About Trolley Problem
Nesting is a 60-minute darkly comic new play with an electrifying score from Trolley Problem, performed at Old Lab on the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Francis is caged in his home by devotion, duty and a devastating diagnosis. A seagull offers an escape: it will nest inside his body, take control and free his pregnant daughter from the burden of his care. But what begins as selfless sacrifice risks becoming violent surrender. The play is a visceral exploration of love, death and duty. Tickets are £10, and the show is suitable for audiences aged 12 and over. Content warnings include distressing themes, scenes of violence, strobe lighting and strong language.
Why see this show?
A new play that mixes the absurd and the genuinely moving — a seagull as a vessel for selfless love, a father choosing surrender as an act of care. Trolley Problem have built something darkly comic and emotionally resonant at Old Lab, well worth catching for anyone who likes their theatre to surprise them.
£10
Thursday 6 - Monday 31 August 2026
All performances at 16:30
24 performances
60 mins
4 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The show runs for 60 minutes.
How much are tickets?
Tickets are priced at £10.
What is the age guidance?
The show is suitable for audiences aged 12 and over.
Where is the show performed?
The show takes place at Old Lab as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Are there content warnings?
Yes — the show contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, scenes of violence, strobe lighting and strong language.
What type of show is this?
It is a new piece of dark comedy theatre with an original score, exploring themes of love, death and duty.
About This Theatre Production
Nesting is a theatre performance at Old Lab 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: Old Lab
Old Lab 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: £10 - £17
Age Guidance: 12+
Content Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Scenes of violence, Strobe lighting, Strong language/swearing
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.Nesting 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
