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Comedy
Adam Kay
Join BAFTA award-winning writer and comedian Adam Kay for an evening of hilarious and horrifying anecdotes, as well as a unique insight into the British healthcare system. A guest host will be your guide as Adam launches his debut novel, A PARTICULARLY NASTY CASE. Expect anecdotes from the wards and readings from the much-anticipated new medical thriller at this one-night only event. Plus Q&A with Adam, author of the global bestseller THIS IS GOING TO HURT. Includes a signed copy of A PARTICULARLY NASTY CASE ahead of it being released in bookshops nationwide.
Alfie Packham: My Apologies to the Chef
Voilà. Alfie serves up another helping of Fringe. This one's about friends and enemies. Bon appétit. As seen on the BBC New Comedy Awards 2024. Writer for News Quiz (BBC Radio 4).
Ali Woods: Basher
Join Ali Woods, star of Comedy Central and Stand Up Sketch Show, after his third sell-out Edinburgh Fringe and sell-out UK tour, for his brand-new show. Known for his viral online sketches (@aliwoodsgigs) with millions of views, Ali Woods has supported comedy greats like Russell Kane, Axel Blake, and Adam Kay. With his unique blend of sharp wit and relatable humour, his performances are a must-see.
Alice Fraser: A Passion for Passion
A comedy show about writing a book about romance. Alice Fraser has fallen in love... with romance novels. She's written a delirious love letter to the genre and now she has to live with the consequences. If you love romance novels, or if you have no idea how anyone could love romance novels, this is the show for you. A show that will make you laugh, cry and rethink happily ever after.
Alice-India: See You In Hell
Alice-India is a sweet widdle baby cherub. But, biblically speaking so was the devil... In this debut hour, Alice-India explores moral relativism and being "one of the girls". Arrested only 10 days before receiving an autism and ADHD diagnosis, often misunderstood, Alice swan dives into good and evil. Black and white. Whether good people exist at all. And, if they do, does anyone want to sleep with them anyway? Fresh from a break-up and a miraculously clean DBS, Alice-India pays the ferryman and takes you across the River Styx. See you in hell, assholes.
Annie Boyle: Smooth Criminal
Following the success of her critically acclaimed debut solo show Annie Are You Ok? Annie returns with Smooth Criminal. This comedic confession of her first arrest explores how the silly, the serious, and the surreal intertwine in life – and in comedy. If you'd been there, if you'd seen it... you would've done the same. As seen on RAW Comedy (State finalist), Comedy Zone and Binge's Colin From Accounts.
Austentatious: An Improvised Jane Austen Novel
The smash-hit West End comedy, as heard on BBC Radio 4, celebrates its 12th glorious year at the Fringe! The all-star cast (featuring Rachel Parris, Cariad Lloyd, Graham Dickson and more) improvise a hilarious new Jane Austen novel every show, inspired entirely by a title from the audience. Performed in period costume with live musical accompaniment – it's a riotous, razor-sharp show where swooning is guaranteed
BATSU! Cowgate
Edinburgh, are you ready? Warriors, are you ready? Created in New York and Chicago, BATSU! returns to the Fringe after a wildly successful, sold-out 2024 run. This high-energy, spectacle pits fearless comedians against each other as they compete to avoid hilarious, jaw-dropping punishments. Inspired by Japanese-style game shows, expect the unexpected in this late-night Fringe hit. With visits from Sake Ninjas to shocking twists like paintball guns, electric shocks, and even a giant chicken - don’t miss the chaos, the laughter and the unforgettable madness that is BATSU! - the wildest show at the Fringe
BATSU! George Square
Edinburgh, are you ready? Warriors, are you ready? Created in New York and Chicago, BATSU! returns to the Fringe after a wildly successful, sold-out 2024 run. This high-energy, spectacle pits fearless comedians against each other as they compete to avoid hilarious, jaw-dropping punishments. Inspired by Japanese-style game shows, expect the unexpected in this late-night Fringe hit. With visits from Sake Ninjas to shocking twists like paintball guns, electric shocks, and even a giant chicken - don’t miss the chaos, the laughter and the unforgettable madness that is BATSU! - the wildest show at the Fringe!
Cerys Bradley’s Queer Tales For Autistic Folk
You find a mysterious door that you have never seen before. Do you open it? If yes – buy a ticket to see this show. If not – why not? Join Cerys Bradley (Actually Autistic Excellence Award 2022, as seen on Comedy Central, UKTV, BBC One Wales) for their wonderful, expansive, interactive choose-your-own-story comedy show.
CSI: Crime Scene Improvisation
No one knows who the killer is, not even the cast! Following multiple five-star sell-out runs, CSI: Crime Scene Improvisation returns with another rip-roaring crime comedy made up entirely on the spot. Leicester Comedy 2023: Best Improv Show Award. Colchester Fringe Comedy Award 2024. Who? What? How? The choice is yours in this fully improvised, witty and absurd murder mystery where the audience creates the crime.
