Nüshu: Written for Her, On Her, By Her
The Great Her (UK/China) • Professional company
About the show
Nüshu: Written for Her, On Her, By Her is a solo multidisciplinary performance by The Great Her (UK/China), presented at a temple venue on the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Performer Jiayi Chen uses her body as a living scroll, inscribing ancient characters from Nüshu — the secret script of Chinese women — onto her skin with traditional ink. Weaving together live body calligraphy, contemporary dance and an original soundscape, the piece becomes a haunting altar of memory, grief and feminine resistance. A tribute to the missing women in Jiayi's life, it runs 40 minutes and is suitable for audiences aged 8 and over.
Why see this show?
A quietly powerful solo work that uses the body as both medium and message — live calligraphy, movement and original sound combined into a ritual of remembrance. An unusual and deeply felt piece of physical theatre.
Monday 17 - Sunday 30 August 2026
All performances at 14:00
14 performances
40 minutes
4 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026
£8 (4)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the show run?
The show runs for 40 minutes.
How much do tickets cost?
Tickets cost £8, with a concession price of £4.
Is there an age requirement?
The show is suitable for audiences aged 8 and over.
What is Nüshu?
Nüshu is described in the show as the secret script of Chinese women, and it forms the foundation of the performance.
What techniques does the show use?
The performer uses live body calligraphy — inscribing ancient characters onto her skin with traditional ink — alongside contemporary dance and an original soundscape.
Will the audience be invited to participate?
Yes — audience participation is listed as part of the show.
About This Theatre Production
Nüshu: Written for Her, On Her, By Her is a dance physical theatre and circus performance at temple during Edinburgh Festival 2026. Running for 40 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: temple
temple 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: £8 - £12
Age Guidance: 8+
Content Warnings: Audience participation
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.Nüshu: Written for Her, On Her, By Her represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.
Looking for more dance physical theatre and circus shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?
Browse all Dance Physical Theatre and Circus shows →Similar Events
Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API
