The Provocateurs: Midwife Crones Fight Back / When Superbugs Kill
The Provocateurs • Professional company
Google The ProvocateursThe Provocateurs: Midwife Crones Fight Back / When Superbugs Kill
By The Provocateurs • Professional company
Google The ProvocateursAbout The Provocateurs
The Provocateurs presents two connected spoken word pieces from Edinburgh Napier University researchers. The first asks why the many women trained by Edinburgh's pioneering men-midwives have been written out of history and dismissed as incompetent crones — anchored by the remarkable case of Highland midwife Mrs. Cowper, who recorded 4000 births and no maternal deaths. The second piece, led by Professor Clare Taylor, shifts to a present-day threat: the rise of antibiotic-resistant superbugs and what happens when routine infections become life-threatening.
Why see this show?
Two sharp, research-driven talks in one hour — one uncovering a forgotten chapter in women's medical history, the other making the case that superbugs are a very real and present danger. Thought-provoking and deliberately unsettling.
£12 (10)
Friday 14 August 2026
All performances at 17:35
60 mins
4 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The show runs for 60 minutes.
Where is it performed?
The show takes place at Stand 4 as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
What is the age guidance?
The show is suitable for audiences aged 14 and over.
How much are tickets?
Tickets are £12.
What kind of show is it?
It is a spoken word double bill presented by researchers from Edinburgh Napier University, covering medical history and the threat of antibiotic resistance.
Are there any content warnings?
No specific content warnings are listed for this show.
About This Performance
The Provocateurs: Midwife Crones Fight Back / When Superbugs Kill 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
- •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: Midwife Crones Fight Back / When Superbugs Kill 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