David's One-Man Band (F*ck You, Steven)
Welcome to the mid-noughties world of emo teen and future rockstar, David. He's smart. He's mature. He's memorised a diagram of a vulva and it definitely didn't make him feel sick. And he's here to headline Sticky Floors – the coolest under 16s band night in the Bay Area. But when his bandmate doesn't show, will he handle himself with a sense of poise and rationality? With live renditions of classic rock, original songs and emo bangers.
Dirty Work
Mary Floppins has thrown a shit fit. Wipe the wee from the toilet seat and pick up your dirty undies, because The Perfect Nanny is back to teach all you little boys – and girls – a thing or two about running a prim and proper household. Returning to the UK after sold-out performances at Adelaide Fringe and Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Jessica Barton combines a spoonful of song, dance, clowning, and deep cleaning to present a skanky and empowering Edinburgh Fringe debut.
Drunk Women Solving Crime
Hit comedy podcast Drunk Women Solving Crime is back! After sell-out runs in 2019, 2022 and 2023, hosts Hannah George and Taylor Glenn welcome a guest to "solve" a crime over a glass or two, plus invite an audience member to share their own tale for a prize. Past guests include: Katherine Ryan, London Hughes, Rosie Jones and James Acaster. Every show is unique. 10 dates only, book early!
Edinburgh Comedy Allstars
The biggest, brightest comedians at the Edinburgh Fringe all in one huge show, staged in the famous Udderbelly. A one-stop shop for your comedy fix right in the beating heart of the festival - the big upside-down purple cow. Previous performers have included: Jason Byrne, Nina Conti, Phil Wang, Fern Brady, Ivo Graham, David O'Doherty, Sam Campbell, Joanne McNally, Larry Dean, Amy Gledhill, Ian Smith, Flo & Joan, Olga Koch, Ahir Shah, Every weekend – Friday and Saturday nights. Nightly line-ups will be released soon.
Eli Matthewson: Night Terror
In 2023 my boyfriend tried to kill me in my sleep. We are still going strong. This is a story about theft, anxiety and unforgettable biscuits. A new hour of comedy from one of NZ's best. As seen on Guy Montgomery's Guy Mont-Spelling Bee, Have You Been Paying Attention? NZ, Celebrity Treasure Island. Winner – Best Comedy Dunedin Fringe 2024. Winner – Fred Award 2021 NZ International Comedy Festival.
Fisherman Jon: What's on the End of My Rod? A Clown Odyssey
Jon, a lonely fisherman sailing the seas, catches something unexpected… unbeknownst to Jon, this catch will change his life forever. An evocative and beautiful clown-odyssey told by a loveable idiot discovering the true power of love. This critically acclaimed show is brought to you by an award-winning performer. Bevan's accolades include the Fulwell 73/Comedy 50:50 Award and finalist spots in Funny Women and the British Comedy Guide's Talent Awards.
Foxdog Studios: Robo Bingo 2.0
Fresh bingo, new robots and lower quality prizes. The UK's #1 IT consultants, Pete and Lloyd, have created the best interactive quirky bingo-based experience for introverts. Play using your (charged!) phone, but in a fun way! From the comfort of your seat, control the show, steer a robotic shopping bag, attempt to draw a perfect circle, and become a statistic in our all-new multi-level bingo jail, dungeon and judicial system. If you don't like bingo, come to this. Winner of the 2024 Adelaide Fringe Innovation Award.
Garry Starr: Classic Penguins
Literature! Literature! Literature! It might not rhyme with anything but it's still very important. Garry Starr is back and he's hell-bent on saving books from extinction by performing every Penguin Classic novel ever written. Mostly naked (but with flippers). Comic wunderkind Starr takes us on a literary adventure through the world's most iconic works of fiction. From The Little Prince to Moby Dick and everything in between, nothing is safe from being lampooned with the utmost nincompoopery. 'A very funny man who is peculiarly averse to wearing trousers' ***** (Scotsman).
Geoff Norcott: BASIC BLOKE 2 - There's No Bloke Without Fire
New national tour for star of Have I Got News For You, Is University Really Worth It?, The Last Leg, Would I Lie to You?, Live At The Apollo, 8 Out of 10 Cats, Backstage With Katherine Ryan, The News Quiz, Geoff Norcott's Working Men's Club and many more! This will be Geoff's first UK tour under a Labour government, so he's got plenty to get off his chest. Not least because there's nothing quite so British as being promised a brave new dawn then realising it's as crap.
Grace Jarvis: Just Because I'm Crying Doesn't Mean I'm Not Having a Nice Time
A new hour of stand-up comedy from the Antipodes' most verbose and melancholy good time gal. Grace Jarvis is excited to regale audiences with her tales of living overseas, falling in love, working in a sex shop and getting into notable scrapes on public transport. In the midst of her obligatory move to the UK from Australia,
Jain Edwards: She-Devil
Jain isn't like other girls. She's worse. But she's finally ready to Lean In (and receive a little forehead kiss from hubby). She-Devil is a show about conspiracy theories, autism and men turning on you. Expect silly, subversive comedy from literally the best comedian.
Jeromaia Detto: When I Grow Up...
Award-winning expert in play Jeromaia Detto is back with his most ambitious show yet! What did you want to be when you grew up? A doctor? A florist? Maybe you wanted to be a fish! Whatever the dream, Jeromaia will bring it to life with a stage full of costumes and a heart full of imagination, creating a brand-new show each night based on your childhood dreams.
