EH7 is a new play, inspired by some of the amazing stories connected to this part of Edinburgh. Did you know about the hidden shrine and well of St Triduana, close to St Margaret’s, formerly the parish church of Restalrig? Self-blinded to avoid the unwanted attentions of a Pictish king, Triduana fled to Restalrig where her well is meant to heal eye ailments. Did you know about the Logan laird accused of being part of the Gowrie Plot against James VI and tried – posthumously? Or the hot-headed Captain Macrae , owner of Marionville House, who fought a duel over a sedan chair? If you’ve noticed the incongruously huge funeral monument standing among the 1920s bungalows of Craigentinny, you might be interested to learn about ‘Measure’ Miller, owner of Craigentinny House, who lies 40 feet beneath the classical oddity. Celebrities connected to EH7 include the Great Lafayette, famous illusionist, and James Tytler, the persistent balloonist. We don’t neglect local industries either: the oral history of Edinburgh Crystal and Munrospun informs sections of the play too. So many great stories and historic buildings – all in EH7.
The play, EH7, lasts around an hour, and is scripted by members of Citadel Arts Group’s playwrights workshop. The show is performed by the professional cast who brought Edinburgh the heritage-based plays, Leith Customs and Tales of the Towpath in 2024. ‘One of the best known community theatres in Scotland’ (Joyce McMillan), Citadel Arts Group knows how to tell a good story and make local history accessible to all.
Citadel will offer audience members a free brochure of additional historical research as background to each story. We will also arrange a visit to St Triduana’s well – details to be announced shortly.
Please note: performances are 1pm – 2.15pm on Saturday 14 June and 7pm – 8.15pm on Monday 16 June.
