Gilded Balloon Teviot

The Gilded Balloon is one of the largest and most well-known venues at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The Gilded Balloon has experienced a dramatic evolution from its modest origins of one studio theatre with seven shows per day in 1986, to operating nine venues with over 130 shows per day featuring performers from across the globe in 2015! The Gilded Balloon’s position as a premier venue is based on intriguing, imaginative, adventurous and international programming covering exciting dance and physical theatre, spine-chilling plays and challenging drama and children’s shows. The venue’s reputation, however, comes from promoting, supporting and nurturing comedy, presenting the cream of stand-up, improvisation and character comedy.

What's On @ Gilded Balloon Teviot

Theatre

Cabaret

Magic

Elliot Bibby: Abracadada

5 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Insane Productions Ltd Comedy. Magic. Parenting. What could possibly go wrong? In Abracadada, Elliot Bibby (co-creator of sell-out sensation 1 Hour of Insane Magic) delivers a fun, high-energy magic show for all ages. He explores the triumphs and total mayhem of life as a professional magician and dad of two. Packed with big laughs and jaw-dropping tricks, it's where parenting hacks meet impossible illusions. Perfect family entertainment at the Fringe. Fast-paced, friendly, and guaranteed to entertain audiences from ages 5 to 95. 'Cheeky, charming magician' \*\*\*\*\* (EdinburghSpotlight.com). Audience participation

Theatre

Cabaret

Magic

1 Hour of Insane Magic

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Insane Productions Ltd Cameron Gibson, Elliot Bibby and Luke Osey return for their fourth year as Insane Magic, bigger and more spectacular than ever before! Following multiple sell-out seasons, the trio present a fun-filled hour of jaw-dropping magic for everyone! Now in a larger venue; expect incredible new illusions, high-energy performances and plenty of moments of wonder. With international acclaim and five-star reviews, Insane Magic has been hailed as 'truly a global phenomenon' \*\*\*\*\* (WorldMagicReview.com). This is world-class magic that will leave the entire family amazed, laughing and believing in the impossible. Audience participation, Strobe lighting

FLOP! The Best Songs From The Worst Musicals

Theatre

Cabaret

FLOP! The Best Songs From The Worst Musicals

6 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Arthur Hull presented by Seabright Live Arthur Hull returns with an updated version of his blockbusting musical cabaret celebrating Theatreland's casualties. This love letter to Broadway and the West End features a motley assortment of the misunderstood, critically panned and financially catastrophic musical misfires, including forgotten gems and pleas for redemption! Best Entertainment Award (DarkChat, Edinburgh Fringe 2025). Best Emerging Artist Award (Adelaide Fringe 2025). 'Arthur Hull's an absolute joy' \*\*\*\*\* (List). 'FLOP! is an utter triumph' \*\*\*\*\* (WestEndBestFriend.co.uk). 'Brings the house down' \*\*\*\*\* (SeeDoEatReview.com). 'Undoubted smash' \*\*\*\*\* (TheRecs.co.uk). 'A star is born!' \*\*\*\*\* (TheRealChrisparkle.com). 'Stand-out' \*\*\*\*\* (TheatreDiaries.adl). Audience participation Age category: 12+

Theatre

Wiesenthal

6 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

NJNG Productions & Seabright Live Returning to Fringe following sell-out 2023 debut and London transfer. Based on the life of Simon Wiesenthal, who survived the Holocaust and devoted the rest of his life to bringing Nazi war criminals to justice. Filled with hope, humanity and humour, it is the story of an ordinary man who did extraordinary things. Intelligent, flawed and noble, Wiesenthal's heroism is honoured in this play which takes place on his final working day in his Vienna office in 2003. By Tom Dugan, performed by Christopher C Gibbs, directed by Mark Liebert. 'Impeccably conceived' \*\*\*\*\* (Scotsman). 'Immaculately constructed' \*\*\*\*\* (BroadwayBaby.com). Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes Age category: 14+

Comedy

Improv

ShakeItUp: The Improvised Shakespeare Show

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

ShakeItUp Theatre in association with Benjamin Alborough Shakespeare hasn't written anything new for an age, so we thought we would give him a hand... Using his language, your audience suggestions and our overactive imaginations, we create a brand new Shakespeare play live on stage, complete with big laughs, high drama, and plenty of Bard-based Bedlam! 'Quick-witted, inexhaustible and absolutely hysterical' \*\*\*\*\* (LondonTheatreReviews.co.uk). 'Brilliantly bonkers! One of the best improvised shows at the Fringe' \*\*\*\*\* (WestEndBestFriend.co.uk). 'Masters of improv, brilliant fun for all' \*\*\*\*\* (TheatreScotland.co.uk). 'This is a must see' \*\*\*\*\* (AYoungishPerspective.co.uk). Audience participation Age category: 12+