Jessica Durand: Over The Top
It's 1914. The Great War is destroying Europe. Except it's actually 2025 and Jessica Durand is (very bravely) staging her very own self-insert Downton Abbey fanfiction for a live audience. An absurd one-woman love letter to fandom, queer villainy and trench warfare. No prior knowledge of Downton Abbey (or WWI) is required.
Joe Sutherland: Miss World
As he embarks on his first international tour, Joe 'could have been a dancer' Sutherland is bravely talking about something that, until recently, he's suffered with in silence: being a total hunk. Now that being really sexy is finally accepted in society, Joe is ready to share his story. Groundbreaking stuff from one of the most in-demand comedians in the UK.
Kate Owens: Cooking with Kathryn
Award-winning comedian Kate Owens presents her smash hit, critically acclaimed comedy show. Meet Kathryn: the "star" of her own community cookin' show, wannabe Nigella Lawson, and down-home southern belle with more wine in her veins than Jesus. She's serving up a wacked-out fricassee of absurd recipes, but the main course will be a reckoning with her troubled past and a chaotic encounter with a member of the congregation (maybe it'll be you!).
Killian Sundermann: This Boy is Cracking Up
Killian Sundermann always dreamed of being a rock star. Though his shower renditions of Bohemian Rhapsody haven't quite catapulted him to fame, his comedic talent certainly has. Join him as he takes his sold-out Irish tour show to the Fringe. With rave reviews, Sundermann has gained recognition across platforms, including appearances on RTÉ, Virgin Media Ireland and the Young Hot Guys Podcast. He also boasts a massive following of over half a million online fans.
Knight, Knight
A knight pulls a sword from a stone and, as the prophecy foretold – becomes king. No, not that king. Another one. Totally different one. This one is in love with his horse. A clown tale of courage, duty, determination, brotherhood (shoutout to the round table!), grief, and most of all, horses. A wild romp through a medieval world you thought you knew. A ye olde show brought to you by Madeleine Rowe. Madeleine Rowe (they/them) is a clown, artist, and teacher from Minneapolis, Minnesota. Madeleine recently sold out a run of their clown solo show Honey, I’m Home at Open Eye Theatre. Other theatrical credits include clown opera, Orpheus in the Underworld -a Spymonkey co-production at the Vienna Volksoper- as well as shows with Four Humors, Clarence Brown Theater, and Yellow Tree Theater. Madeleine’s training includes renowned clown teacher Philippe Gaulier, acclaimed British comedy troupe Spymonkey, MFA Actor training from the University of TN, and a BA in performance from Augsburg University.
LEGALISE KISSING
A genre-defying mix of stand-up, surreal storytelling, and live techno anthems, Legalise Kissing is a punk-clown manifesto on love, identity, and modern chaos. Writer for Netflix’s The Gentlemen and now Apple TV, award-winning comedian Theo Mason Wood blends razor-sharp wit with absurdist theatricality, delivering a show that’s as heartfelt as it is unhinged. Fresh from a sold-out preview at Comedy Café Berlin, where audiences raved about its chaotic brilliance, Theo brings a high-energy mix of comedy, character work, and pounding beats to the stage. Winner of the Berlin New Stand-Up Award and semi-finalist in the West End New Act of the Year competition, Theo has performed across Europe, most recently at the prestigious Moth Club in London. At its core, Legalise Kissing explores the absurdity of human connection in an age of chaos—where love, rebellion, and techno collide. Theo’s unpredictable energy, biting satire, and beautifully weird storytelling keep audiences on edge in the best way possible. If you like your comedy bold, smart, and a little unhinged, this is the show for you. Come for the jokes, stay for the manifesto. And maybe, just maybe, leave ready to start a revolution. Book now—kissing optional.
Mitch Benn: The Lehrer Effect
When, years ago, a teenage Mitch discovered American comic songwriting legend Tom Lehrer, the course of his life was changed forever. Mitch looks at the legacy of the elusive Lehrer, the creative debt owed to him by all those who mix humour and melody, and performs some of the more Lehreresque of his own songs. Since Mr Lehrer (at time of writing, still slogging obstinately along at the age of 97) recently placed his entire catalogue in public domain, expect a few Mitch Benn-ified covers of some of Tom's most famous creations as well.
Mr Cardboard
On his loneliest birthday yet, rotten little Huxley is whisked away by the timeless Mr Cardboard! This disturbingly delightful 'unhinged Pixar film' (Audience review) folds the grotesque into the beautiful. It warms the heart and rips it along its perforated edge. Take his hand and think cardboard thoughts! Miles and Levi are two award-winning Philippe Gaulier trained clowns and theatre makers from opposite sides of the world who share a love for the absurdly humorous and unexpectedly affecting.
Nick Hornedo: Watch This When You Get Home
A decade later, Nick and his ex reunite to rewatch the movie and find some closure. Will they succeed? Or will Nick make this just another performance? Find out (and see the video for yourself) in this debut stand-up hour about love, art, and the perils of chasing the impossible plotlines we write for ourselves. Nick Hornedo is a New York stand-up and former political appointee in the Joe Biden Administration. His comedy has been featured on PBS, Vulture, and Pod Save America.
