ScotlandsFest: A Wee Bit Zen – When Less Is More

ScotlandsFest: A Wee Bit Zen – When Less Is More

Alan Spence / Luath PressProfessional company

Google Alan Spence / Luath Press
60 minutesHall
Join Alan Spence – former Edinburgh Makar and author of the cult-classic Glasgow Zen and upcoming sequel A Wee Bit Zen – for conversation and short-form poetry from a trickster with words and a mesmerising performer of his own work. Haiku, found poems, sound poems, text poems, puns, one-liners, overheard word-on-the-street poems, everyday zen, timeless poems of the here and now – poignant, insightful and laugh-out-loud funny. 'Spence is a calm and necessary visionary' (Ali Smith). 'Poetry with the gloves off' (Liz Lochhead).

About the show

Alan Spence, former Edinburgh Makar and author of the cult-classic Glasgow Zen, brings conversation and short-form poetry to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026. The show spans haiku, found poems, sound poems, text poems, puns, one-liners and everyday zen — described as poignant, insightful and laugh-out-loud funny. His upcoming sequel is titled A Wee Bit Zen. The event runs for 60 minutes at the Hall and is suitable for ages 14 and above. Tickets are £10.

Why see this show?

Alan Spence, former Edinburgh Makar, performs a wide range of short-form poetry — haiku, puns, one-liners and found verse — drawn from his Glasgow Zen tradition. An intimate hour that balances insight with humour.

Tickets

£10 (7)

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When

Monday 24 August 2026

All performances at 12:00

Duration

60 mins

Cast

1 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Venue
Hall

14 Johnston Terrace

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is performing?

Alan Spence, former Edinburgh Makar and author of the cult-classic Glasgow Zen, performs and holds conversation.

What kind of poetry is featured?

The show includes haiku, found poems, sound poems, text poems, puns, one-liners and overheard word-on-the-street poems.

How long is the show?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

Where is it performed?

It is performed at the Hall as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

What is the age guidance?

The show is suitable for ages 14 and above.

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets are £10, with a concession price of £7.

About This Performance

ScotlandsFest: A Wee Bit Zen – When Less Is More is a spoken word performance at Hall 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 the magic of live performance at Edinburgh Festival. Each show offers something unique and memorable.

Venue: Hall

Hall 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

  • Read recent reviews for audience reactions
  • Check venue accessibility if needed
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  • Download venue apps for digital tickets

Booking Information

Ticket Prices: From £10

Age Guidance: 14+

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.ScotlandsFest: A Wee Bit Zen – When Less Is More represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

Looking for more spoken word shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API