About Eva Seymour
The Understudy is a one-woman dark comedy written and performed by Eva Seymour, directed by Olivia Charalambous. It follows an Australian swing — an understudy — whose anxiety-fuelled existence revolves entirely around waiting for her moment in the spotlight. Subversive, silly and unflinchingly honest, the show traverses jealousy, self-righteousness and the price of ambition as the character does anything for the stage, no matter the cost. The performance turns on a dime between comedy and something altogether darker.
Why see this show?
A sharp, solo performance that is simultaneously funny and genuinely unsettling. Eva Seymour has crafted something honest about ambition, obsession and the sacrifices made in pursuit of a spotlight that may never come. Hauntingly dark comedy with real precision.
Wednesday 5 - Monday 31 August 2026
All performances at 12:15
24 performances
60 minutes
1 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026
£8
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does The Understudy run?
The show runs for 60 minutes.
Where is The Understudy performed?
The Understudy is performed at The Box at Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
What is the age guidance?
The show is recommended for audiences aged 14 and over.
What is the ticket price?
Tickets start from £8. See the booking link on this page for current ticket prices.
Are there any content warnings?
The show contains strong language and swearing, and includes drug references.
Who wrote and performs The Understudy?
The show is written and performed by Eva Seymour, and directed by Olivia Charalambous.
About This Theatre Production
The Understudy is a theatre performance at The Box 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 compelling storytelling brought to life by talented performers. Theatre at Edinburgh ranges from intimate black box productions to grand stage spectacles.
Venue: The Box
The Box 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: £8 - £13.5
Age Guidance: 14+
Content Warnings: Strong language/swearing, More information Drug References
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 Understudy 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
