MUSE: The Shakespeare Mayhem Musical

MUSE: The Shakespeare Mayhem Musical

MuseProfessional company

60 minutesCowbarn
Before he was the Bard, he was just Will… with a problem: his publisher will only print one of his plays. With Puck as instigator, Lear, Cleopatra, the Macbeths and more of Shakespeare’s greatest characters erupt into rebellion in a chaotic race to become the chosen tale. Pop musical comedy meets absurdist theatre in this riotous story of ambition, ego and the birth of a legend.

About Muse

MUSE: The Shakespeare Mayhem Musical is a 60-minute pop musical comedy from the professional company Muse, performed at Cowbarn as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Set before Shakespeare became the Bard, the story follows a young Will faced with a publisher who will only print one of his plays. With Puck as instigator, characters including Lear, Cleopatra and the Macbeths erupt into rebellion in a race to become the chosen tale. Tickets start at £11 and the show is suitable for ages 8 and over.

Why see this show?

Shakespeare's greatest characters staging a mutiny to get published is a brilliantly daft premise. Pop music, absurdist comedy and theatrical chaos combine in a 60-minute family-friendly hour at Cowbarn.

Event Details

Wednesday 5 - Sunday 30 August 2026

All performances at 15:40

25 performances

60 minutes

Cowbarn

Teviot Place

View on map

10 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Ticket Price

£11

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the show about?

Before Shakespeare was the Bard, his publisher will only print one play — so characters including Puck, Lear, Cleopatra and the Macbeths rebel in a chaotic race to become the chosen tale.

How long does the show run?

60 minutes.

Where is it performed?

At Cowbarn, Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

How much are tickets?

Tickets start at £11.

What is the age guidance?

Suitable for ages 8 and over.

What style is the show?

It is a pop musical comedy blending absurdist theatre and musical theatre.

About This Music Performance

MUSE: The Shakespeare Mayhem Musical is a musicals and opera performance at Cowbarn 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.

Enjoy live music in Edinburgh's atmospheric venues. From intimate acoustic sets to full band performances, each show offers a unique musical experience.

Venue: Cowbarn

Cowbarn 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

  • Standing venues - arrive early for best spots
  • Check if seats are unreserved or allocated
  • Some venues allow drinks in the performance space
  • Merchandise often available after the show

Booking Information

Ticket Prices: £11 - £15.5

Age Guidance: 8+

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.MUSE: The Shakespeare Mayhem Musical represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

Looking for more musicals and opera shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?

Browse all Musicals and Opera shows →

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API