The Provocateurs: Artificial Wombs / Panic! at the Cortex
Spoken Word

The Provocateurs: Artificial Wombs / Panic! at the Cortex

The Provocateurs • Professional company

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60 minutes•Stand 2
Llona Kavege (The University of Edinburgh) dispels the hype around Brave New World like baby-making machines and tackles the pressing social and ethical implications of tinkering with the beginning of life. Does the state of the world make you anxious? Worried? Full of impending doom? Emily Payne (The University of Edinburgh) thinks that’s probably a good thing. A dive into the neuroscience behind anxiety reveals that instability is to blame, and what you can do about it. Part of the Edinburgh Medical School’s 300th Anniversary.

About The Provocateurs

The Provocateurs presents two spoken word talks at Stand 2, each running as part of a single 60-minute show. Llona Kavege from The University of Edinburgh dispels the hype around science-fiction notions of baby-making machines and tackles the pressing social and ethical implications of tinkering with the beginning of life. Emily Payne, also from The University of Edinburgh, dives into the neuroscience behind anxiety, arguing that instability is to blame and exploring what can be done about it. The show forms part of the Edinburgh Medical School's anniversary programme.

Why see this show?

Two urgent topics — reproductive ethics and the neuroscience of anxiety — presented by university researchers in a direct, accessible format. A thought-provoking double bill for anyone curious about where science and society collide.

Tickets

£12 (10)

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When

Saturday 15 August 2026

All performances at 13:45

Duration

60 mins

Cast

3 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Venue
Stand 2

16 North St Andrew Street

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

Where is it performed?

The show takes place at Stand 2.

What is the age guidance?

The show is suitable for ages 14 and over.

Are there any content warnings?

No warnings are listed for this show.

How much are tickets?

Tickets are £12, with a concession rate also available. See the booking link on this page for current ticket prices.

What type of show is it?

It is a spoken word show presenting two research-led talks on ethics and neuroscience.

About This Performance

The Provocateurs: Artificial Wombs / Panic! at the Cortex 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
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  • •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: Artificial Wombs / Panic! at the Cortex represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API