2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Immersive theatrical spectacular joins Edinburgh Fringe line-up this summer
This summer, prepare to be amazed as a brand new theatrical circus comes to Edinburgh.
Part of the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Spirit of the Favela is set to bring the vibrancy of Brazil to the Scottish capital for a limited run this summer.
Making its debut at the Fringe, the immersive production promises to be unlike anything the festival has seen before - as an electric, pulse-raising tribute to the heart and soul of Rio de Janeiro's favelas.
Running from July 28 to August 24, 2025, Spirit of the Favela will blend breathtaking artistry, powerful physical theatre, and the infectious rhythms of samba, funk, and street percussion to tell a story of community, resistance, and joy.
Celebrating Brazil's favela communities
With Spirit of the Favela, audiences can expect a true spectacle with a deeply human story at its core.
Using movement, music and sheer physicality, it follows the lives of a young dreamer, Davi, growing up in a favela, where danger and hardship are met with rhythm, creativity, and fierce pride - showcasing the beating heart of real life in Brazil.
When corporate giants threaten to demolish their community for mundane developments, the favela residents unite in a powerful stand, resulting in a mesmerising eruption on stage featuring live samba music, captivating dancers, and thrilling circus acts.
Witness gravity-defying stunts, explosive group choreography, and visceral moments of stillness and emotion that speak louder than dialogue ever could.
Creator and director of the show, Julia Kirilova, who is debuting her first independent production from Big Kid Entertainment with Spirit of the Favela, said: 'This is not a polished fairytale; Spirit of the Favela is raw, real, and utterly alive.
'It's the sound of a drum echoing through alleyways. The sparkle of carnival despite the chaos. It's people rising, dancing, flying.'
Inside the Mirage
But the heartfelt story and incredible performances are only where it begins, with the venue of the Mirage Spiegeltent being just as unique.
A spectacle all on its own, the Mirage Spiegeltent is a grand cabaret-style tent, embodying the charm, sparkle and spirit of Brazil.
Spiegeltents are often celebrated for their stunning aesthetics, featuring nostalgic designs and strategically placed mirrors throughout the tent to distort and reflect light, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
Combined with elements of wood and glass, guests can expect an immersive sensory experience where the line between performer and audience blurs; enjoy every flip, beat, and emotion as you sit close to the action.
The impressive venue will be located at the Gyle Shopping Centre, near Edinburgh Airport, throughout the Fringe, making it one of the first stops that festival-goers encounter, bringing the magic of performance and prestige to more people across the city.
The venue is also wheelchair accessible, and will be buzzing with energy from the moment you make your way through its arches.
Get your tickets today
Spirit of the Favela will run at the Mirage Spiegeltent, based at the Gyle Shopping Centre, EH12 9JY, from July 28 to August 24, 2025.
Tickets are now available to purchase online here, with general admission priced at £20, plus a booking fee.
The show will last for approximately 80 minutes and is suitable for ages 14 and over.
So, this summer, don't miss out on the Fringe's electric new arrival, promising international flair, a live original soundtrack, and a heartfelt message that resonates globally — all wrapped in the fabulous adrenaline rush of performance and spectacle.
