Inside The UK’s Largest Sauna: Morning Sauna Rave Review | Zoe Sievwright
Image credit: Ian Georgeson
★★★★★
Morning Sauna Rave at Summerhall completely redefines what live theatre, wellness, and morning entertainment can be. Earning a resounding five stars, this show is unlike anything I have ever attended before. Taking place at 10:30am without a drop of alcohol in sight, the concept of combining live performance, deep sensory immersion, and high-energy music inside a fully functioning sauna is something I never thought I would experience, yet there it was, executed to perfection. It is an extraordinary and exhilarating celebration that leaves you feeling completely rejuvenated and thoroughly entertained.
The centrepiece of the production is the incredible traditional Aufguss ritual, led by an internationally renowned towel master brought in from Denmark specifically for the event. Rooted in the rich cultural history of Scandinavian and European sauna traditions, this ancient art form elevates simple steam into a spectacular physical performance. His display is nothing short of breath-taking as he executes intricate towel-spinning routines, weaving through the space and creating powerful, rhythmic heat waves with effortless grace despite the intense temperature inside the sauna. To elevate the sensory journey even further, he infuses the hot coals with soothing, aromatic herbs and expertly fans the fragrant steam directly toward the audience.
Visually and audibly, the production design inside Summerhall is wonderful. Through the large glass viewing panel, we can see a live DJ spinning an incredible track list, seamlessly bridging the gap between a relaxing spa retreat and a joyful morning party. The interior lighting transforms the steam-filled room into a glowing paradise, with colourful disco lights illuminating the space and the coals in the middle lit up in stunning, vibrant hues. In between the structured performances, the audience is enthusiastically invited to get up and dance along to timeless classics like Cornershop's ‘Brimful of Asha’ (on the 45!), creating a shared sense of pure, uninhibited joy for everyone.
Morning Sauna Rave succeeds because it dares to be completely original while honouring the deep heritage of sauna culture, proving that you don't need late nights or alcohol to have a blast. It balances high-energy euphoria with deep sensory relaxation in a way that feels utterly fresh, healthy, and unforgettable. The combination of great DJing, hypnotic towel choreography, colourful lighting, and communal dancing makes it a standout highlight of the festival circuit. It is an absolute masterpiece of immersive entertainment, an all-around incredible show, and a well-deserved five-star event that you simply must experience for yourself.
Morning Sauna Rave took place at Sauna Theatre, Summerhall from 6-31 August as part of Edinburgh Fringe.
By Zoe Sievwright