Comedy

Sketch

Biscuit Barrel: The 69-Sketch Show

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

The Biscuit Barrel 69 sketches in an hour! 'Sketch perfection' \*\*\*\*½ (TheReviewsHub.com). Fresh off Hollywood Fringe, Biscuit Barrel return for their seventh Edinburgh run with more slapstick, songs, wordplay, biscuits and even beatboxing. 'Non-stop laughs. A wee masterpiece' \*\*\*\*\* (TheMumble.uk). 'This show fires on all cylinders. Phenomenally talented troupe' \*\*\*\* (Edinburgh-Reviews.co.uk). 'An excellent comedy show' \*\*\*\* (BroadwayBaby,com). As seen at Hollywood Fringe, Brighton Fringe, Leicester Comedy Festival, BBC Scotland and BBC Radio Bristol. Audience participation, Strong language/swearing Age category: 14+

Comedy

Stand-up

Married at Fringe Sight

5 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Milli Productions An exciting crowd-work show where the audience decide who gets married today, by the end of the show! You have the power, using our app, to decide who is getting married! Our comedians will find out what the audience is really like while you get to decide who makes the perfect pairing and decide who is going to get Married at Fringe (first) Sight! From the team that The Guardian called 'an institution' and Attitude Magazine called 'hilariously funny... inspirational'. 'A true masterclass in crowd work' (NorthWestEnd.co.uk). Don't forget your hat! Audience participation, Strong language/swearing Age category: 16+

Christopher Hall: Pizazz

5 Aug 2026 - 18 Nov 2026

Showman, Jester, Attention Chaser, come with Chris on the ultimate hometown holiday night out. From your 1.5 star hotel, he’ll give you a hilariously fun soirée and have you tucked up back in bed at a sensible time. Christopher Hall, once first on the dancefloor and last on the night bus is now in his early mid 30s (very different to the late early's) and reflecting on his younger life-of-the-party self. This theatrical showboy started out putting on shows in the front room for his parents then spent his early and late mid 20s have danceoffs in Soho’s gay bars and performing in musicals on cruise ships. Background Singers featuring collabs with Sugababes, Natasha Bedingfield, Sophie Ellis Bextor and Shania Twain shot him to fame on Instagram and TikTok. Now Chris is back IRL with his new, brilliantly hilarious stand up show, with a high possibility of an outbreak of dancing. This chorus boy takes centre stage for a fun, glamorous and unforgettable night, don't miss your chance to get your dose of ‘Pizazz’. Presented by Mick Perrin Worldwide. Suitable 18+

Comedy

Storytelling

Aoife Dunne: Good Grief

5 Aug 2026 - 16 Aug 2026

Aoife Dunne After selling out her Edinburgh Fringe run and theatres across Ireland and the UK in 2025, Aoife Dunne returns with her acclaimed debut Good Grief. As one of the most exciting new voices in Irish comedy, Dunne mixes stand-up, theatrical storytelling and moments of profound emotional truth in this unmissable show. Good Grief has been praised by audiences and critics alike for its warmth, humour and knockout performance. 'Hilarious... her command of the stage is absolute' \*\*\*\* (Chortle.co.uk). A comedy show like no other, that will make you laugh, cry and leave feeling joyfully alive. Strong language/swearing, More information Includes themes of death and grief. Age category: 16+

Theatre

HESS

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

HESS 2026 Fifty years after its original creation, Michael Burrell's HESS returns to Edinburgh in a revival that feels startlingly, even uncomfortably, relevant. Written in 1976, the play probes the psychology of a man consumed by extremist ideology, revealing the personal and political devastation such beliefs can unleash. What once read as a historical character study now lands with renewed force in a world marked by rising hatred, deepening political division, and ongoing humanitarian crises. This revival challenges audiences to confront the unsettling truth that the forces Burrell explored half a century ago have not faded – they have resurfaced. None Age category: 12+

Theatre

Comedy

Sims Holland: Learning to Human

5 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Sims Holland Award-winning solo show. Join US comic actor Sims Holland on her Edinburgh debut as she recounts her rollercoaster journey from the depths of addiction to the challenging – and often hilarious – road of sobriety. Speckled with poetry, dotted with dance numbers and doused in honesty, Learning to Human is a heartfelt exploration of what it takes to reclaim your life. Winner: Best Autobiographical Show, United Solo, NYC 2024. Winner: Best of the Fest, Frontera Fest ATX 2024. Nominee: B Iden Payne Award, ATX 2024. 'Searing, soul bearing and completely unforgettable' (BroadwayWorld.com). Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes Age category: 16+

Comedy

Stand-up

Storytelling

Phil Nichol: The Naked Racist

5 Aug 2026 - 18 Aug 2026

Lee Martin for Gag Reflex 20th anniversary of the 2006 Edinburgh Comedy Award winning show. The unhinged re-telling of an Amsterdam trip gone wrong ending with an epiphany of epic proportions. 'You won't see many comedy shows that actually exert g-force. Exhilarating, incredibly funny and clever' (Scotsman). 'This is a show that makes you laugh and think while you are watching and then wakes you up in the night to laugh and think again' (Scotsman). 'Mind-blowing. Infectious joy' \*\*\*\*\* (Scotland on Sunday). Nudity, Strong language/swearing, More information Will contain adult themes of sex and drugs.

