"Sauna Theatre": Sauna Rituals and Culture at Edinburgh Fringe
Up to 80 people will be able to experience theater, music, comedy, and Aufguss ceremonies in the installation designed specifically for the festival. // Visualisation: Therme Group
(eap) The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is considered as one of the world’s largest arts and cultural festivals. Every August, it brings numerous artists and visitors to the Scottish capital. This summer, Therme Manchester, which is currently under construction, and Sauna Sessions Arts Club are planning to jointly present a new cultural and sauna format at the festival.
The Sauna Theatre, planned as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, will combine sauna rituals with art and culture. // Visualisation: Therme Group
The so-called “Sauna Theatre” is set to open as part of the programme of the arts organization Summerhall Arts and introduce a broader UK audience to Aufguss culture. Initiated by James Grieve and Lucy Osborne, the project combines theatre, literature, comedy and music with Aufguss ceremonies, bringing together heat, essential oils, movement and performative elements. Purpose-built for the festival, Sauna Theatre is expected to accommodate up to 80 people and become the UK’s first dedicated sauna arts centre. The installation is also described as the largest sauna venue of its kind in the country.
Professor David Russell, CEO of Therme UK, said: “Aufguss is hugely popular across Europe but remains relatively unknown in the UK. Through this partnership we have an opportunity to introduce new audiences to the experience while supporting a growing community of independent sauna operators and practitioners across the country. We see this as the beginning of a wider movement that celebrates the social, cultural and wellbeing benefits of sauna.” ■