Nina Conti: Whose Face Is It Anyway?
The best-reviewed comedy show of the 2024 Fringe returns! The virtuoso ventriloquist, BAFTA nominee and British Comedy Award winner presents an unparalleled, unscripted show that delves deep into who we are, hijacking faces to spark a bold, hysterical reality warp. Fresh from sell-out runs in the West End and New York, and a sold out national tour.
Outback Comedy
Don't miss out on all Aussie late-night laughs at Outback Comedy! Catch the best and brightest stand-up comedians on the Australian circuit in one place. With a new line-up each night, you're guaranteed a dose of our famous laid-back, self-deprecating humour. Who doesn't love a laugh with a room full of Aussies? Grab your tickets now as they're sure to sell out and join us for a ripper night! For line-up announcements follow @brightsidepresents.
Pear: Phobia
One of the top ten best reviewed shows of Edinburgh Fringe 2024. Six-foot-seven identical twins Hugo and Patrick McPherson, return with their hilarious new show Phobia, a new hour of chaotic sketch comedy. Come and witness the tallest, most identical comedians at the Fringe (not proven, though confidently assumed).
Prashasti Singh: Divine Feminine
Growing up in a patriarchal family, Prashasti naturally had one dream – to become a patriarch herself. Inching towards 40, but pretending to be 30, Prashasti can finally mark this dream complete. But instead of happiness, she finds herself pondering: was the ascent worth the price? Spend an hour with Prashasti as she questions all her life choices and meticulously assigns blame to the women and men who shaped her into this being. As seen on Netflix's Ladies Up, Comedy Premium League and Amazon Prime's Comicstaan.
Sh!t-faced Shakespeare®: A Midsummer Night's Dream
The five-star, multi sell-out, Fringe phenomenon is back! With its hilarious combination of an entirely serious adaptation of Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream and an absolutely sh!t-faced actor! It just wouldn't be the Fringe without it. With a genuinely inebriated cast member each night, no two shows are ever the same in this raucous, riotous rampage through one of Shakespeare's most mischievous plays. Featuring a rotating cast of the finest classically trained actors, partial nudity, foul language, acts of a sexual nature, and actual Shakespeare. Please remember to always #EnjoyShakespeareResponsibly.
Su Mi: THISMOTHERPHUCKER
THISMOTHERPHUCKER is a public nuisance. A dysfunctional anti-clown whose only mission is to destroy ego. Award-winning stand-up and drag performance artist Su Mi presents their debut show: an immersive surreal experience resurrecting every nostalgic moment left forgotten, healing the inner child and seeking to destroy archaic stereotypes and challenge the narrative of comedy whilst navigating a predominantly white cis space. BBC New Comedian of the Year nominee, finalist of Funny Women Awards and Musical Comedy Awards, and Top of the Slops drag superstar.
The Britpop Hour with Marc Burrows
Join award-winning writer-comedian Marc Burrows for a multi-media stand up celebration of one of British music's most iconic and enduring moments, marking 30 years since the Blur vs Oasis chart war. Music journalist Marc (Guardian, The Quietus, Big Issue) dives into the stories, rivalries, OTT personalities and some of the finest music the UK has ever produced. Part nostalgic love letter, part send-up, part rock'n'roll party. DoyaknowwhatImean?.
The Durham Revue: Sketch Marks the Spot
The Durham Revue are marooned on a desert island! How will they get out of this sketchy situation? An hour of raucous comedy! The group that brought you Ed Gamble, Stevie Martin, Nish Kumar, Ambika Mod and more return with a new troupe and 100% new material. Join the award-winning Durham Revue, one of the UK's top student comedy groups, for an hour of hilarious, cutting-edge sketches and laughs for everyone!
Trygve Wakenshaw and Barnie Duncan: Hot Chips
Two men who like making funny shows together have decided to use the cavernous bowels of the Underbelly to stretch and writhe and dream the impossible dream one more time. A brand new show made right in front of you. Trygve lives in Prague and Barnie lives in New Zealand, so they don’t get to hang out very often, but this August they will, and they can’t wait to see what will happen. Physical verbose mime nonsense from two masters of their craftinesses. This one goes like this / that one goes like this It says a lot, without saying much. How do you feel about Hot Chips?
Underbelly's Big Brain Tumour Benefit
Join a massive line-up of comedy stars for a stupendous evening to fight against brain tumours. Brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer for children and adults under 40 and increased funding for research is desperately needed. All box office income will go straight to The Brain Tumour Charity and Underbelly will match this amount as a donation to the charity, doubling the amount that we can raise. Now returning for its 7th year, last year's line-up included Dara O'Briain, Rose Matafeo, Carl Donnelly, Angela Barnes and Milton Jones. Check UnderbellyEdinburgh.co.uk for this year's acts.
