The Horse of Jenin

The Horse of Jenin

Alaa Shehada in association with Palestine Comedy Club and PleasanceProfessional company

Google Alaa Shehada in association with Palestine Comedy Club and Pleasance
75 minutesBeyond
Returning after a Fringe First award-winning, sold-out run, as a Rolling Stone Top 10 Show. This is a universal story of resilience and imagination, written and performed by comedian and actor Alaa Shehada. Blending storytelling, mask and stand-up, the show follows a boy growing up in Jenin, Occupied Palestine, who just wants to play. After a 2002 invasion, local children and a German artist built a five-metre horse from debris – a symbol of freedom and resistance. Destroyed in 2023, Shehada rebuilds the Horse on stage from fragments of memory, loss and hope. ***** (Guardian).

About the show

Written and performed by comedian and actor Alaa Shehada, The Horse of Jenin blends storytelling, mask work, and stand-up to follow a boy growing up in Jenin, Occupied Palestine, who just wants to play. After a 2002 invasion, local children and a German artist built a five-metre horse from debris — a symbol of freedom and resistance. Destroyed in 2023, Shehada rebuilds the horse on stage from fragments of memory, loss, and hope. Presented in association with Palestine Comedy Club and Pleasance.

Why see this show?

A deeply human story told with craft and unexpected humour. Shehada's use of storytelling, mask, and stand-up creates something genuinely rare — a show about resilience and imagination that earns its emotional weight.

Tickets

£17 (15)

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When

Tuesday 18 - Sunday 30 August 2026

All performances at 13:15

13 performances

Duration

75 mins

Cast

1 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Venue
Beyond

60 Pleasance

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the show run?

The performance runs for 75 minutes.

Where does the show take place?

The show takes place at Beyond, as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

What is the age guidance?

This show is suitable for ages 12 and over.

What does a ticket cost?

Tickets are £17, with a concession rate of £15.

Are there any content warnings?

The show contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, references to war, and strong language.

What style of performance is it?

The show blends storytelling, mask work, and stand-up comedy, written and performed by Alaa Shehada.

About This Theatre Production

The Horse of Jenin is a theatre performance at Beyond during Edinburgh Festival 2026. Running for 75 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: Beyond

Beyond 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: £17 - £19

Age Guidance: 12+

Content Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Strong language/swearing, More information This show contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, references to war, and strong language

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 Horse of Jenin represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API