The BBC’s First Homosexual

The BBC’s First Homosexual runs at Assembly George Square from 5 to 16 August 2026, bringing a suppressed 1954 BBC radio documentary about male homosexuality back to life through a new stage dramatisation.

The original programme was banned, later broadcast in heavily edited form, and then lost. A surviving transcript was rediscovered around 70 years later.

Key Event Details

What To Expect

Writer Stephen M Hornby uses material from the BBC archive alongside the fictional story of Tom, a young man living through the attitudes and restrictions of 1950s Britain. The play examines what the BBC chose to record, what it refused to broadcast, and the language used by supposedly authoritative voices discussing homosexuality at the time.

The production was developed with access to the surviving transcript, internal BBC material, and historical research by Professor Marcus Collins. Oli Hurst directs the expanded dramatisation, which runs for around an hour and carries a 16+ guideline.

Tickets & Entry

The official festival listing provides booking for the Edinburgh run. Check the live page for availability. See the official ticket page for the latest status, prices, and performance dates.

Location

The show takes place at Assembly George Square, George Square, Edinburgh EH8.

Getting There

Assembly George Square is in Edinburgh’s Southside, close to Bristo Square, the University of Edinburgh, and the National Museum of Scotland. Buses run along nearby South Bridge and Nicolson Street, while Waverley Station is within walking distance.

Our Tips

• The run finishes on 16 August, earlier than many Fringe shows.
• Check the Assembly room details on your ticket before arriving.
• The subject matter includes period homophobia and discussion of conversion practices.

Show information was checked against the official event listing.