Will & Noah: Too Much Time on Their Phones
Will and Noah's attention spans are so eroded, they can't even get to the end of their... huh... oh yeah we're doing a sketch show! In a world where comedy has become a thousand tiny weird videos on a never-ending feed, Will and Noah are investigating what the hell happened to good old-fashioned... whuh... huh... oh yeah we're doing a sketch show!! The Telegraph Best Jokes of the Edinburgh Fringe 2023/2024.
Theatre
...Earnest?
Fans of The Play That Goes Wrong and Noises Off will love this. Returning to the Fringe for the FIFTH time due to phenomenal demand, this Oscar Wilde twist is guaranteed to have you in stitches. When a traditional production of Oscar Wilde's classic play gets underway, everything seems to be going perfectly to plan... that is, until the lead actor fails to arrive on cue.
3 Chickens Confront Existence
In this surrealist and hilarious production, three factory farm chickens passionately explore their impossible situation – awaiting their imminent trip to the broiler. Tragedy morphs to comedy and back again as they explore mysticism, power struggles, class inequality, mythology and religion, with plenty of emotionally charged antics and surprises along the way.
A Small Town Northern Tale
A Y2K-drenched coming of age comedy drama: ASTNT follows David’s move from the city to a small Northern town where being the only Black kid means fitting in isn’t an option. Against the chaos of the 2000s: lads mags, MSN, and questionable fashion, he tries to find his place but fails spectacularly. For fans of 'The Inbetweeners', it’s nostalgic, sharp, and hilarious... But beneath the laughs lies a Black British story about identity, belonging, and carving your place into a world that can’t quite place you.
Brown Girls Do It Too: Mama Told Me Not To Come
In this fierce, funny and frank show, they explore messy realities, fantasies, sexpectations and navigating life and relationships as British Asian women. Their award-winning, groundbreaking BBC Sounds podcast Brown Girls Do It Too, now in its sixth series, has amassed fans who love their honesty and openness, and faced backlash for breaking the silence on sex in Asian communities. With songs, sketches and some graphic content, this is a celebration of brown British women and genital warts.
CADEL: Lungs on Legs
The epic true story of the first Australian to win the Tour de France, live on stage. One actor. One bike. One hour. Performed entirely on a bike in an epic theatrical feat of endurance by acclaimed Australian actor Connor Delves. Pedalling non-stop for an hour, he recreates the thrilling journey of Cadel's 2011 Tour de France win, and all the triumphs, heartaches and sacrifices made along the way.
I AM – A Walking Universe
From the creator of Most Memorable Show (Lustrum Award Winner, 2023). Part of the modular series I AM. Enter the studio of LULA.XYZ, where words come to life. As she attempts to pen the next chapter to her namesake character, the girl next door who just happens to be Eritrean/Ethiopian, life intervenes. It’s the black woman curse. A poetic reflection of overt medical racism happening now in the UK, using wearable technology MiMu gloves (as used by Imogen Heap). Neither a musical, nor drama: a new kind of storytelling.
I AM – One of many, many of One
Winner of the Most Memorable Show, Lustrum Award 2023. Part of the modular series I AM. A first-generation immigrant straddles her Habesha (Eritrean/Ethiopian) heritage and British identity only to realise, when you leave everything behind for the promise of something better, it’s not "better". A poetic reflection on memory loss, displacement, tradition and survival, interwoven with language, customs, music and wearable tech MiMu gloves (as used by Imogen Heap). Neither a musical, nor drama: a new kind of storytelling. Outstanding Performance nominee Filipa Bragança Award, 2023.
I Dream in Colour
'You're fighting for equal rights or some such shit, and that's the problem: I'm still fighting for the right to exist'. Sophie has a choice: surgically remove her one remaining eye containing a tumour, or risk eye cancer. Again. No brainer, right? But her parents have done everything to save this one eye. Can she start valuing herself this time? A semi-autobiographical one-woman show from Jasmine Thien; a fully blind writer, poet and comedian. Directed by Max Percy (Baklâ). Produced by The Project People.
JEEZUS!
Falling for Jesus is a mortal sin. But damn, it feels good! Good South American altar boy Jesús is preparing for his first communion but when he looks at the hot man on the cross, he feels something... unholy. Catholic guilt collides with unrepentant queerness in this sinful, heart-pounding mix of live music, dark humour and Latin heat. JEEZUS! is a musical as irreverent as it is irresistible, tackling colonialism, religion and queer awakening. If Bo Burnham, Brecht and Bad Bunny had a baby, this would be it. Let's burn in hell! Winner of The Untapped Award 2025.
Laura Benanti: Nobody Cares
Laura Benanti: Nobody Cares is a one-woman comedy show from the mind of Tony Award winner Laura Benanti. The New York Times Critic's Pick, Nobody Cares blends side-splitting storytelling with original songs. Known for her dazzling Broadway performances and razor-sharp wit, Benanti takes the stage to share her hilarious, heartfelt, and sometimes brutally honest takes on getting older, people-pleasing, and the absurdity of it all.
