The Provocateurs: Resistance Is Not Futile / Human-Robot Uncanny Collision

The Provocateurs: Resistance Is Not Futile / Human-Robot Uncanny Collision

The ProvocateursProfessional company

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60 minutesStand 4
Dr Lorena Fernández-Martínez (University of Glasgow) is getting her hands dirty hunting for new drugs to tackle antibiotic resistance. Could future medicines be hiding in the soil in your garden? The Uncanny Valley describes the unease we feel towards almost-human robots. But as cosmetic surgery makes human faces more artificial, are people entering the valley themselves? Dr Carl Strathearn (Edinburgh Napier University) asks could this shift help robots eventually escape it?

About The Provocateurs

The Provocateurs presents two science talks at Stand 4 on the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The first sees Dr Lorena Fernández-Martínez from the University of Glasgow exploring the hunt for new drugs to tackle antibiotic resistance, asking whether future medicines might be hidden in garden soil. The second features Dr Carl Strathearn from Edinburgh Napier University examining the Uncanny Valley — the unease humans feel towards almost-human robots — and questioning whether cosmetic surgery is bringing people into the valley themselves. The show runs for 60 minutes and is suitable for audiences aged 14 and over.

Why see this show?

Two provocative science talks in one sitting: one on the future of antibiotics, one on the line between humans and robots. Thought-provoking spoken word for anyone curious about where science is taking us.

Tickets

£12 (10)

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When

Friday 28 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

What is the show about?

The show features two science talks: one exploring antibiotic resistance and garden soil as a source of new drugs, and another examining the Uncanny Valley and what cosmetic surgery may mean for the future of human-robot relations.

How long does the show run?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

How much are tickets?

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

What is the age guidance?

This show is suitable for audiences aged 14 and over.

Where is the show?

The show takes place at Stand 4, Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

About This Performance

The Provocateurs: Resistance Is Not Futile / Human-Robot Uncanny Collision 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: Resistance Is Not Futile / Human-Robot Uncanny Collision represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API