The Spy Network
Shooting Fish Theatre Company • Professional company
Google Shooting Fish Theatre CompanyThe Spy Network
By Shooting Fish Theatre Company • Professional company
Google Shooting Fish Theatre CompanyAbout the show
The Spy Network is a historical new-writing thriller from Shooting Fish Theatre Company, performed at Thistle Theatre as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026. On the morning of 8 February 1587, Mary, Queen of Scots enters the great hall where she will soon be executed for treason. There she meets Barnaby Fulke, an enigmatic actor sent to provide merriment before the chop. With one last chance to set the record straight, Mary stages her story, revisiting the spies, secrets and betrayals that sealed her fate. Secret codes, espionage and treason propel this gripping three-hander through Scotland's turbulent past. The show runs for 50 minutes and is suitable for those aged 8 and over.
Why see this show?
A gripping three-hander that frames Mary, Queen of Scots' final hours as a story within a story — full of espionage, secret codes and betrayal. Accessible from age 8 and up, The Spy Network at Thistle Theatre makes history genuinely tense.
£15 (13)
Monday 17 - Saturday 29 August 2026
All performances at 13:50
12 performances
50 mins
3 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The show runs for 50 minutes.
What is the age guidance?
This show is suitable for those aged 8 and over.
How much do tickets cost?
Tickets are £15. See the booking link on this page for concession prices.
Are there any content warnings?
The show contains distressing or potentially triggering themes and scenes of violence.
What is the show about?
It is set on the morning of 8 February 1587, when Mary, Queen of Scots revisits the spies, secrets and betrayals that sealed her fate — told as a three-hander with an enigmatic actor sent to provide merriment before her execution.
Where is the show performed?
The show takes place at Thistle Theatre, as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026.
About This Theatre Production
The Spy Network is a theatre performance at Thistle Theatre during Edinburgh Festival 2026. Running for 50 minutes, this show is part of the world's largest arts festival, bringing together performers and audiences from across the globe.
Experience compelling storytelling brought to life by talented performers. Theatre at Edinburgh ranges from intimate black box productions to grand stage spectacles.
Venue: Thistle Theatre
Thistle Theatre 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
- •Check for trigger warnings if sensitive to certain topics
- •Most Fringe theatre runs without interval
- •Latecomers may not be admitted
- •Consider matinee performances for a relaxed experience
Booking Information
Ticket Prices: From £15
Age Guidance: 8+
Content Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Scenes of violence
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 Spy Network represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.
Looking for more theatre shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?
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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API