Mythos: Ragnarök
Part myth, part mayhem! Hilarious Viking storytelling meets high-octane wrestling in 'the maddest, baddest show on the Fringe' (Daily Mail). Join the adventures of Loki, Thor and legendary gods and monsters in this spectacular adaptation of Norse mythology. Returning from their world tour to make a fourth appearance at the Fringe, this piece of 'genre-bending awesomeness' (HiFiWay.live) is 'so much fun' (List, Pick of the Fringe 2023) and 'the perfect way to tell this story' (Telegraph, Best Shows of 2024). No trip to the Fringe is complete without this 'unmissable blockbuster' (LondonTheatre.co.uk).
Pigs Fly Easy Ryan
An aviation bimbofication transubstantiation ritual for big-boy audiences 18 and over. Two flamin’ hot crash fetishists illegally impersonate flight attendants to sneaky-weeky onto a plane and live their ultimate fantasy – total destruction. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll attempt to feel something, anything, as we erotically cute-ify freedom in the face of climate collapse and rising global fascism. Rip off your own oxygen mask before furiously making out with the person next to you, and brace for landing; Pigs Fly Easy Ryan is checking you out. It’s time to check in.
Playback
It's 2013. Euan's 11. He's got a camcorder, a bowl cut and a dream. But as his fledgling YouTube channel begins to skyrocket, Euan quickly finds that fame isn't as fun as it looks. Shortlisted for the 2024 David MacLennan Award, Playback combines live performance with Euan Munro's real childhood YouTube videos to tell a deeply personal, darkly comic story about growing up online.
Scatter
Scatter, a terrifying new horror play from Patrick McPherson, the award-winning writer of sell-out Edinburgh and Soho Theatre hits The Man and Colossal.
SHUNGA ALERT
Warning: adults only! An X-rated documentary-comedy about the sexual culture of Japan. The story of an artist, a sex doll and a virtual idol trying to create the sexiest shunga of all time, told with clowning, puppetry and live projection. Learn everything you wanted to know about sex in Japan but were too afraid to Google. Filthy, offensive and visually stunning! Don't say we didn't warn you! Winner of Best of the Fest at the San Diego Fringe Festival.
Space Hippo
Earth is dying. Nothing can be done. Our only hope is to launch a hippo into space. Along the way she will encounter new worlds, strange alien creatures and end up at the centre of an intergalactic war. Hilarious, weird and epic science fiction from Japan, experienced through award-winning cinematic shadow puppetry. The performers project over two hundred handmade puppets onto a large screen to create a live analogue motion picture before your very eyes.
Taiwan Season: Dazed and Confused
Magic seamlessly meets theatre in Lin Lu-Chieh's engaging autobiographical solo show. Confident and captivating, this young, self-taught master of prestidigitation offers up a true and touching coming-of-age story that couples delightful 'How did he do that?' sleight-of-hand with warm-hearted observations on the sometimes painful yet often humorous process of growing up. His sincerity and skill shine through. Gently laced with audience participation, this entertaining and universally relatable performance is about finding yourself by doing what you love. Dazed and Confused tells the story of a child growing up in rural Taiwan, discovering their unique talents amidst the trials of life. While it may appear to reflect a typical Asian childhood, the journey unfolds with youthful confusion, experimentation, pain, and failure. These raw experiences resonate unexpectedly with anyone who has ever navigated the path to adulthood. See it and understand just how wondrous and transformative magic can be. European premiere.
The Faustus Project
An actor makes a deal with the devil. This new version of Christopher Marlowe's Doctor Faustus features a rotating cast of brave guest performers taking on the challenges of a devilish ensemble. One problem... they've never rehearsed with the rest of the cast. The Faustus Project is funny, a little dangerous and an actor's worst nightmare. With a fresh victim every night, this will be the ultimate theatrical torture. Funny, dangerous, devilish.
The Monkeypox Gospel
NYC, Summer 2022. Ngofeen gets his first big assignment at The New Yorker. It’s about the global “monkeypox” outbreak, and he’s the ideal reporter: his family comes from the Democratic Republic of Congo (the virus’s origin), and infections are spreading through sexual contact within New York’s queer community, including his own social circle. With a disorganized government response and two million people preparing to attend NYC Pride in a few weeks, getting the word out is critical. But the subject terrifies Ngofeen, having only recently left the evangelical church and broken his vow of lifelong celibacy (i.e. “you can be gay if you don’t act on it”). Now, by writing publicly about a world he rejected for so long, Ngofeen is testing the limits of the person he’s willing to become, while risking a confrontation with the community he’s abandoned. Ngofeen breaks his silence in this personal epidemic tale, featuring behind-the-scenes reporting, real audio interviews, flights of fantasy, and nerdy tangents into theology, science, opera, and language. written by Ngofeen Mputubwele directed by Alex Hare performed by Ngofeen Mputubwele and Alex Hare Adapted from the new podcast. Artwork: @danieleldibujo
WANTED
It was never meant to get to this point. Honestly, it was only ever meant to be one phone. To replace the one Erica had had nicked... and then? Then she met Jessie. After quickly forming an inseparable bond over their mutual loves (Tony Soprano and Lindsay Lohan), Erica and Jessie are on a mission to avenge a world that's only ever left them wanting. But just because Tony Soprano gets to do what he likes... can Erica and Jessie really rationalise their actions? From the creator behind the hit show In PurSUEt, comes... Wanted.
