The Wolf of Poyais brings one of history’s most audacious scams to life at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, in a sharp and darkly comic one-man show.
Based on the true story of Gregor MacGregor, the production recounts how the 19th-century Scottish adventurer convinced investors and settlers to believe in a fictional country, complete with currency, land deeds and official documents. Hundreds bought into the illusion, with some even travelling across the Atlantic in search of a land that did not exist.
Thom Tuck takes on the role of MacGregor, addressing the audience directly as a charismatic figure who presents himself as both lecturer and motivational speaker. With charm and conviction, he reframes deception as ambition, guiding the audience through the mechanics of his infamous scheme.
Written by Sam Went, the show draws parallels between historical fraud and modern culture, reflecting on contemporary obsessions with wealth, success and self-invention. As MacGregor’s logic unfolds, the production highlights the enduring appeal of persuasive storytelling and the risks of believing what we most want to be true.
Blending humour with unsettling insight, The Wolf of Poyais offers a compelling look at the power of charisma and the fine line between confidence and deception.
The Wolf of Poyais runs at Assembly Roxy from 5 – 30 August at 20:30. Tickets are on sale here
