Raise the Barre by Masters of Choreography in collaboration with Assembly Festival is a high-energy riot of polished choreography, contemporary music, and breathtaking acrobatics. Held at the Assembly Rooms’ Music Hall throughout the Edinburgh Fringe at 3:20 pm daily, this show is an unforgettable dance journey for all ages.
From its opening moments, Raise the Barre establishes itself as an electrifying fusion of ballet, jazz, street, breaking, and commercial dance forms—with a side of slapstick and theatrical panache. The dancers, who appear to have unlimited stamina, perform a stunning ensemble of soaring leaps, dynamic footwork, and cheeky comedic skits.
My 13-year-old son, who has dabbled in breakdancing before, was particularly spellbound by the power moves on display. Watching the dancers has reinvigorated his enthusiasm for the genre—and, in particular, for learning how to do a backflip.
For me, the show was a powerful reminder that dance, at its best, is not only about technical prowess but about communal joy and a shared experience. Here’s hoping it literally raises the bar for family-friendly, high-octane dance entertainment—because for a full hour of unbridled fun, it’s absolutely nailed it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Show details:
- Where: Assembly Festival, Music Hall at Assembly Rooms
- When: Now until August 24 (except Wednesdays) at 15:20 daily
- Performed & devised by: Masters of Choreography
- Age recommendation: 5+
- Ticket price: From £16
- Tickets: Raise the Barre | Edinburgh Festival Fringe
Disclaimer: We received press tickets for this performance, but all thoughts and opinions are entirely our own.
