Òran, the critically acclaimed, sell-out hit of the 2024 Edinburgh Fringe, is set to embark on its first-ever UK tour this autumn. Created by Wonder Fools, the production will visit venues across Scotland and England from 19th September to 28th November.
Blending spoken word, lyrical storytelling, and a live electronic score from VanIves, Òran reimagines the myth of Orpheus in a thrilling and contemporary way. The story follows Òran on a heart-pounding journey to rescue his best friend from the Underworld, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and friendship.
The production marks a milestone for Wonder Fools, as Òran becomes the first show to rehearse at the newly opened Citizens Theatre in Glasgow.
Robbie Gordon and Jack Nurse, Directors and Co-Founders of Wonder Fools, said:
“We’re buzzing to be bringing Òran on its first-ever UK tour this autumn. The Fringe run was incredible, to have reviews that heralded it as an ‘electric tour de force’ and ‘totally immersive’ was really a dream come true for us as a team. The show blends spoken word storytelling with a live electronic soundtrack—created by VanIves—to retell an ancient myth in a completely fresh, contemporary way. Think poetry meets music from a class night out, ancient myth meets modern tales of friendship. We’re excited to share this story with new audiences across Scotland and England, especially in places we’ve never performed before. It’s going to be an unforgettable trip to the Underworld—don’t miss it.”
Writer Owen Sutcliffe added:
“It’s really exciting to see Òran heading out on the road this autumn. Last year’s award-winning Fringe run showed us how much the story resonates with audiences and I want to bring as many new people into that membership as possible. The staging, the live score, Robbie Gordon’s tour-de-force performance as Òran – none of it’s to be missed. Pack your bags and switch off your phones, troops, we’re heading back down.”
VanIves, who composed the show’s score, said:
“We wanted to create a soundtrack that feels like both a gig and a myth — something that pulses with the energy of today while echoing the timelessness of the story. As regular collaborators of Wonder Fools we really wanted to set Robbie a challenge and create a show that feels like it takes real effort to perform.”
Directed by Jack Nurse and performed by Robbie Gordon, Òran won the Best Debut award at The Skinny & Fest Mag Awards during its Fringe run. The tour is supported by Creative Scotland’s Touring Fund.
Listings and ticket information can be found here