Mel Hudson: Richard Ashcroft Revived My Libido

Comedy

Stand-up

Mel Hudson: Richard Ashcroft Revived My Libido

5 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Blue Book Artist Management in association with MMBCreative See how Mel Hudson revived her libido, courtesy of Richard Ashcroft. In 2022 Mel thinks her love life is over. She is prepared to go to her grave as a sexually redundant cat lady. Then 3 things happen: lockdown ends, the cat dies and Mel attends a momentously revitalising musical event at Crystal Palace Park Bowl. Suddenly men are not so paused. From Alan Partridge, The Catherine Tate Show, Hudson and Pepperdine. 'What an honest, funny show, cleverly insightful and life affirming' (Phil Clarke, Producer of Peep Show). Scenes of a sexual nature Age category: 16+

Comedy

Charlene Kaye: Diversity Shredder

5 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Charlene Kaye Welcome to the unhinged, razor-sharp, fluorescent universe of Charlene Kaye: guitar god, internet legend and 'breakout comedy star' (Rolling Stone). This Fringe, she will debut her brand-new show: Diversity Shredder! A madcap tour of Charlene's experience as an Asian woman guitar shredder – from trolling men in Guitar Center, to standing behind white pop stars just to get that bag, to starting endless all-girl cover bands like Guns N' Hoses and Labiahead. Being an Asian female guitar shredder is fun if you're a menace. Scenes of a sexual nature, Strobe lighting, Strong language/swearing Age category: 16+

Music

Primary School Bangers

5 Aug 2026 - 16 Aug 2026

James B Partridge Viral sensation and Britain's favourite teacher James B Partridge is heading back on the road in 2026 and following extraordinary demand, he's bringing the Primary School Bangers back for an encore at Edinburgh Fringe! Beginning as playful performances for his pupils, the show has grown into a genuine national phenomenon. From viral online fame to a field-closing Glastonbury set (featured on BBC festival highlights) James has become the UK's most beloved musical nostalgia act. This is more than a tour, it's a collective singalong, decades in the making! None Age category: 12+

Comedy

Not Another Quiz Night

5 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Mick Perrin Worldwide in association with Mirador Group presents The critically acclaimed, sell out, unmissable late-night hit is back, bigger than ever! Join Jake Bhardwaj and "celebrity" guests for the most chaotic, high-energy quiz show in town. Expect music, comedy, interactive bonus rounds and surprise appearances. 'I can confidently say this is the best show I've seen' \*\*\*\*\* (GetYourCoatsOn.com). 'You leave feeling like you have just been at the greatest... late-night party' \*\*\*\*\* (BroadwayBaby.com). 'Breathless, non-stop fun' \*\*\*\*\* (Ralph Magazine). 'One of the most entertaining and mad things I've seen' (Joe Lycett). 'One of those rare shows that makes controlled chaos look effortless' (Jordan Gray). Audience participation, Audience required to walk or move around during the performance, Strobe lighting, Strong language/swearing

Comedy

Friendliest

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Drew Lausch Drew Lausch grew up gay in Fargo, North Dakota. So he did what any emotionally stable teenager would do: invented the world's first gay superhero. Years later, he's still trying to save himself. Friendliest is a dark, funny and quietly devastating solo show about first love, small-town repression and the creative impulse to rewrite your own origin story. Blending biting stand-up with raw storytelling, Drew unpacks the boy he hurt, the hero he built, and the mess in between. It's sharp, intimate and occasionally feral. Written and performed by Drew Lausch. Directed by Jenny Leon. Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Scenes of a sexual nature, Scenes of sexual violence, Scenes of violence, Strong language/swearing Age category: 16+

Comedy

An Intimate Evening with Tabitha Booth

5 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Frankie McNair After a mystery hiatus, credit card debt and, in an act of pure desperation, heavily-medicated starlet Tabitha Booth returns to the stage with a comeback show no-one was expecting... or asked for! A retrospective of her life's work with all the off-off-OFF-Broadway hits you've never heard and love. It's an evening of unhinged character comedy like no other. Tabitha Booth is the horrible brainchild of award-winning comedian Frankie McNair. Hello! WINNER: Best Newcomer, Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2022. Audience participation, Nudity

Comedy

Stand-up

Late'n'Live

7 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Gilded Balloon The original late-night show returns with stellar line-ups of your favourite acts from the festival, hosted by the best MCs in the country, every single night of the Fringe. 'The best late-night show on the Fringe' (Scotsman). 'A Fringe institution for a reason' (TheRecs.co.uk). Previous acts include Johnny Vegas, Bill Bailey, Rich Hall, Jason Byrne, Mawaan Rizwan, John Bishop, Larry Dean, Maisie Adam, Reuben Kaye, Jordan Grey, Viggo Venn and just about every notable name in comedy. Late'n'Live guarantees an unforgettable night of live comedy and is an essential addition to any Fringe bucket list. Strong language/swearing Age category: 16+

Comedy

Stand-up

Yvette Segan: Guy's Girl

5 Aug 2026 - 17 Aug 2026

AEG Presents Yvette's not like other girls. She's a guy's girl. She's going to spend an hour failing the Bechdel Test by doing jokes about a variety of topics including but not limited to situationships, gun violence and her dad. You'll laugh and maybe gasp if she crosses a line by accident and then wins you back after that, but you definitely won't cry!! None Age category: 16+

