what's on
BC:AD – Before Children: After Diapers
BC:AD – Before Children; After Diapers is a stand-up comedy show and one mad, brown mommy's take on how the definitions of words change before and during motherhood. This show is an invitation to anyone that finds themselves slightly overdrawn, mostly obscure and definitely needing the sound of another voice to reason with their own challenges – be it parenting, identity or the infinite void between where we find ourselves and where we see ourselves in our daytime dreams.
Beg For Me
In this riveting new play by Rosa Maria Alexander, follow how one young man's radicalisation leads him to the steps of the US Capitol. Beg For Me explores the implosive intersection of violent misogyny, the alt-right and digital extremism. One year on from the storming of the Capitol, the US has experienced a "peaceful" transfer of power – but have the forces that brought thousands to protest the results of the election changed? Beg For Me delves into the mindset of toxic male behaviour – with dark consequences.
Climb
Whether he’s singing about love found and lost in Latin America or telling stories about seeking clarity gigging throughout Asia and Europe, his soulful voice and samba-reggae vibes seek joy and hope in this broken world. Proceeds support Duane's charity Genesis Community of the Arts. Creator: Duane Forrest Dramaturg: Ins Choi Producer: John McGowan Starring: Duane Forrest
Creepy Boys
It will have everything. Games. Gifts. Possibly Satan. Probably cake. Join these horny little boys as they do whatever it takes to make their birthday dreams come true (think Oh, Hello meets those twins from The Shining meets My Super Sweet 16). This is their perverted fantasy and today is the day they finally get everything they've ever wanted. Real-life lovers turned identical twin boys, Creepy Boys is a bizarre new comedy with just a splash of the occult.
Criminal
That's right – Criminal is back. Each night, four comedians are tasked with solving a horrible murder. One of them is a detective; the other three are suspects. Who did the deed? Produced by Ralph Jones and Joel Gatehouse, with previous guests including Deborah Frances-White, Mike Wozniak and Rachel Parris, Criminal promises you a night of chaos, death and giggles. Strap in.
Enter the Vortex
Award-winning sketch men The Awkward Silence present a mind-bending parade of vignettes, voices and vagabonds from beyond our reality. Memories collide and intersect; worlds collapse into themselves in the blink of an eye; Jools Holland... is there, for some reason. Is it Inception on a smaller budget? If you say so. Bring some toast: your brain's about to get scrambled.
Finding Melania
Melania – once an enigmatic beauty, now pretty much forgotten – is discovered years later living deep in the bowels of the White House. Holding on to her husband's belief that they will one day return and Make It All Great Again, she welcomes an Audience with Melania and lives out her memories, dreams and fantasies. A dark clown show exploring the grotesque behind the glamour and what it takes to "stand by your man".
Happy Place
But what happens when you find yours occupied by strangers? Follow four individuals on an extraordinary journey in this comedic imagining of a world where happiness is commodified. “Weight of the world getting you down? Get down to your nearest Happy Place and leave your worries at the door. With over seven thousand locations nationwide, we create personalised realities at affordable prices.” Critically acclaimed theatre company Forget About the Dog presents their unique style of highly physical bombastic comedy, packed with puppetry, live music and thought-provoking whimsy. Your Happy Place awaits.
How to Keep Up With the Kardashians
Following their sell-out shows in Manchester and London So La Flair make their Edinburgh debut with their cabaret campaign against keeping up culture. Based on interviews with women and non-binary people aged 5-60, this is a dance party protest about shaking our asses to the rhythm of our own drums, reclaiming power by redefining beauty and confronting the ugly truth of our obsession with perfection. Expect an epic playlist, belly laughs, brave truths and high vibrations. Sorry Kim, not this time.
Lucinda Spragg: An Evening With
Leader of the Regain Party. Freedom fighter/icon. Host of the TripadPfizer podcast. Professional feather ruffler. 'An appeaser is one who feeds a crocodile [the left], hoping it will eat him last' - Winston Churchill / Lucinda Spragg. Come and join Lucinda as she promotes her latest book: Jabbie Dodgers. Seeking the truth, fighting for decency, defying the liberal Vax Pushers.
Mudfish: Might as Well
Us neither. But Molly and Dan know all about it! Join these ex-Cambridge Footlights for some muck and madness in this illegally witty hour of sketches, characters and – if you're lucky – a new iPod. Will these squirming siblings finally learn how to work together or will they be stuck down this stupid-idiot well for the rest of time?!
Out to Lunch
Coren didn't say hello. Rayner told him to piss off. Wallace thought he was staff. The final humiliation came when his face showed up in black and white on the in memoriam. In an attempt to save his failing career he strives to write the foulest review conceivable. A comedy play with songs from the writers of Boondocks, Goons, and Frog's Legs.
Scene Africa
Scene Africa celebrates South African contributions to world culture by bringing music and dance that elevates, empowers and resists injustices. Short sketch stories intertwined with original music, dance routines and physical theatre. The ultimate South African fusion that interweaves joyous and turbulent past and present will take you on a journey through the scenic Cape Town and Durban, to fast-paced Johannesburg all the way to the deep Sowetan township. Presented by the producers of the five and four-star Fringe show of I am Rhythm, Sowhereto Africa and Cell Block Soweto directed by Morgan Njobo.
