The Provocateurs: AI and Economics / Midwife Crones Fight Back
The Provocateurs • Professional company
The Provocateurs: AI and Economics / Midwife Crones Fight Back
By The Provocateurs • Professional company
Book NowAbout The Provocateurs
The Provocateurs presents two back-to-back talks at Stand 2. In the first, Dr Elena Papagiannaki from Edinburgh Napier University examines AI's promised impact on productivity, wages and jobs, asking who really benefits and whether today's job losses are AI-caused or merely AI-washed. In the second, Nicola Ring and Ness McHugh from Edinburgh Napier University investigate why the hundreds of women trained by Edinburgh's world-leading men-midwives — including Highland midwife Mrs Cowper, who recorded thousands of births and no maternal deaths — have been historically invisible and dismissed as incompetent. The session runs for 60 minutes.
Why see this show?
Two thought-provoking talks in one hour, connecting big questions about economic hype and historical erasure. Rigorous, accessible and genuinely provocative — exactly what Fringe spoken word should be.
Thursday 27 August 2026
All performances at 13:45
60 minutes
4 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026
£12 (10)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The session runs for 60 minutes.
Where is it performed?
It takes place at Stand 2.
What is the age guidance?
This event is suitable for ages 14 and above.
How much are tickets?
Tickets are £12, with a concession price of £10.
What are the two topics covered?
The first talk examines AI and economics; the second explores the historically invisible women trained as midwives in Edinburgh and asks why their contributions have been dismissed.
Are there any content warnings?
No content warnings apply to this event.
About This Performance
The Provocateurs: AI and Economics / Midwife Crones Fight Back is a spoken word performance at Stand 2 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 the magic of live performance at Edinburgh Festival. Each show offers something unique and memorable.
Venue: Stand 2
Stand 2 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
- •Read recent reviews for audience reactions
- •Check venue accessibility if needed
- •Allow time to find unfamiliar venues
- •Download venue apps for digital tickets
Booking Information
Ticket Prices: From £12
Age Guidance: 14+
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 Provocateurs: AI and Economics / Midwife Crones Fight Back represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.
Looking for more spoken word shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?
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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API