Comedy

Stand-up

Storytelling

Hannah Byczkowski: Killer

5 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Blue Book Artist Management Winner of the first season of BBC's The Traitors, Hannah Byczkowski digs into death in her debut hour. In her hilarious, no-nonsense style, Hannah explores everything from craft projects for loved one's ashes, funeral faux pas and why she's not running from serial killers. Hannah is the co-host and creator of the hit podcast Ghost Huns with over 5 million listens and 1.3 million followers on TikTok. NTA winner. TV also includes The Stand-Up Sketch Show (ITV2) and Celebrity Weakest Link (BBC One). 'Want to howl with laughter? See Hannah. She is a comedy goddess' (Claudia Winkleman). Strong language/swearing Age category: 16+

Comedy

Stand-up

Storytelling

Fab Goualin: Mixed Messages

5 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

AEG Presents Edinburgh debut from BBC New Comedy Award 2025 semi-finalist, Leicester Square Theatre New Comedian of the Year 2025 finalist and So You Think You're Funny? 2024 finalist, Fab Goualin. A show about being mixed-race, middle class, and misunderstood. Growing up, Fab often being the only person of colour in the room meant a lifetime of awkward assumptions, accidental anthropology, and people confidently explaining his own identity to him. Too "something" for certain crowds, not "something enough" for others, he became a master of the code-switch. But the real confusion wasn't just external, it was internal. None Age category: 16+

Theatre

Crocodile Rock

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Sleeping Warrior with A Play, A Pie and A Pint Trapped on the sleepy Scottish island of Cumbrae, seventeen-year-old Steven McPhail feels like an outsider dreading a dead-end future. He desperately needs an escape – and he's about to find it. When a dazzling encounter with a flamboyant stranger opens his eyes, Steven steps out of the shadows to embrace his authentic self. Crocodile Rock is a 'heart-rendering exploration of sexuality' (ScotsGayArts.com) and a hilarious, touching journey of self-discovery. With a soaring original score, this five-star show is a 'fabulous musical... a must-see' (The ReviewsHub.com), featuring a 'tour-de-force' (Herald) performance by Darren Brownlie. Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Scenes of violence, Strong language/swearing Age category: 12+

Comedy

Storytelling

Olivia Raine Atwood: Oops

5 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Fringe Management LLC She's a professional matchmaker who accidentally set up her college boyfriend with her high school bully. Sorta like if Ron set up Hermione with Malfoy. Or Romeo set up Juliet, with someone who bullied Romeo. You know. Like that. You get it. Comedy.co.uk recommended show. Top Ten Solo Shows of Hollywood Fringe (StageTakes.com). 'Side-splitting comedy' (TheEdinburghReporter.co.uk). 'Hypersonic physicality' \*\*\*\* (MumbleComedy.net ). Top 9 Shows to See: Edinburgh Reporter. Featured: BBC, NPR and Off-Broadway. From the creator of Faking It, a five-star, award-winning, FringeReview.co.uk Highly Recommended Show and Off-West-End hit. None Age category: 12+

Comedy

This Is My Baby: Live Podcast!

6 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

David Ian and Sarah Hester Ross Celebrating the milestones nobody throws a shower for... until now. Join comedians Sarah Hester Ross (all the way from Las Vegas) and David Ian (all the way from London) for live recordings of This Is My Baby. Their new podcast celebrates achievements that don't come with a ring or a registry. Because not all life milestones are weddings or babies; some are quitting a job, surviving a year, or finally choosing yourself. Featuring engaging interviews and real stories, we give flowers to the wins that usually get a polite nod instead of a party. Strong language/swearing Age category: 16+

Gregor Fisher: An (Early) Evening With Gregor Fisher

Comedy

Storytelling

Gregor Fisher: An (Early) Evening With Gregor Fisher

15 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Fiery Entertainment Join the Scottish stage and screen legend for a laughter-filled hour in conversation, as he shares stories and anecdotes from his life and career, which has seen him bring iconic characters to life in such classic titles as the multi BAFTA award-winning Rab C Nesbitt (BBC Two), Naked Video (BBC Two), The Baldy Man (ITV), Love Actually, and most recently BBC One's hit sitcom Only Child. The show promises plenty of laughs, a few surprises and a bit of honesty about the daft and wonderful journey Gregor's had over the decades. None Age category: 16+

Comedy

Juliette Burton: Villain Era

5 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Juliette Burton As the sun sets, a new antihero awakens. Calling all big-hearted heroes! Award-winning comedian Juliette Burton is summoning YOU. Join the dark side in a comedy quest for grown-up geeks and justice-hungry joy seekers ready to battle the REAL dragons: inequality and bad sex lives. It's time to iron out the kinks! Burton brings armour of hard truths, high fantasy and hilarity. Live nerdgasms possible. 'Fun, fabulous, relatable, and a safe space for nerds. \*\*\*\* (Edinburgh-Reviews.co.uk). Praise for previous shows: 'Hilarious' \*\*\*\*\* (EdFestMag.com). 'Marvellous' \*\*\*\*\* (StarburstMagazine.com). \*\*\*\*\* (VoiceMag.uk). \*\*\*\*\* (FemaleArts.wordpress.com). 'Fringe favourite' (Guardian). 'Fringe legend' (FringeReview.co.uk). More information This show contains mild language Age category: 16+

Comedy

Christian Dart: GUMSHOE!