Surfing the Holyland
When a wide-eyed American moves to Tel Aviv, how does she navigate the wild waters of the Middle East? She learns to surf! With colourful characters, comedy songs and one woman’s search for chutzpah, this classic fish-out-of-water tale blends bighearted comedy, electrifying ukulele riffs and fearless physicality. A fast-paced solo show, exploring female empowerment, written and performed by Erin Hunter, one-half of the award-winning comedy duo, Hunt the Vigan.
The Actress
It is a time of debauchery and revelry and speculation is swirling around the city that for the first time a woman will be allowed onto the stage. The Kings company invite two very different women, from very different backgrounds, to join them, but only one can be the first. This new work is created by Long Lane Theatre Company, producers of the critically acclaimed play The Giant Killers.
The Bleeding Obvious
What happens when you tumble out of the big pink closet and across the LGBTQ+ spectrum in a sprawling queer heap? Well, life is never quite as straight as it seems. Yorkshire lesbian Jessica Rowbottom (aka The Bleeding Obvious) endeavours to describe the experience with original songs and tales which are sometimes funny, occasionally poignant, frequently emotional, usually queer – and it's probably the only show with the lyrics 'demisexual panromantic polyamorous androgyne'!
The Endling
Visually beautiful and laugh-out-loud funny, Strange Futures use their 'powerful physicality' (Scotsman) to discuss environmental and species extinction in 'this thoughtful and refreshingly non-accusatory show. ‘This quirky two-hander offers a 'savagely relevant concept' (Artistic Director, Lion & Unicorn) as it explores the interconnectedness of human existence, with the lives and deaths of other species. Supported by ACE Project Grants and with a physical vocabulary workshopped with Julian Spooner (Rhum and Clay).
The Extraordinary Time-Travelling Adventures of Baron Munchausen
There will be pirates and princesses, unicorns and dragons, castles built of cheese, and all of it is completely and irrefutably true. Leicester Comedy Festival Best Children's Show 2020 Winner. Greater Manchester Fringe Best Kid's Show 2019 Winner. Rated by ThreeWeeks magazine as one of their top three Children's shows to see in 2018.
Spank! You And Goodnight
Join the 'best wild night out at the Fringe' (Scotland on Sunday), Spank!, as they celebrate 20 years at The Fringe, and bow out disgracefully with this show-stopping one-night-only finale which promises to be a night to remember! With their favourite comedy and variety performers from over the years, check out the line-up below! LINE-UP Hosts: James Wren & James Loveridge Myra DuBois Mark Nelson Lauren Pattison Alison Spittle Aurie Styla Kate Barron Line-up subject to change.
The Magnets
This sensational five-voice sound machine features the hottest vocal and beatboxing talent on the international a cappella scene, performing legendary hits by Queen, Stevie Wonder, The Beatles, The Jackson 5 and more. The Magnets are a must-see act on the international music scene performing alongside music legends including Blondie, Bryan Adams, Tom Jones, Gregory Porter, Rick Astley and The Kaiser Chiefs. Sing and dance along to the ultimate soundtrack of your life, Magnets style!
Thom Tuck and Tim FitzHigham: Macbeth
2022 sees the definitive production by multi award-winners Thom Tuck (The Penny Dreadfuls, Thom Tuck Goes Straight to DVD, Horrible Histories) and Tim FitzHigham (Paddington 2, After Life, BBC Radio 4's The Gambler). With a script by Shakespeare (Coriolanus, Titus Andronicus, King John) and a different guest director daily. Two actors are, arguably, not enough actors. The greatest tragedy of Edinburgh 2022 – limited run, book early. William Shakespeare: 'pretty good'. DIRECTOR'S LINE-UP Sat 13 Aug Nick Helm Sun 14 Aug Laura Davis Mon 15 Aug Anna Morris Tues 16 Aug Sunil Patel Wed 17 Aug Rosie Holt Thurs 18 Aug Daniel Sloss Fri 19 Aug Josie Long Sat 20 Aug TBC Line-up's subject to change.
Isabelle Farah: Ellipsis
Standup is the outlet that keeps you sane. The nature of the game is to turn everything into punchlines. Can you do it if you feel all-consuming sadness? "I wanted my therapist to come and watch me to see how f*cking hilarious I am, but I thought how odd it would be performing to someone who's seen so far behind my mask. Would he even find it funny or just sit there knowing what I was hiding?" Ellipsis explores grieving, authenticity, and being funny.
