ScotlandsFest: Fortunes from Flesh – Scotland and Slavery
Spoken Word
Historical
Talk

ScotlandsFest: Fortunes from Flesh – Scotland and Slavery

Kate Phillips / Luath Press • Professional company

60 minutes•Hall
Henry Dundas, James Gillespie, George Watson. Scots made fortunes transporting so many people into slavery. So why do we still distance ourselves from this truth? For generations, the Scots prospered by using their human property to fund fabulous country homes, invest in ship building, iron smelting and coal mining. They ran a vicious propaganda campaign to protect the practice. But Scotland’s role in the slave trade remains a taboo. Join Kate Phillips, author of Bought and Sold: Scotland, Jamaica and Slavery, as she uncovers Scotland's dark past.

About the show

ScotlandsFest: Fortunes from Flesh — Scotland and Slavery is a historical talk by Kate Phillips, author of Bought and Sold: Scotland, Jamaica and Slavery. The show uncovers Scotland's overlooked role in the transatlantic slave trade, exploring how Scots including Henry Dundas, James Gillespie and George Watson made their fortunes through enslaved people — funding country homes, ship building, iron smelting and coal mining — while running propaganda campaigns to protect the practice. The event runs for 60 minutes at Hall.

Why see this show?

A clear-eyed, unflinching look at a truth Scotland has long kept at arm's length. Kate Phillips brings archival depth and a compelling argument to a subject that deserves far more attention.

Event Details

Thursday 20 August 2026

All performances at 13:30

60 minutes

Hall

14 Johnston Terrace

View on map

1 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Ticket Price

£10 (7)

Book Now
Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the talk?

The event runs for 60 minutes.

Where is it held?

The event takes place at Hall.

What is the age guidance?

The event is suitable for audiences aged 14 and over.

How much are tickets?

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

Who is presenting the talk?

Kate Phillips, author of Bought and Sold: Scotland, Jamaica and Slavery, presents the event.

Are there any content warnings?

No content warnings are listed for this event.

About This Performance

ScotlandsFest: Fortunes from Flesh – Scotland and Slavery 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
  • •Allow time to find unfamiliar venues
  • •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: Fortunes from Flesh – Scotland and Slavery represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

Looking for more spoken word shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?

Browse all Spoken Word shows →

Similar Events

Loading similar events...

Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API