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Christian Dart Christian Dart returns with his acclaimed, sell-out Edinburgh Fringe 2025 show GUMSHOE! A grizzled New York Detective embarks on his final, most deadly and most ridiculous case yet. Join Gumshoe as he attempts to solve the unsolvable case. Who did the whodunnit?! Written and performed by multi award-winning comedian Christian Dart. Best Show: Leicester Comedy Festival 2025 Nominee. Sketch-Off! 2025 finalist. \*\*\*\*\* (ThreeWeeks). \*\*\*\*\* (Young-Perspective.net). \*\*\*\*\* (TheLiveReview.co.uk). \*\*\*\*\* (GetTheChance.wales). \*\*\*\*\* (Number9Reviews.blogspot.com). \*\*\*\*\* (AdventuresInTheatreland.com). \*\*\*\*\* (AaronSays.co.uk). \*\*\*\*\* (TonyLovesTheFringe.com). \*\*\*\* (List). \*\*\*\* (One4Review.co.uk). Audience participation, Strobe lighting, Strong language/swearing Age category: 14+

Comedy

Dreamgun Film Reads

5 Aug 2026 - 17 Aug 2026

Dreamgun and special guests perform a different parody film script every night, rewritten with fresh jokes and read live by completely unprepared comedians. It's an unrehearsed, rapid-fire, cinematic mess. Previous guests include Dara Ó Briain, Rose Matafeo, Nish Kumar and Aisling Bea. From The Shawshank Redemption to Psycho to Jumanji, no childhood favourite is safe. Check the web listing for the full schedule. 'Merciless, hilarious' \*\*\*\*\* (Irish Times). 'Kept us in stitches' \*\*\*\*\* (BroadwayBaby.com). None Age category: 14+

Comedy

Stand-up

Stephen Colfer: Stephen Jobs

5 Aug 2026 - 17 Aug 2026

Stephen Colfer Stephen Jobs 80 Words: A show about Stephen's jobs. Stephen Colfer, creator of Dreamgun Film Reads, looks back on twenty years of taking side jobs to support his main job (comedy). Somewhere between alphabetising CDs, demoing tech that doesn't work, saying one line in two films and having one hundred trainee doctors practice on his ears, he hopes to answer the question: Where does Stephen end, and jobs begin? None Age category: 16+

Comedy

Stand-up

Storytelling

Madeleine Brettingham: Legend

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Gilded Balloon What does it take to become a legend? Fuelled by pork scratchings and a lust for glory, 2025's So You Think You're Funny? winner Madeleine Brettingham presents her highly anticipated debut hour of stand-up, exploring what growing up in a world of booze-soaked bad behaviour taught her about how man becomes myth. Praised for her 'distinctive worldview' (Chortle.co.uk), 'tight and gag-packed writing' (Bruce Dessau), and 'knack for blending offbeat observations with pacey, unexpected punchlines' (List). As heard on Breaking The News and Drunk Women Solving Crime. Scenes of a sexual nature, None Age category: 16+

Comedy

Stand-up

Fiona Allen: White Lies

5 Aug 2026 - 29 Aug 2026

Fiona Allen After a sellout debut Edinburgh 2023 show, Fiona Allen star of Smack The Pony returns with her new show White Lies. Fiona needs a perfect lie to avoid her pet hate of social gatherings. Running out of time and patience she encounters every obstacle a day can throw at her. It all threatens to derail her quest to find the perfect lie. She must confront her worst fear: her neighbours party. It's a fate worse than death and the clock is ticking. She's going to have to war-game it. Honestly. 'Punchlines delivered with cutting execution' (Scotsman). Strong language/swearing Age category: 14+

Comedy

Stand-up

Eva Peroni: Jungled

5 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Brass Tacks Comedy At 17, Eva moved from Livingston to Costa Rica on her own. She dropped out of school and moved to Costa Rica a boy mad wee bam. She came back a bald lesbian without shoes. A fast, brutally funny debut about how you can take the girl out of Livingston, but maybe Costa Rica is too far. 'One of the best young acts on the Scottish circuit' (One4Review.co.uk). 'A rising star' (List). Support for Kim Blythe, Sam Nicoresti and Susie McCabe. Strong language/swearing Age category: 16+

Kids

Theatre

Musical

Mama G: The Magic Bookmark

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

The Cosmic Shambles Network Join 'everyone's favourite pantomime dame!' (Metro) and Britain's Got Talent semi-finalist, Mama G, on an award winning, panto adventure for the whole family. Book Worm is livid that encyclopaedias give people so much knowledge, so decides to steal all the books from Mama G's library! Mama G vows to save the day by proving that books can help make the world a better place. But she can't do it alone! Enter the mysterious and wonderful Magic Bookmark... She needs your help too, to discover why everyone deserves to be part of the story! Audience participation

