Top Gilded Balloon comedy shows to see before the Fringe
A chance to catch some top comedy before the crowds descend in August
It goes without saying that we have great love and tremendous anticipation for the Fringe every single year, especially at this point in the calendar when the sheer chaos of it all has blurred into a beautiful, distant sweet memory.
But wouldn't it be nice to see some of those shows in Edinburgh before the madness of August begins? Better still, a chance to see some top comedians performing the very shows they'll be bringing to the capital, but at only a fiver a pop? And better again, the option of seeing three shows for just £12, less than the price of one regular Fringe ticket?
Gilded Balloon are doing exactly that with a series of previews at their Basement Theatre venue on Edinburgh's Rose Street. Opened last year, it's the comedy stalwart's year-round home for cabaret, comedy and theatre in the heart of the West End, so it's the perfect place to catch a slice of Fringe goodness before the crowds arrive. Here are a few of our favourites.
Tom Stade: Work in Progress
The laidback Canadian presents a follow up to last year's show, called I Swear To…. You can also catch him working on new material for two shows with some special guests.
Wed 9 May, Sat 9 & Wed 20 Jun, & Fri 6 Jul
Mawaan Rizwan: Work in Progress
Surreal comedy from a comedian who came to the fore on YouTube, with over 19 million views.
Thu 17 May
Jay Lafferty: Wheesht (Work in Progress)
Brand new show from the fifth best rated show at last year's Fringe.
Thu 17 May
Lou Sanders: Shame Pig
The comedian relives her most shameful experiences.
Thu 31 May
Jayde Adams: Work in Progress
A Best Newcomer nominee at the Edinburgh Comedy Awards in 2016, the Bristolian goes full diva in this musical extravaganza.
Thu 7 Jun
Larry Dean: Work in Progress
Confessional storytelling from the former Scottish Comedian of the Year, a Fringe veteran yet somehow still only in his 20s.
Thu 14 Jun
Maisie Adam: Work in Progress
Last year's So You Think You're Funny award winner presents her debut show.
Thu 14 Jun
Ahir Shah: Work in Progress
Whip-smart topical comedy from the comedian who was a Best Show nominee at last year's Fringe.
Thu 28 Jun
Alfie Brown: Whatever Works
Edgy and acerbic comedian Alfie presents his new show. Which reminds us: we really enjoyed his mum's show last year.
Thu 5 Jul
All shows at the Basement Theatre, Edinburgh, £5 or three shows for £12. Check out gildedballoon.co.uk for the full list of Edinburgh Fringe previews.