The Provocateurs: Haven from Fascism? / Spermageddon
Spoken Word

The Provocateurs: Haven from Fascism? / Spermageddon

The Provocateurs • Professional company

Google The Provocateurs
60 minutes•Stand 2
Dr Andrew Brown (The University of Edinburgh) examines how his grandparents, along with 400 other Polish refugees, found shelter – and an education – in the Edinburgh Medical School during WWII. Now Andrew’s found shelter there too – from Trump. Is history repeating? Sperm counts are declining and male fertility hangs in the balance. But what lies behind this threat to our very existence? Professor Rod Mitchell (The University of Edinburgh) has just 30 minutes to save the human race. Part of the Edinburgh Medical School’s 300th Anniversary.

About The Provocateurs

The Provocateurs is an Edinburgh Festival Fringe institution since 2013, formerly known as the Cabaret of Dangerous Ideas. Curated by the University of Edinburgh, each 60-minute show pairs two academics with a professional comedian to make cutting-edge research accessible and entertaining. This double-bill features Dr Andrew Brown examining how his grandparents — among 400 Polish refugees — found shelter and education at Edinburgh Medical School during WWII, drawing parallels to today, and Professor Rod Mitchell, a fertility researcher at the University of Edinburgh, delivering an urgent 30-minute case on declining sperm counts and the future of male fertility. Part of the Edinburgh Medical School's Anniversary celebrations.

Why see this show?

Two urgent topics, two world-class University of Edinburgh researchers, one hour at Stand 2. Personal wartime history collides with a pressing contemporary crisis in a format The List calls 'hugely educational and thought-provoking' — all with the wit and warmth The Provocateurs are known for.

Reviews & press

A fascinating discussion — Broadway BabyBroadway Baby described The Provocateurs as 'a fascinating discussion'.

Designed to challenge their audiences — The LancetThe Lancet noted The Provocateurs is 'designed to challenge their audiences'.

Hugely educational and thought-provoking — ListList magazine called The Provocateurs 'hugely educational and thought-provoking'.

Find the act: website

Tickets

£12 (10)

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When

Friday 21 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

What is The Provocateurs: Haven from Fascism? / Spermageddon?

It is a spoken word double-bill featuring two University of Edinburgh academics. Dr Andrew Brown explores his family's wartime history — how 400 Polish refugees, including his grandparents, found refuge at Edinburgh Medical School during WWII — and connects it to the present. Professor Rod Mitchell then presents 30 minutes on declining sperm counts and the threat to male fertility.

How long is the show?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

Where does it take place?

The show is performed at Stand 2, part of The Stand Comedy Club in Edinburgh.

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets are £12, with a concession price of £10.

Is there an age recommendation?

The show is recommended for audiences aged 14 and over.

Is this show part of any wider celebration?

Yes — it forms part of the Edinburgh Medical School's Anniversary programme.

About This Performance

The Provocateurs: Haven from Fascism? / Spermageddon 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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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: Haven from Fascism? / Spermageddon represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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