Theatre

Silent Disco

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Pique Theatre 'What's on your mind?' A musician and a psychologist walk into a disco, one, ever the social butterfly, the other reserved and introspective. These polar opposites attract and a romance develops – two souls at the start of their lives, two neurodivergent lovers living with their respective conditions, whilst the audience, equipped with headphones, witness every private thought and every secret anxiety. Silent Disco is a work of two halves simultaneously: The first, a tender narrative of the lives of neurodivergent young people, and an abstract, pre-recorded stream-of-consciousness, broadcast directly into the ears of its audience. Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Scenes of sexual violence, Scenes of violence, Strong language/swearing Age category: 14+

Comedy

Stand-up

Adi Parmar: Sunny Boy

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Pierrot Productions Is fatherhood REAL or is it a lie made up by BIG childhood to sell MORE therapy? Join Adi Parmar (gay), as he recalls his unforgettable childhood in North India (India) and his unexpected fatherhood in North Holland (Netherlands) and makes sense of it all using the best medicine there is: Laughter (hahaha). 'Love, forgiveness and growth, all wrapped around with humour.' \*\*\*\*\* (List). Winner Best Emerging Artist Adelaide Fringe 2026 weekly award. Soho Theatre London: Comedy Plus Lab 2025 Alumni. Newbie Comedian of the Year (Netherlands) 2024. Audience participation, Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Scenes of violence, Strong language/swearing

Comedy

Improv

Fabled: The Improvised Fantasy Adventure

17 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Fabled is an entirely improvised fantasy adventure tale that features a hilarious cast of improvisers with live musical accompaniment. Featuring actors from Final Fantasy Tactics, Crimson Desert, Dragon Quest, Warhammer: Age Of Sigmar, Anno, Evil West, Arknights, Hellblade and more. 'A delightful hour of improvisational theatre' \*\*\*\* (LittleLarkOfLondon.com). 'Very entertaining and extremely impressive!' \*\*\*\*\* (TheAudienceClub.com). 'A talented and hilarious band of improvisers. This show is worth questing for!' (Graham Dickson, Austentatious). More information This show contains minimal audience participation and is completely improvised, so may contain strong language and sexual references. Age category: 12+

So You Think You're Funny? Heats

19 Aug 2026 - 26 Aug 2026

Gilded Balloon The search for comedy's next big star continues as contestants battle for a place in the Grand Final of the UK's biggest newcomer competition! Following months of regional showcases across the UK and Ireland, see the future faces of comedy before they make it big! 'Showcasing the stand-up stars of the future' (Comedy.co.uk). Previous winners and finalists from the competition include Aisling Bea, Tommy Tiernan, Maisie Adam, Peter Kay, Lee Mack, Fern Brady, Rob Beckett, Romesh Ranganathan, Sara Pascoe, Daniel Sloss and more. None Age category: 16+

Kids

Max Fulham's Monkey Business

5 Aug 2026 - 16 Aug 2026

Max Fulham Join Max, his sidekick Gordon the Monkey, and a gaggle of puppet friends as they get down to the seriously silly business of making big laughs for the whole family. Expect sketches, slapstick and briefcase full of nonsense. With years of family comedy experience under his belt, come along as Max brings his family-friendly show to the Fringe for the very first time! \*\*\*\*\* (ThreeWeeks). \*\*\*\* (EdFestMag.com). \*\*\*\* (TheWeeReview.com). \*\*\*\* (TheTheatreReviewer.com). \*\*\*\* (BeyondTheJoke.co.uk). \*\*\*\* (OnTheMic.co.uk). Audience participation

Comedy

Stand-up

Storytelling

Rich Hall: Chin Music

17 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Off The Kerb Productions Chin Music has two meanings: one is idle talk, the other is a brushback throw in baseball or cricket to intimidate the batter. Both describe Rich Hall's comedy. Idle but intimidating. Sharp, quick, splenetic and sublimely improvisational. If you've never seen him, you need to hustle down and grab a seat because he never disappoints. Ever. 'Blissfully funny' (Guardian). Strong language/swearing Age category: 16+

Comedy

Guy Branum: Be Fruitful

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Guy Branum Emmy and Golden-Globe winning comedian Guy Branum goes on a joke-dense slide show journey through religion and science arguing that he, as a clinically obese gay man, does not serve any practical purpose. Guy recruits his audience to look at the origins of homophobia and anti-fat bias and asks how correct they might be. He uses this journey to explore how we tell stories about people traditionally ignored, why he's bad at telling stories, the 1984 Tony Awards, the first and only time he's been in love, and, of course, the biology and evolution of fruit. Strong language/swearing Age category: 16+

Comedy

Stand-up

Lawrence Dodd: This Can't Be It

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Lawrence Dodd Playful, chaotic clowning meets existential confusion as one man desperately tries to make sense of life. Perpetually derailed, deluded and paralysed by overwhelm, Big Loz Dodd arrives to do something very special indeed – something that might just deliver the kind of profound insight that shakes our contemporary situation to its core. Blending performance art and contemporary clowning, This Can't Be It is a semi-improvised, feverish and open-hearted exploration of how we stay open to the mystery when everything is closing us down. Directed by Lara Ricote, with Rachael Dobbie on tech. Audience participation Age category: 16+

