The Provocateurs: Superhero Porn / Hookers for Jesus

The Provocateurs: Superhero Porn / Hookers for Jesus

The ProvocateursProfessional company

60 minutesStand 4
Dr Hailey Austin (Abertay University) undresses the secret origins of superhero comics, revealing how 19th-century nude photography and 1920s erotic pulp magazines created iconic superhero characters like Superman, Wonder Woman and Spider-Man, and influenced their revealing spandex costumes. Dr Jo Thor (The University of Edinburgh) journeys from Annie Lobert’s Hookers for Jesus ministry in modern Las Vegas to Victorian Scotland’s Magdalene asylums – prayer, work, refuge. Were they pioneering social care for prostitutes, or moral control? What should we borrow today?

About The Provocateurs

The Provocateurs: Superhero Porn / Hookers for Jesus is a double-bill spoken word show at Stand 4, presented by The Provocateurs, a professional company. Dr Hailey Austin from Abertay University explores the secret origins of superhero comics, revealing how nude photography and erotic pulp magazines from the nineteenth century and the nineteen-twenties created iconic characters including Superman, Wonder Woman and Spider-Man. Dr Jo Thor from The University of Edinburgh journeys from Annie Lobert's Hookers for Jesus ministry in modern Las Vegas to Victorian Scotland's Magdalene asylums, asking whether they offered pioneering social care or moral control. Running 60 minutes, suitable for audiences aged 14 and over.

Why see this show?

Two academic provocateurs deliver genuinely surprising talks — one on the erotic origins of superhero comics, another on the complex legacy of Magdalene asylums. Thought-provoking spoken word that earns its title.

Event Details

Thursday 27 August 2026

All performances at 17:35

60 minutes

Stand 4

28 York Place

View on map

3 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Ticket Price

£12 (10)

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Provocateurs: Superhero Porn / Hookers for Jesus?

A double-bill spoken word show. Dr Hailey Austin explores the origins of superhero comics in early nude photography and erotic pulp magazines. Dr Jo Thor examines the Hookers for Jesus ministry in Las Vegas and Victorian Scotland's Magdalene asylums.

How long does the show run?

60 minutes.

What is the age guidance?

14+.

Where is it performed?

Stand 4, Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

How much do tickets cost?

£12.

Are there any content warnings?

None listed.

About This Performance

The Provocateurs: Superhero Porn / Hookers for Jesus 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: Superhero Porn / Hookers for Jesus represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

Looking for more spoken word shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?

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