ScotlandsFest: Scotland’s Darkest Past

ScotlandsFest: Scotland’s Darkest Past

Mary Craig / Luath PressProfessional company

60 minutesHall
Join Mary Craig, author of Agnes Finnie, and step beyond the myths into a chilling world where whispers became accusations and accusations became death sentences. Uncover the terrifying reality of Scotland’s witch hunts, where zealous churchmen and unforgiving courts turned fear into deadly power. Hear the true stories: neighbours betraying neighbours, confessions forced in the shadows, and lives destroyed in the name of belief. This is history at its most brutal. Feel the tension. Question the justice. Confront the fear. This event will leave you questioning, would you have survived?

About the show

Mary Craig, author of Agnes Finnie, presents Scotland's Darkest Past — a spoken word talk exploring the brutal reality of Scotland's witch hunts. Presented at the Hall as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the event runs for 60 minutes and is suitable for ages 14 and over. Craig takes audiences beyond myth into the documented world of accusations, forced confessions and death sentences, examining how zealous churchmen and unforgiving courts wielded fear as deadly power.

Why see this show?

Gripping history delivered by the author who researched it deeply — real stories of neighbours betraying neighbours, courts without mercy, and lives destroyed by belief. An hour that will leave you genuinely unsettled.

Event Details

Thursday 20 August 2026

All performances at 12:00

60 minutes

Hall

14 Johnston Terrace

View on map

1 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Ticket Price

£10 (7)

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Scotland's Darkest Past about?

Author Mary Craig explores the reality of Scotland's witch hunts, covering forced confessions, neighbourly betrayal, and how fear was turned into deadly power by zealous churchmen and unforgiving courts.

How long does the event last?

The event runs for 60 minutes.

What is the age guidance?

The event is suitable for ages 14 and over.

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets are £10 (concessions £7).

Where does the event take place?

The event takes place at the Hall as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

About This Performance

ScotlandsFest: Scotland’s Darkest Past 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

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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: Scotland’s Darkest Past represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API