The Dark Carnival: Unplugged

The Dark Carnival: Unplugged is an intimate music and theatre show: With songs, storytelling and a free (though not compulsory!) glass of whisky for everyone, it tells the tale of newcomers to the afterlife who discover that death is not actually the end. Incredulous at their continuity, they form their own necropolitan community where every night is party night.

Based on the recent five-star theatre spectacular The Dark Carnival, this new ‘unplugged’ version features Biff Smith on acoustic guitar and narrator Robert Jack telling the story of the residents of Dickinsons Brae cemetery - a love story that spans life and death and a celebratory, heart-warming night out. 

Inspired by Weimar cabaret, danse macabre, Kurt Weill and Lionel Bart, the songs find themselves in a musical space somewhere in between Leonard Cohen and The Muppets.

‘each and everyone sings out for the great refusal, and for the joy of life itself’ ***** ★★★★★The Herald on The Dark Carnival

‘sit back and revel in this strange and wonderful entertainment for the moment we live in, and for all those who understand how human beings can always create songs and stories, wit and beauty, even in extremis’★★★★The Scotsman on The Dark Carnival

Sponsored by The Famous Grouse

If you are wondering how The Dark Carnival: Unplugged will differ from our recent five-star hit, The Dark Carnival, have a read of co-director, Nikki Kalkman's blog here.