The Italians in England

The Italians in England

Action Theatre (Italy)Professional company

Google Action Theatre (Italy)
55 minutesFleming Theatre
Early 1570s. Some years before Shakespeare. Commedia dell' Arte's combination of mask, comedy, wild plots, hilarious improvisation and women performing on stage is taking Europe by storm. Queen Elizabeth I insists on seeing the Italian players at her royal court. Following their success at the 2024 Fringe, the Italians are back in an adaptation of Flaminio Scala's canovaccio, The Jealous Old Man, featuring a ten-strong troupe, leather half masks, exquisite costumes, live music and four-part harmony. 'A rare chance to see such work done this well' **** (BritishTheatreGuide.info). ***** (GetYourCoatsOn.com).

About the show

The Italians in England is a physical theatre and comedy production by Action Theatre (Italy), staged at the Fleming Theatre during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The 55-minute show is set in the early fifteen-seventies — some years before Shakespeare — at the height of Commedia dell'Arte's popularity across Europe. The production adapts Flaminio Scala's canovaccio The Jealous Old Man, featuring a ten-strong troupe in leather half masks and exquisite costumes, with live music and four-part harmony. It is suitable for ages 12 and over, and mildly alludes to sex.

Why see this show?

A ten-strong Italian company performing Commedia dell'Arte in period masks and costume, with live music — a rare and vibrant form of theatre that Edinburgh rarely sees done with this level of craft and tradition.

Tickets

£10

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When

Friday 7 - Saturday 15 August 2026

All performances at 12:55

9 performances

Duration

55 mins

Cast

10 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Venue
Fleming Theatre

Surgeons Quarter, Nicolson Street

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

The show runs for 55 minutes.

How much are tickets?

Tickets are £10.

What is the age guidance?

The show is suitable for ages 12 and over.

Where is it performed?

At the Fleming Theatre, Edinburgh.

What style of performance is it?

A Commedia dell'Arte physical theatre production featuring a ten-strong troupe, leather half masks, live music and four-part harmony, adapted from Flaminio Scala's The Jealous Old Man.

Are there any content warnings?

The show mildly alludes to sex.

About This Theatre Production

The Italians in England is a theatre performance at Fleming Theatre during Edinburgh Festival 2026. Running for 55 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: Fleming Theatre

Fleming Theatre 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: £10 - £14

Age Guidance: 12+

Content Warnings: More information The show alludes to sex but in a mild manner.

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 Italians in England represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API