The Ballad of Isobel Gunn
Melanie Gall Presents • Professional company
About the show
The Ballad of Isobel Gunn is a new Scottish-Canadian musical recounting the extraordinary true tale of Isobel Gunn, a Scottish Orcadian woman who explored Canada in 1806, living as a man and working for the Hudson Bay Company. After journeying from the remote Orkney Islands, Isobel travelled 1800 miles across the Canadian wilderness as John Fubbister, a labourer in the fur trade. When she unexpectedly gives birth, her identity is revealed. Presented by Melanie Gall Presents, a professional company, the show runs 50 minutes at the Annexe and is suitable for audiences aged 8 and over.
Why see this show?
A true story of remarkable courage and self-invention — Isobel Gunn walked 1800 miles across Canada in disguise to live freely. Melanie Gall Presents bring this long-forgotten Orcadian hero to life in a musical that is both adventurous and intimate.
Friday 7 - Saturday 29 August 2026
15:05, 12:05
21 performances
50 minutes
2 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026
£10 (8)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Ballad of Isobel Gunn about?
The true story of Isobel Gunn, an Orcadian woman who disguised herself as a man named John Fubbister and travelled 1800 miles across Canada in 1806 to work for the Hudson Bay Company.
How long does the show run?
50 minutes.
What is the age guidance?
8+.
Where is it performed?
Annexe, Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
How much do tickets cost?
£10.
Are there any content warnings?
Yes — a brief mention of a non-consensual sexual encounter.
About This Music Performance
The Ballad of Isobel Gunn is a musicals and opera performance at Annexe 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.
Enjoy live music in Edinburgh's atmospheric venues. From intimate acoustic sets to full band performances, each show offers a unique musical experience.
Venue: Annexe
Annexe 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
- •Standing venues - arrive early for best spots
- •Check if seats are unreserved or allocated
- •Some venues allow drinks in the performance space
- •Merchandise often available after the show
Booking Information
Ticket Prices: £10 - £12
Age Guidance: 8+
Content Warnings: More information A brief mention of a non-consensual sexual encounter.
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.The Ballad of Isobel Gunn represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.
Looking for more musicals and opera shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?
Browse all Musicals and Opera shows →Similar Events
Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API
