Traverse Theatre

Location

About

If you're a theatre enthusiast and happen to be in Edinburgh, Scotland, then you must not miss the Traverse Theatre. Nestled in the heart of the city, the Traverse Theatre is a renowned venue that showcases the best of contemporary drama, new writing, and experimental plays. As a tourist, visiting the Traverse Theatre is an excellent way to experience Scottish culture and artistic creativity.

The Traverse Theatre has a rich history, and it all began in 1963 when a group of theatre enthusiasts established the Traverse Theatre Club. It quickly became a hub for emerging playwrights, directors, and actors, who were given a platform to showcase their talents. The Traverse Theatre officially opened in 1969 and has since been a fixture of the Edinburgh theatre scene.

The theatre is known for its intimate and unique performance spaces. It has two theatres: the Traverse 1 and Traverse 2, which are both black box theatres that allow for flexible staging and seating arrangements. The Traverse 1 is the larger of the two, with a capacity of 240, while the Traverse 2 has a capacity of 106. The intimate spaces allow for a more immersive theatre experience and give audiences a chance to connect with the performers on a deeper level.

One of the highlights of the Traverse Theatre is its commitment to showcasing new writing and emerging talent. It has a reputation for discovering and launching the careers of some of Scotland's most successful playwrights, including David Greig, who was the theatre's artistic director from 1994 to 2004. The theatre continues to support new talent through its year-round programme of workshops, readings, and residencies.

The Traverse Theatre's programme is diverse and ranges from new writing and contemporary drama to experimental and avant-garde productions. The theatre is known for pushing boundaries and challenging audiences with thought-provoking and daring productions. Its programme is curated to reflect the diverse and evolving nature of Scottish society, with themes such as politics, identity, and social justice being explored.

For tourists visiting the Traverse Theatre, there are several ways to experience its programme. You can book tickets to see a performance or participate in one of the theatre's many workshops or events. If you're short on time or unsure about which performance to see, you can opt for the theatre's Traverse 3 programme, which is a series of digital performances that can be streamed online.

In addition to its performances, the Traverse Theatre also has a café and bar, which are popular with locals and tourists alike. The café serves a range of locally sourced food and drinks, and its outdoor seating area provides a relaxing spot to enjoy a meal or a drink before or after a performance.

In conclusion, the Traverse Theatre is a must-visit destination for theatre enthusiasts visiting Edinburgh, Scotland. Its rich history, commitment to new writing and emerging talent, and diverse programme make it an exciting and thought-provoking venue. Whether you're interested in contemporary drama, experimental theatre, or simply want to experience Scottish culture, the Traverse Theatre is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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Things to do nearby

Traverse Theatre is a renowned cultural landmark in Edinburgh, Scotland, known for its innovative and thought-provoking productions. If you're a tourist in the area, there are plenty of places to explore and things to do nearby that will make your visit to Traverse Theatre even more memorable.

One of the must-visit attractions in the area is the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, which is only a short walk away from Traverse Theatre. The garden is home to over 13,000 plant species, including some rare and endangered ones, and covers 70 acres of land. You can take a leisurely stroll through the garden's stunning landscapes and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. You can also explore the greenhouses, exhibitions, and events that are regularly held at the garden.

Another popular attraction that's close to Traverse Theatre is the National Museum of Scotland. The museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts, ranging from prehistoric times to the present day, and covers a range of topics from science and technology to art and design. You can spend hours exploring the various exhibitions and displays and learning about Scotland's rich history and culture.

If you're a fan of the performing arts, you might want to check out the Festival Theatre, which is just a short distance from Traverse Theatre. The venue hosts a range of performances, from plays and musicals to dance shows and operas. You can check the schedule to see what's on during your visit and book tickets in advance.

For those interested in history and architecture, the Edinburgh Castle is a must-visit attraction. The castle sits atop an extinct volcano and has been a royal residence and military fortress for centuries. You can take a guided tour of the castle and explore its many attractions, including the Great Hall, the Crown Jewels, and the National War Museum of Scotland.

Foodies will also find plenty to enjoy in the area around Traverse Theatre. The Grassmarket area, which is a short walk away, is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, where you can sample traditional Scottish cuisine and drinks. You can also explore the local markets and shops to find unique souvenirs and gifts to take home with you.

Finally, if you're looking for some outdoor activities, Holyrood Park is a great place to visit. The park covers over 650 acres and is home to many walking and cycling trails, as well as a range of wildlife and historic sites, including Arthur's Seat, an extinct volcano that offers stunning views of the city.

In conclusion, if you're visiting Traverse Theatre as a tourist, there's plenty to see and do in the surrounding area. From historic landmarks to cultural attractions and outdoor activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So, be sure to take the time to explore and experience everything that this vibrant and fascinating city has to offer.