The Provocateurs: The Weakness of Vulnerability / Should You Trust Anyone?

The Provocateurs: The Weakness of Vulnerability / Should You Trust Anyone?

The ProvocateursProfessional company

60 minutesStand 4
We like to think vulnerability deepens empathy. From TED talks to philosophy, we celebrate it as the key to empathy and courage. Dr Adrianna Zabrzewska (Edinburgh Napier University) explores what happens when vulnerability isn’t gentle or liberating but exploited for political gain. What do we know about trust? Do we even need to trust anymore, when we can just look people up online or track their movements? Dr Michael Stirrat (Edinburgh Napier University) explores trust and relationships.

About The Provocateurs

The Provocateurs presents two linked spoken word explorations at Stand 4. In the first, Dr Adrianna Zabrzewska of Edinburgh Napier University examines what happens when vulnerability is not gentle or liberating but is exploited for political gain — challenging the idea, celebrated in TED talks and philosophy, that vulnerability is simply the key to empathy and courage. In the second, Dr Michael Stirrat of Edinburgh Napier University explores trust and relationships in an age when people can be looked up online and tracked. The show runs 60 minutes, with age guidance 14+.

Why see this show?

Two academics from Edinburgh Napier University take ideas that usually live in lecture halls and put them on a Fringe stage, where the urgency of the questions feels immediate rather than theoretical. A thought-provoking hour for those who like their entertainment to challenge assumptions.

Event Details

Friday 7 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

How long is the show?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

What age is it suitable for?

Age guidance is 14+.

Are there any content warnings?

No content warnings are listed for this show.

How much do tickets cost?

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

Where is it performed?

The show takes place at Stand 4 as part of Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

What is the format?

The show is a spoken word event featuring two academic presenters exploring questions of vulnerability, trust and relationships.

About This Performance

The Provocateurs: The Weakness of Vulnerability / Should You Trust Anyone? 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: The Weakness of Vulnerability / Should You Trust Anyone? represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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