Punching Judy

Punching Judy

SkinnedTeethProfessional company

50 minutesThistle Theatre
Punch and Judy: a British entertainment institution famously contained within the confines of a small striped box. But what happens when the chaotic lives of these iconic characters tumbles out of the booth and spills into the real world? This is a one-hour tragicomedy exploring the public and private lives of Punch and Judy alongside the host of characters that have for centuries populated their world. With a blend of slapstick comedy and puppetry vs naturalistic drama, as the two sides begin to blur it makes for a dark and unsettling comedy that is no longer for kids.

About SkinnedTeeth

Punching Judy is a one-hour tragicomedy by SkinnedTeeth that asks what happens when the chaotic lives of Punch and Judy tumble out of the booth and spill into the real world. This British entertainment institution, famously contained within the confines of a small striped box, is reimagined as the show explores the public and private lives of Punch and Judy alongside the host of characters that have populated their world for centuries. Blending slapstick comedy and puppetry with naturalistic drama, as the two sides begin to blur it becomes a dark and unsettling comedy that is no longer for kids. The show runs for 50 minutes at Thistle Theatre and is suitable for ages 14 and above. Tickets are £15.

Why see this show?

A genuinely dark reworking of a beloved British institution, Punching Judy earns its unsettling premise through craft rather than shock. SkinnedTeeth's blending of puppetry and naturalistic drama makes for a genuinely surprising piece of theatre.

Event Details

Monday 24 - Saturday 29 August 2026

All performances at 22:00

6 performances

50 minutes

2 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Ticket Price

£15 (12.50)

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

The show runs for 50 minutes.

What age is this suitable for?

The show is suitable for ages 14 and above.

What does a ticket cost?

Tickets are £15, with a concession price of £12.50.

Does the show contain any warnings?

The show contains distressing or potentially triggering themes and scenes of violence.

Where does the show take place?

The show takes place at Thistle Theatre.

What kind of show is it?

It is a tragicomedy that blends slapstick comedy and puppetry with naturalistic drama, following the public and private lives of Punch and Judy outside the booth.

About This Theatre Production

Punching Judy is a theatre performance at Thistle Theatre during Edinburgh Festival 2026. Running for 50 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: Thistle Theatre

Thistle 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: From £15

Age Guidance: 14+

Content Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Scenes of violence

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.Punching Judy 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