Tenderly: The Life and Times of Nat King Cole
Duane Forrest Productions • Professional company
Tenderly: The Life and Times of Nat King Cole
By Duane Forrest Productions • Professional company
Book NowAbout the show
Tenderly: The Life and Times of Nat King Cole is a jazz and historical theatre piece from Duane Forrest Productions, performed at Partially Seated as part of Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Artist Duane Forrest brings the timeless music of Nat King Cole to life through soulful performance and storytelling, blending velvety renditions with personal reflection. He explores how a Black artist in nineteen-fifties America became a cultural pioneer while navigating a world that celebrated him onstage but resisted him off it. Raised in Toronto, Forrest reflects on his own journey with jazz and belonging. The show runs for 60 minutes and is for adults aged 18 and over.
Why see this show?
A beautifully focused piece that uses Nat King Cole's music as a lens on race, dignity and legacy in mid-century America — and as a personal touchstone for the performer's own story. The combination of live performance, storytelling and reflection makes for a moving and intimate 60 minutes at Partially Seated.
Wednesday 26 - Sunday 30 August 2026
All performances at 14:30
5 performances
60 minutes
4 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026
£15 (12)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The show runs for 60 minutes.
Where does the show take place?
The show is at Partially Seated as part of Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
What is the age guidance?
This show is for adults aged 18 and over.
How much do tickets cost?
Tickets are £15, with a concession price of £12.
Are there any content warnings?
The show includes audience participation, scenes of violence, and strong language and swearing.
What is the show about?
It is a theatrical exploration of the life and music of Nat King Cole, blending velvety musical performance with personal storytelling about race, legacy and belonging.
About This Theatre Production
Tenderly: The Life and Times of Nat King Cole is a theatre performance at Partially Seated 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 compelling storytelling brought to life by talented performers. Theatre at Edinburgh ranges from intimate black box productions to grand stage spectacles.
Venue: Partially Seated
Partially Seated 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: 18+
Content Warnings: Audience participation, Scenes of violence, Strong language/swearing
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.Tenderly: The Life and Times of Nat King Cole represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.
Looking for more theatre shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?
Browse all Theatre shows →Similar Events
Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API
