Celebrate the Year of the Horse with an inspiring afternoon of culture, storytelling, and performance at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.
In collaboration with Heriot‑Watt University’s 2026 festivities, this special event honours courage, identity, tradition, and the spirited energy of the Horse through an immersive cultural experience and a captivating staging of The Ballad of Mulan.
Event programme
3.15pm - 4pm: Pre‑show cultural experience
Experience the elegance and richness of Chinese culture with:
- Traditional calligraphy demonstrations
- Live classical Chinese music performed on authentic instruments
- Complimentary Chinese tea throughout the event
- Cultural showcase featuring brushwork, artistry, and heritage traditions
- Mascots available for purchase, £3.50 (card only). All proceeds donated to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.
4pm - 5.30pm: Performance of Mulan
Woman. Warrior. Legend.
For ten years, Mulan, disguised as a man, has fought for the Chinese Empire. Now, as the war comes to an end, she faces her greatest challenge yet: can she return to her old life and become a woman again?
A powerful story of identity, resilience, and courage in a violent world.
From the creators of the Edinburgh Fringe sell‑out The Unknown Soldier - Grist to the Mill, in collaboration with British‑East‑Asian theatre company Red Dragonfly, brings you the story of the real Chinese heroine who inspired Disney’s beloved Mulan.
- Showtime: 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
- Meet the Performer: 5:00 pm – 5:20 pm
Presented by
Red Dragonfly Productions & Grist to the Mill Productions
Written and directed by: Ross Ericson
Performed by: Michelle Yim