The Provocateurs: Horror Therapy / Ethical Innovators?

The Provocateurs: Horror Therapy / Ethical Innovators?

The ProvocateursProfessional company

Google The Provocateurs
60 minutesStand 4
Horror films can be cathartic, validating and meaningful. Can they be more helpful than counselling or therapy for dealing with anxiety, depression, grief or trauma? Trauma therapist Dr Amy Beddows (Edinburgh Napier University) and hardcore horror fan thinks so. Can you create a new and exciting innovative business and still be ethical? Join Provocateurs regular Nicola Osborne (The University of Edinburgh) to explore if new ideas and technologies – including AI – can still be ethical and inclusive.

About The Provocateurs

The Provocateurs presents two linked talks at Stand 4 during Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The first explores whether horror films can be more helpful than therapy for anxiety, depression, grief or trauma, led by trauma therapist Dr Amy Beddows of Edinburgh Napier University. The second, with Nicola Osborne of The University of Edinburgh, asks whether innovative businesses — including those using AI — can still be ethical and inclusive. The show runs for 60 minutes and is suitable for audiences aged 14 and over.

Why see this show?

Two genuinely provocative questions in one hour — can horror films outperform counselling, and can AI innovation stay ethical? Both speakers bring institutional research backgrounds that ground the discussion beyond armchair debate.

Tickets

£12 (10)

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When

Saturday 15 August 2026

All performances at 17:35

Duration

60 mins

Cast

3 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Venue
Stand 4

28 York Place

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

Where does it take place?

It is performed at Stand 4 as part of Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Is there an age guidance?

Yes, the show is suitable for audiences aged 14 and over.

How much do tickets cost?

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

What topics are covered?

The show covers two subjects: whether horror films can be therapeutic for anxiety, grief or trauma; and whether new and innovative businesses, including AI ventures, can be ethical and inclusive.

Are there any content warnings?

No content warnings are listed for this show.

About This Performance

The Provocateurs: Horror Therapy / Ethical Innovators? is a spoken word performance at Stand 4 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 4

Stand 4 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: Horror Therapy / Ethical Innovators? represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

Looking for more spoken word shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?

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