Backstage Tours

The Edinburgh Playhouse is running backstage tours throughout the autumn, and the next one is on Friday 30 October at 10:30. It's a one-hour walk that takes you behind the scenes of one of the city's biggest stages, a venue that's hosted some of the world's greatest artists over the years. Along the way you'll hear about its artistic history and get a look at how the magic of theatre is actually made behind the big red curtain.

One thing that makes this a bit more than just a walk-around is the extra that comes with your ticket. Each one includes a cup of tea or coffee, a soft drink and a pastry at Little Picardy, the bar right next door, to be used on the day of the tour. It's a nice way to stretch the morning out—coffee and a pastry before you head inside, or a drink afterwards while you're still thinking about what you've seen. Just keep in mind that the ticket doesn't include a show ticket, so this is its own separate thing.

There are a few practical bits to have in mind before you book. Under-16s need to be accompanied by an adult. Access to the backstage and stage areas is subject to availability and can be cancelled at short notice if there are company rehearsals going on, so that part of the tour isn't always guaranteed. The routes also involve stairs and narrow corridors, which means they aren't wheelchair accessible.

If the 30 October date doesn't work for you, there are other tours running between 11 September and 12 December, each lasting an hour. Tickets start from £20 per person, and the Playhouse is at 18-22 Greenside Place, EH1 3AA.