its critically acclaimed Off-Broadway premiere, Jenny Lyn Bader’s new play – inspired by the real-life arrest of Hannah Arendt – illuminates the struggle for human connection and moral imagination in dark times. North American new writing theatre Luna Stage and Olivier, Tony and Emmy Award-winning producer Richard Jordan return to the Traverse following their 2025 Scotsman Fringe First sell-out production RIFT.

About the show

Mrs Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library is a new play by Jenny Lyn Bader, presented by Luna Stage and Richard Jordan Productions in association with Traverse Theatre, performed at Traverse 2. Set in Berlin in 1933, the play follows the arrest of a philosophy graduate student by a young Gestapo officer; their interrogation will endanger them both. The play is inspired by the real-life arrest of Hannah Arendt and explores the struggle for human connection and moral imagination in dark times. It arrives direct from its Off-Broadway premiere. The show runs for 80 minutes. Tickets start at £20.50 and it is suitable for ages 12 and above.

Why see this show?

A timely and gripping new play drawn from a real historical event — the arrest of Hannah Arendt — that explores how people retain moral imagination under martial law. Direct from Off-Broadway, performed at the Traverse, this is serious new writing at its most urgent.

Tickets

£20.50 (15.50)

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When

Thursday 6 - Sunday 30 August 2026

Weekdays at 10:15 & 12:45 & 15:15 & 18:00 & 20:30, Weekends at 10:15 & 12:45 & 15:15 & 18:00 & 20:30

22 performances

Duration

80 mins

Cast

3 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Venue
Traverse 2

10 Cambridge Street

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the play about?

Set in Berlin in 1933, it follows a young Gestapo officer who arrests a philosophy graduate student; their interrogation endangers them both. The play is inspired by the real-life arrest of Hannah Arendt.

How long is the show?

The show runs for 80 minutes.

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets start at £20.50, with a concession price of £15.50.

Where does it take place?

The show is at Traverse 2.

What is the age guidance?

The show is recommended for ages 12 and above.

Are there any content warnings?

Yes — the show contains loud noises, flashes of light, depictions of Gestapo interrogation and references to war and the Holocaust.

About This Theatre Production

Mrs Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library is a theatre performance at Traverse 2 during Edinburgh Festival 2026. Running for 80 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: Traverse 2

Traverse 2 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: £20.5 - £25.5

Age Guidance: 12+

Content Warnings: More information Contains loud noises, flashes of light, depictions of Gestapo interrogation and references to war/Holocaust.

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.Mrs Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API