Ways of Knowing
Behold! A council of leeches, a mystic hermit, a Victorian inventor, an economics conference, a dark and dripping cave. Uncovering a mysterious series of visions and omens. Ways of Knowing delves into the ways we predict and prophesy the future. Amidst an intricate system of choreography, found text and live sound, Emergency Chorus wield science and magic to reckon with our precarious present and enter into the unknown. Winner of the Untapped Award, Ways of Knowing follows Emergency Chorus's previous acclaimed shows Landscape (1989) and CELEBRATION.
Yes, We're Related
Dysfunctional sisters Sara and Saskia are forced to confront the unpredictable stages of grief. Sara is living in denial, and Saskia is determined to celebrate the anniversary of their mother’s death with her quirky partner Mark and a party to die for. But when a jaw-dropping secret is revealed, things go from bad, to worse, to catastrophic. Hailed as a comedy echoing the best episodes of Only Fools and Horses, and sisterhood likened to BBC's Fleabag, Lace-Evans' smash-hit dark comedy returns to Fringe. Listed within the 'Top 100 Trending Shows of the Edinburgh Fringe 2024', Yes, We're Related is 'going to be "a thing"' (City AM). Awarded the Keep It Fringe Fund, and developed by SOHO Theatre Labs, YES, WE’RE RELATED became an immediate hit later going on to enjoy a sell-out London run at The Other Palace.
Music
MASSAOKE: 90s Live
Tonight we’re gonna party like it’s 1999. Join the greatest party band of all time for an epic 90s sing-along in McEwan Hall – 2 weekends only! Expect everything from rock to rave, girl power to grunge and Britpop to boybands.
MASSAOKE: Sing The Musicals
This lunchtime sing-along show is a dream come true for musicals fans of all ages, raising the curtain on all your favourite hits from stage and screen. Featuring songs from Mamma Mia, Hamilton, Frozen, The Greatest Showman, Dirty Dancing, Les Mis, Jungle Book, We Will Rock You, Phantom, Mary Poppins and many more... The entire crowd is the real star of this show, singing together guided by lyrics on a giant screen, accompanied by a brilliant live band. Bring the sing!
Musicals and Opera
Hole!
Plug up thy hole! A religious sect in Nebraska wears butt plugs at all times because they believe a wrathful God shall suck the unplugged up, ass-first, to burn on the face of the sun. The crazy thing is… they're right. HOLE! is an epic love story set in the apocalyptic aftermath of The Great Sucking, when the only people left on Earth are the fanatical Nebraskans - and anyone else who happened to be doing butt stuff at the time.
How To Win Against History
Henry Cyril Paget was one of the world's wealthiest men, until he lost it all by being too damn fabulous. This fierce and tragi-gorgeous comedy musical is a true story about expectations, masculinity, privilege and failure on an epic scale. It's about feeling desperately weird and alone but knowing that to fit in would cost you everything. Bristol Old Vic and The Olivier Award-winning Producers of Kathy and Stella Solve a Murder! present the Edinburgh Fringe smash-hit in a new production for 2025, marking the 150th anniversary of Paget’s birth.
Mary, Queen of Rock!
The Queen of Rock is back! The year is 1561. The Scottish Reformation has enforced an outright ban on rock'n'roll. Cue the arrival of Mary Stuart, one of the world's biggest and most iconic musical artists... who happens to be the undisputed Queen of Rock! With the Scottish nobles and her cousin in England against her, can Mary get the country rocking? Or will heads roll?
Medusa Uncut: A New Musical
With a pistol in her belt and the god of death in the passenger seat, Medusa's on the road for revenge. But in a world where gods play dice with the lives of men, who can you trust to have your back? From the creators of Unfortunate comes a mythical new musical with a wild western twist. With a dark country soundtrack, Medusa: Uncut is a fast-paced, adrenaline-fuelled car chase loaded with sex, violence and topless minotaurs. Look out, here she comes.
Cabaret and Variety
Apocalypse Cabaret: Songs for the End of the World
A lonely karaoke jockey is the sole survivor at the end of the world, and decides to go out singing. A darkly hilarious, high-octane spectacle, where Nietzsche meets the Spice Girls, and the world ends in song. Chanteuse, comedian, and chaos enthusiast Scout Durwood (MTV’s Mary + Jane) hailed as 'brazen, brass' (Vogue), makes a powerhouse Fringe debut packed with original songs, pop bangers, audience interaction, and existential musings. This full-throttle celebration of life at the edge of the abyss asks the big question: is there time for one more song?
Bernie Dieter's Club Kabarett
Join kabarett provocateur Bernie Dieter as her gin-soaked haus band soundtracks a debauched night of breathtaking circus, gender-bending aerial and fire-breathing sideshow at its most provocative and hilarious best. Club Kabarett is more than just a show; 'It's an exuberant, juicy, guns-blazing performance that makes other cabarets look stale and tame' (ArtsHub.com.au). A triumphant middle finger held up against the mundane, this wickedly funny show is a life-affirming lightning bolt of pure, unadulterated joy!
