Founded in 1989, Edinburgh University Footlights is a student-run musical theatre group that produces three large scale productions every year. Over the years, Footlights has gone from strength to strength, with The Edinburgh Evening News dubbing the society “one of the most respected theatre groups in Britain’’. Recent five star shows have included Pippin (2024), Guys and Dolls (2024), Bohemia (2023) and Company (2022).
Down the hatch
27th - 29th march • Pleasance Theatre
This year’s Showchoir, ‘Down The Hatch’, will bring a magical night of musical storytelling to the stage, set in an old, homey, run-down tavern where many have come together to tell their story over a few pints. Highlighting all the talent that Edinburgh has to offer through familiar musical theatre numbers to traditional Gaelic songs, this heartwarming semi-immersive show is going to leave audiences completely captivated by this insight into the individual lives of people in a community.
‘Down The Hatch’ will be running from 27th-29th of March at Pleasance Theatre. Follow @downthehatch.footlights on Instagram for more information coming soon!
FOOTWORK 2025 SHOWCASE
24th march • DIRTY MARTINI
Get ready for a night of energy, passion, and pure joy as FOOTWORK makes its debut on stage! FOOTWORK is Edinburgh University Footlight’s first-ever non-auditioned musical theatre workshop group, meaning this is a performance truly for everyone, by everyone.
This year’s showcase celebrates self-expression and community, featuring high-energy hits from Hairspray, The Greatest Showman, and Wicked, alongside the powerful storytelling of Hadestown. FOOTWORK 2025 showcases the passion and dedication of our performers, whether you're a musical theatre fan or just love great performances, you won’t want to miss it!
And it's all for an amazing cause! All ticket proceeds will go directly to Make a Smile, a wonderful charity dedicated to bringing joy to children facing difficult circumstances. Since 2016, their mission has been to ensure that no child misses out on the magic of childhood, whether due to illness or disabilities that make it harder to interact with their idols. From hospital visits to large community events, their volunteers (often dressed as beloved characters!) create a safe, friendly space where children can experience the joy and wonder of childhood, no matter their situation. We ask for a minimum £5 donation for general admission, however, if you'd like to contribute more, we offer a range of add-on options to increase your donation and further support this wonderful cause!