Theatre

Cabaret

Comedy

Sarah Hester Ross: Serving C*nt

5 Aug 2026 - 29 Aug 2026

Sarah Hester Ross Powerhouse vocals. Unfiltered comedy. Cabaret chaos. Sarah Hester Ross brings her viral songs and razor-sharp humour to a one-woman show that's part concert, part confessional and all hilarious. With over 3 million followers online, catch the internet sensation live onstage and find out what it really means to serve c*nt. Sarah Hester Ross is an internationally touring cabaret artist and viral social media creator whose musical comedy blends bold feminist takes with powerhouse vocals and sharp-as-hell satire. Strong language/swearing

Comedy

Stand-up

Storytelling

Joe Sib: Aggie – A Comedy About Moms

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Joe Sib Joe Sib returns to Fringe with his most personal and universal hour yet. Aggie is a hilarious and heartfelt stand-up show about the one person who loved you first. Through sharp storytelling, big laughs and honest moments, Joe explores what it means to be raised by someone who would do anything for you, and what happens when you realise you would do anything for them too. It is about mothers, family and the stories that shape us. Guaranteed laughs and maybe a few tears. None Age category: 14+

Comedy

Stand-up

Shane Daniel Byrne: Baby This Time

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Shane Daniel Byrne Ireland's megastar Shane Daniel Byrne is back. 'He storms a room' (Tommy Tiernan). You're invited along to Shane for an hour of fast paced and heartfelt stand-up comedy. All his mates are having babies but Shane's just having the craic! Is that so wrong? Baby This Time is set to be Shane's most personal show to date. A show about what makes a man who can't make a baby. 'My favourite new Irish comedian for many years' (David O'Doherty). 'Shane Daniel Byrne is my favourite' (Irish Examiner). \*\*\*\* (BroadwayWorld.com). 'Superb as always' \*\*\*\*\* (GCN.ie). None Age category: 14+

Comedy

Stand-up

Storytelling

Phil Nichol: Aren't We Lucky

5 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Lee Martin for Gag Reflex Lou Reed. The lottery. Ecstasy. Prince Andrew. Punk. Barenaked Ladies. Crisps. Terry Jones. Leukaemia. Butterflies. Dizzy Gillespie's cheeks. Chance. Scat. Sunshine on Leith. Boo-bee-dee-do. Wasps. Double helix. Comedy. Dennis Hopper. Scrotums. Life. Edinburgh Comedy Award Winner, Phil Nichol is back with a brand-new show. An acclaimed actor, award-winning comedian, producer, presenter, writer and musician, there is no end to his talent. As seen on The Graham Norton Show (BBC One) and Never Mind the Buzzcocks (BBC Two). \*\*\*\*\* (Scotsman). \*\*\*\*\* (List). More information Contains adult themes of sex and drugs Age category: 16+

Comedy

Stand-up

Kathleen Hughes: Twig

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Kathleen Hughes Like most people, Kathleen comes from a long line of other people. Following her acclaimed Fringe debut, Glaswegian comic Kathleen Hughes returns with a show all about family, legacy and why we're all like this. 'Confidence, charm and whip-smart wit... an incredibly funny woman' (Skinny). 'One of the bright new hopes of Scottish comedy' (Scotsman). Strong language/swearing Age category: 16+

Theatre

Comedy

SLAY

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Gilded Balloon and Gobby Girls Productions Following a PTSD diagnosis, Kit escapes the North-East for London, until a text from her ex detonates her recovery, sending her spiralling through therapy, chaos and questionable coping fantasies. In the TikTok trauma-dump era, Kit is determined to stay the main character (because if she doesn't laugh, she'll cry and post it). As symptoms, triggers and disordered eating collide, she must confront her past or keep avoiding it. SLAY is a darkly funny North-East reckoning by Offie nominated writer-performer Lois-Amber Toole (ITV's Vera, Amazon Prime's Killers Anonymous), directed by Fringe First winner Anna Morris, produced by Gina Lyons. Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Strong language/swearing, More information Eating disorders, and mention of sexual assault. Age category: 14+

Theatre

Comedy

Magic

Fake

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Snap the Arrow It's pretty, but is it art? Through magic, comedy and storytelling, Chris Cook shares the story of a faker so skilled he had to forge his way to freedom, an artist so talented he may himself be a fraud, a magician whose promise conceals a lie, and a mysterious figure who may not even exist. A story only a magician could tell. Mervyn Stutter's Pick of the Fringe 2025. 'A masterclass in storytelling' \*\*\*\*\* (Edinburgh-Reviews.co.uk). 'Fake is the show to see' \*\*\*\*\* (WorldMagicReview.com). 'A true joy to watch' \*\*\*\*\* (The Student). Audience participation, Strong language/swearing Age category: 14+

Comedy

Stand-up

So You Think You're Funny? Grand Final

27 Aug 2026 - 27 Aug 2026

Gilded Balloon Finalists battle it out to take the crown in the climactic stage of the UK's most prestigious comedy newcomer competition! Following months of regional showcases around the UK and Ireland, see comedy's rising stars give their best performances in a bid to win So You Think You're Funny? 2025. 'Showcasing the stand-up stars of the future' (Comedy.co.uk). Previous winners and finalists from the competition include Aisling Bea, Tommy Tiernan, Maisie Adam, Peter Kay, Lee Mack, Fern Brady, Rob Beckett, Romesh Ranganathan, Sara Pascoe, Daniel Sloss and more. More information 2hr 30 min including interval Age category: 16+