James Phelan – The Man Who Was Magic
Dare to believe in magic, in a brand new show where the impossible becomes possible. James Phelan – star of The Dreamer, the UK's most successful touring magic show – presents this dazzling five star show that will leave you aching with laughter and dizzy in disbelief. This magic show is nothing like you've ever seen. It's uplifting, heartwarming, amazing. Tickets likely to sell out, don't miss it!
Children's Shows
Foxdog Studios: Robo Bingo Kids
Ages 8 to 8,000: the thrills of bingo, robot frogs and low-cost prizes for the whole family. The UK's #1 IT consultants, Pete and Lloyd, present the perfect all-ages, interactive quirky bingo-based experience. Play using your (charged!) phone, but in a fun way! From the comfort of your seat, control the show, steer a robotic shopping bag and attempt to draw a perfect circle. Just bring your phone. There's no app to install, it works in your normal browser. No technical skill required; we'll get everyone connected before it starts.
Mario the Maker Magician
Mario the Maker Magician returns for a limited season only! Bringing his robot magic live from New York, Mario returns to Edinburgh with a show full of original magic, handmade robots and modern slapstick. Fast-paced, interactive and full of heart, Mario leads you through a romping explosion of contagious energy and belly laughs. For kids, adults, families, everyone! As seen on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Sesame Street, Universal Kids and live on tour with David Blaine.
Out of the Box
This family-friendly comedy show is packed with surprises as Darryl and his mysterious box take you on a whirlwind of wonder. Every time the box opens, it's a new adventure: trick shots, circus performances and laugh-out-loud moments that invite everyone to join in the fun. Darryl's mission is to make you the star of the show (no embarrassing moments here, just pure joy!). With Darryl's gentle, non-verbal clowning, everyday objects transform into the extraordinary. This show is a joyous celebration of play throughout your life, whatever your age, bringing generations together through seriously skillful silliness.
The Mequetrefo
In this family-friendly show created by Parlapatões, a renowned Brazilian theatre and circus company, four clowns, called 'Dias' (Portuguese for 'days'), embark on a journey through the day, filled with laughter and surprises. They break the rules of everyday life, discovering endless possibilities. Ordinary moments turn into hilarious adventures in their world, inspired by Edward Lear, the poet and illustrator who coined the term 'nonsense'. This show blends pantomime and clowning, featuring a performance rich in visuals and sound effects. The Parlapatões Group is an incredibly successful and long-standing theatre group with an impressive history of 34 years. Over the years, they have produced no less than 70 shows, including plays, street theatre, circus and children's shows, always with an original and unmistakable language. The group operates from its base at Espaço Parlapatões, a significant cultural venue situated in the heart of São Paulo. Since it opening its doors in 2006, this venue has produced and hosted a huge number of annual shows, festivals and events, and has become a real icon in the city of São Paulo. It's a place where theatre and circus artists from all over the country come together. As well as premiering new shows and running seasons, the group also tours its repertoire of shows throughout Brazil, bringing its vibrant energy and originality to audiences across the country.
The Tale of the Loneliest Whale
“I can hear someone out there. They’re singing to me.” Whale sings his heart out into the deep blue sea... but nobody sings back. Is he the only one like him in the whole ocean? Just when he’s about to give up, a mysterious voice echoes through the waves. Determined to find the singer, Whale embarks on an unforgettable adventure—diving through glowing coral caves, dodging wibbly jellyfish, and facing wild-eyed sea monsters! But will he ever find a friend who hears his song? Join Hoglets Theatre for an exciting deep-sea adventure packed with huge, beautiful puppets, hilarious sea creatures, original songs, and lots of audience interaction! The Tale of the Loneliest Whale is a magical, interactive show that celebrates friendship, difference, and the beauty of being yourself. A beautiful new play from the makers of Wood Owl And The Box Of Wonders (Ed Fringe 2024). Hoglets Theatre creates exciting theatre and storytelling experiences for children and families. Our productions are filled with energetic performances, original songs and music, puppets and immersive storytelling techniques. They are designed to be rich and engaging, whilst being flexible enough to perform almost anywhere. www.hoglets.org.uk
Trash Test Dummies Circus
Everyone put your rubbish out, tonight's bin night and the Trash Test Dummies are on duty! This award-winning, side-splitting, slapstick comedy, circus routine retakes the household wheelie bin to new heights and delivers a dump truck full of hilarity! Returning after delighting audiences in 2024 and winners of the Best Children's Presentation at the Adelaide Fringe Festival 2016 and 2015, the Trash Test Dummies are as full of laughs as their bins are full of surprises.
Dance Physical Theatre and Circus
Black Blues Brothers: Let's Twist Again!
Fringe favourites the Black Blues Brothers are back with a brand-new show, fit for the whole family. After wowing over 50,000 fringe spectators the Brothers make their McEwan Hall debut. Set in a smoky train station against a soundtrack of unforgettable rockn'roll music, witness breathtaking acrobatic stunts, human pyramids and fire routines. Featuring songs by Glenn Miller, Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin, get ready to go wild as the Brothers astonish and delight. Following four successful Fringe seasons, appearances at the Royal Variety Show and The Moulin Rouge, don’t miss out!