Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre
About
Sharmanka is one of the most extraordinary and overlooked attractions in Scotland. Hidden in a workshop at the Trongate in Merchant City, Russian sculptor Eduard Bersudsky has been building mechanical sculptures from carved wooden figures and old scrap metal since he arrived in Glasgow in 1989. In performances, these intricate machines come alive — hundreds of carved figures, wheels, levers, and mechanisms performing choreographed shows to music and light. The performances are mesmerising, funny, dark, and deeply moving. Each machine tells a story — about labour, death, love, oppression, joy. The craftsmanship is astonishing; you could spend hours examining the detail in each sculpture. Shows typically last about 45 minutes to an hour, and the intimate setting (you're sitting right among the machines) makes it genuinely immersive. This is the kind of place that exists nowhere else on earth. It's not a museum, it's not quite theatre, it's not exactly art — it's its own category. Shows are limited (usually Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons), so book ahead. A genuine hidden wonder.
https://www.sharmanka.com/ 0141 552 7080
Tickets & Pricing
Adult £10, Concessions £7. Family tickets available.
Opening Times
Shows: Thu 19:00, Sun 15:00. Check website for current schedule.
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