The Bloody Ballad of Bette Davis

The Bloody Ballad of Bette Davis

Piper Theatre ProductionsProfessional company

Google Piper Theatre Productions
60 minutesUpstairs
A glittering horror-musical fantasia about Bette Davis battling ageism on the 1975 set of Burnt Offerings. Her loyal minion Don urges her to reclaim power as Oliver Reed drinks, Karen Black challenges the old order and daughter BD Hyman arrives with judgment and scripture. Amelia Earhart appears as an unlikely guide to dangerous ambition. A five-actor ensemble explodes through gossip columnists, demons and Hollywood legends in dizzying movement and transformation. Camp, dread and show-business vengeance collide in a theatrical fever dream about fame, ambition, motherhood and the brutal cost of being seen.

About the show

The Bloody Ballad of Bette Davis is a 60-minute horror-musical by Piper Theatre Productions, performed at Upstairs during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026. Set on the 1975 set of Burnt Offerings, the show follows Bette Davis as she battles ageism, with her loyal minion Don urging her to reclaim power while Oliver Reed drinks, Karen Black challenges the old order and daughter BD Hyman arrives with judgment and scripture. Amelia Earhart appears as an unlikely guide. A five-actor ensemble moves through gossip columnists, demons and Hollywood legends in dizzying transformation, exploring fame, ambition, motherhood and the brutal cost of being seen. Suitable for ages 12 and over; tickets from £11.

Why see this show?

Five performers, a horror-musical format and a 1975 Hollywood setting where camp and dread share equal billing. A theatrically ambitious 60 minutes at Upstairs that covers fame, ambition and motherhood with genuine energy.

Tickets

£11

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When

Thursday 6 - Sunday 30 August 2026

All performances at 15:00

22 performances

Duration

60 mins

Cast

5 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Venue
Upstairs

2 Roxburgh Place

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the show run?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

What is the age guidance?

Suitable for audiences aged 12 and over.

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets start from £11.

Where is the show performed?

The show takes place at Upstairs during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

What kind of show is this?

It is a horror-musical fantasia featuring a five-actor ensemble, set on the 1975 set of Burnt Offerings, exploring themes of fame, ambition, motherhood and the cost of being seen.

Are there any content warnings?

No content warnings are listed for this show.

About This Music Performance

The Bloody Ballad of Bette Davis is a musicals and opera performance at Upstairs 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.

Enjoy live music in Edinburgh's atmospheric venues. From intimate acoustic sets to full band performances, each show offers a unique musical experience.

Venue: Upstairs

Upstairs 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: £11 - £16

Age Guidance: 12+

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.The Bloody Ballad of Bette Davis 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 →

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API