The Provocateurs: Women Can’t Be Doctors? / Birthing Bravery

The Provocateurs: Women Can’t Be Doctors? / Birthing Bravery

The ProvocateursProfessional company

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60 minutesStand 4
As the Edinburgh Medical School turns 300, Professor Roger Jeffery (The University of Edinburgh) asks why women were excluded. Why was there such a long gap from the first efforts to gain admission in 1869 to success in 1916? The future is created through childbirth. Dr Rosie Townsend (The University of Edinburgh) races through time to learn how bravery in birth got us here, and how new technology will shape safer births in the future. Part of the Edinburgh Medical School’s 300th Anniversary.

About The Provocateurs

The Provocateurs presents a double bill of spoken word talks at Stand 4, part of the Edinburgh Medical School's 300th Anniversary. First, Professor Roger Jeffery of The University of Edinburgh explores why women were excluded from medicine — tracing the gap from the first efforts to gain admission in 1869 to success in 1916. Then Dr Rosie Townsend of The University of Edinburgh races through time to explore how bravery in birth has shaped history and how new technology will shape safer births in the future. The show runs 60 minutes. Tickets are £12.

Why see this show?

Two University of Edinburgh academics deliver sharp, accessible talks on women's exclusion from medicine and the history of childbirth — smart Fringe programming that marks a genuine anniversary with substance.

Tickets

£12 (10)

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When

Thursday 20 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 does the show run?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

How much do tickets cost?

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

What is the minimum age to attend?

The show is suitable for ages 14 and over.

What topics are covered?

Professor Roger Jeffery asks why women were excluded from medical school, tracing events from 1869 to 1916. Dr Rosie Townsend explores how bravery in childbirth has shaped history and how new technology will improve births in the future.

Is this part of a wider event?

Yes, the show is part of the Edinburgh Medical School's 300th Anniversary.

Are there any content warnings?

No content warnings have been listed for this show.

About This Performance

The Provocateurs: Women Can’t Be Doctors? / Birthing Bravery 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
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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: Women Can’t Be Doctors? / Birthing Bravery represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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