Comedy

Stand-up

Brit Barron: CHURCH

5 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Brit Barron CHURCH is a one-woman comedy show from the mind of LA-based stand-up comedian, former megachurch pastor and storyteller Brit Barron. Blending sharp stand-up, theatrical storytelling and live gospel music, Barron stages the show like a church service; equal parts revival and irreverence. A sold-out hit in Los Angeles, CHURCH is a hilarious and heartfelt exploration of faith, queerness, race and religious trauma. None Age category: 16+

Theatre

Top Gunchained

6 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Seabright Live presents Richard Marsh directed by Hal Chambers Feel-good comedy brings you the beloved characters, romance and action of Tom Cruise's aerial blockbuster, alongside the heartfelt story of father and son superfans. Can Maverick and best friend Goose beat Iceman to the Top Gun trophy? Can instructor Charlie order drinks without anyone singing at her? Can one Fringe First-winning nerd reenact the movie's signature dogfights – alone? This very unauthorised parody marks 40 years since Top Gun's cinema release – essential viewing for Top Gun veterans and rookies alike. From creators of international smash Yippee Ki Yay. 'Epically entertaining' \*\*\*\* (Times). 'Lovely, witty, delicious' \*\*\*\*\* (Independent). None Age category: 12+

Comedy

Stand-up

Bring Yer Bairn Comedy

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Good Egg Comedy Comedy with your bairn? Aye, really! Join us for an adult comedy show where you can bring your bairn! Enjoy a brilliant selection of our favourite comics from the Scottish scene and beyond, performing especially for parents, carers, and babies. No babysitter required – it's the perfect daytime show. Expect adult language and grown-up material, so we recommend for those with little ones aged 15 months and under. \*\*\*\* (One4Review.com). Audience participation, Strong language/swearing Age category: 14+

Theatre

Turn the Cloth

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Cutty Sark Theatre Gather, gather, and turn the cloth... 1989. The first storm of winter hits a small Scottish town, bringing with it obligation, tradition and a spirit hungry for a wife. Bonds are tested, secrets revealed, and someone must make a deadly choice. Darkly funny, unsettling and atmospheric, Turn the Cloth is a new folk horror play inspired by traditional waulking songs and kelpie folklore, stringing together campy 1980s horror films, sharp-tongued teenagers and folklore from Scotland. Using a fusion of trad music and 80s synth, it dissects defiance, girlhood and the rituals that shape us. Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Strong language/swearing Age category: 14+

Comedy

Stand-up

Schalk Bezuidenhout: Hey Hey Divorcè

24 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Mick Perrin Worldwide Schalk Bezuidenhout is back with a brand-new show. His first and (hopefully, for the love of all things good) only show post divorce. Schalk hasn't checked in with you all in some time and he wants to talk to you. Actually... he needs to talk to you! Why? Because it's cheaper than therapy. That's why! 'Rapid-fire gags and manic energy. Highly recommended' \*\*\*\* (TheAge.com.au). As seen on Amazon Prime, Netflix and Comedy Central. Arena tour support for Trevor Noah. \*\*\*\*\* (EdFringeReview.com). \*\*\*\* (Mervyn Stutter's Pick of the Fringe). \*\*\*\* (BroadwayBaby.com). 'Fast-rising talent' (Guardian). Audience participation, Strong language/swearing Age category: 16+

Reuben Solo: Someone in This Crowd Will Betray Me [Revenge Edition]

Comedy

Stand-up

Reuben Solo: Someone in This Crowd Will Betray Me [Revenge Edition]

18 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Mick Perrin Worldwide I came here to tell jokes and figure out who's going to betray me. And I'm all out of jokes. After months spent touring worldwide, Reuben returns with knives in his back and a camera on his head. For glory. For redemption. For revenge. A fully updated rendition of 2025's sold-out show. As booed on America's Got Talent. Nominated ISH Edinburgh Comedy Awards Best Show 2025. 'Offers nothing personal and almost no actual content' \*\*\*\* (Chortle.co.uk). 'Egotistical delusions' \*\*\*\* (Scotsman). 'Indescribable' \*\*\*\* (List). 'Disorderly' \*\*\*\* (IsolatedNation.com). Audience participation, Strong language/swearing Age category: 14+

Comedy

Stand-up

Sophia Wren: The Best Girl in the World

5 Aug 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Sophia Wren Sophia Wren is an electrifying Irish stand-up whose comedy crackles with intelligence and heart. Drawing on family folklore, modern dating disasters and the beautifully absurd realities of Irish life, she crafts tightly written sets that feel both personal and universal. Her stage presence is warm yet mischievous, inviting audiences to laugh at the chaos of adulthood while finding unexpected tenderness in the punchlines. Whether commanding a packed theatre or an intimate club, she delivers fearless crowd work, sharp social commentary and stories that spiral hilariously before snapping back with precision. None Age category: 16+

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