BOOM
A few days after the outbreak of war in Ukraine, young circus students from Kyiv came to Cirk La Putyka in Prague. This is the story of how circus can connect people. Cirk La Putyka and Kyiv Municipal Academy of Variety and Circus Art collaborate on this breath-taking show about freedom, friendship and borders. They are Gen Z. They are connected by age and social networks. But these performers have something more in common – they were brought together in March 2022, a few days after the Ukrainians experienced the outbreak of war and could no longer safely continue their training in Kyiv. Overcoming language challenges and finding strength in each other, they found a new way of communicating to express their youthful hopes for the future. Accompanied by enchanting music, with incredible circus talent and mesmerising dance, they display resilience and optimism in the face of adversity. *12% of Ticket Income will be donated to the Disasters Emergency Committee.*
Dr Brown: Workdsff intlsdjfj Progressdsdfdfn
After a decade in hibernation since winning the top prize in Edinburgh, Dr Brown still does not have a clue. As seen in Feel Good and Netflix Presents: The Characters. Director of Natalie Palamides' Laid (Edinburgh Comedy Award, Best Newcomer, 2017) and Nate (***** (Guardian)). Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Show winner 2012 Melbourne International Comedy Festival Best Show winner 2012 Total Theatre Award for Innovation winner, 2012
Troy Hawke: Sigmund Troy'd! - EXTRA SHOWS
Last year he found the nefarious link between a furniture store, a dictator, and a rapper. Now 1930’s throwback homeschooled investigator Troy Hawke returns to battle a new enemy on behalf of all people everywhere…PSYCHOTHERAPY! 2022 Leicester Comedy Festival best show nominee 2020 Leicester Comedy Festival best show nominee 2020 Perth Fringe World Comedy Weekly Award winner and main award shortlist 2019 Perth Fringe World Comedy Weekly Award winner and main award shortlist 2019 Total sellout run Edinburgh Fringe 2019 Top 40 Best reviewed comedy shows Edfringe 2019 More shows: 03-28 August. Book tickets now. 27 August in McEwan Hall. Book tickets now.
Troy Hawke: Sigmund Troy'd! in McEwan Hall
Last year he found the nefarious link between a furniture store, a dictator, and a rapper. Now 1930’s throwback homeschooled investigator Troy Hawke returns to battle a new enemy on behalf of all people everywhere…PSYCHOTHERAPY! 2022 Leicester Comedy Festival best show nominee 2020 Leicester Comedy Festival best show nominee 2020 Perth Fringe World Comedy Weekly Award winner and main award shortlist 2019 Perth Fringe World Comedy Weekly Award winner and main award shortlist 2019 Total sellout run Edinburgh Fringe 2019 Top 40 Best reviewed comedy shows Edfringe 2019
Max Fosh: Zocial Butterfly in McEwan Hall
They said he couldn’t legally become the world's richest man; they were wrong. They said he couldn’t beat all the odds to become London’s first ever YouTuber mayor... to be fair, they got that one bang on. But now, armed with the rosiest of cheeks & the floppiest of hair, Max Fosh faces his next challenge - the Edinburgh Fringe Festival - as he brings you his hilarious & unpredictable debut live show: Zocial Butterfly. Let's #TakeEdinburghToTheMax. More shows: 03 - 29 August. Book tickets now.
Troy Hawke: Sigmund Troy'd!
Last year he found the nefarious link between a furniture store, a dictator, and a rapper. Now 1930’s throwback homeschooled investigator Troy Hawke returns to battle a new enemy on behalf of all people everywhere…PSYCHOTHERAPY! EXTRA SHOWS ADDED 18, 19 and 20 August. Book tickets now. 27 August at McEwan Hall. Book tickets now. 2022 Leicester Comedy Festival best show nominee 2020 Leicester Comedy Festival best show nominee 2020 Perth Fringe World Comedy Weekly Award winner and main award shortlist 2019 Perth Fringe World Comedy Weekly Award winner and main award shortlist 2019 Total sellout run Edinburgh Fringe 2019 Top 40 Best reviewed comedy shows Edfringe 2019
Rhys Nicholson: Rhys! Rhys! Rhys! - EXTRA SHOW
That sounds nice doesn't it? Yeah. A nice little comedy show with your ol pal Rhys. Lovely. WINNER MOST OUTSTANDING SHOW - Melbourne Comedy Festival 2022 More shows: 03-28 August. Book tickets now.
Cirque Alfonse: Animal
In this re-invented agricultural world, the farm is turned upside down! Yet again, the Cirque Alfonse clan has favoured its multidisciplinary approach where circus, song, dance and theatre all come together, driven by original live music ... an irresistible mix of trad and soul that the troupe calls ‘agricultural funk! A production for young and old alike, ANIMAL is the farm gone haywire!
The Gruffalo, the Giant and the Mermaid with Julia Donaldson
Following their sell-out 2018 show, UK's best-selling author Julia Donaldson and a cast of four return with a brand-new show based on her much-loved books including The Smartest Giant in Town, The Singing Mermaid, The Highway Rat, and The Gruffalo. Packed full of songs, puppetry, and audience interaction, join Harry and Betty at their scarecrows wedding, go on an adventure with Cave Baby and a woolly mammoth and see if the grumpy Go-Away Bird would like a friend after all. Every performance will be followed by a book signing.
Underbelly's Big Brain Tumour Benefit
A stupendous evening of comedy to help the 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 on the night. Don't miss this massive line-up of the biggest names on the Fringe! THE LINE-UP Jason Byrne (MC) John Bishop Jessica Fostekew Rhys Nicholson Michael Akadiri Phil Wang Maisie Adam Danny Bhoy
Circus Abyssinia: Tulu
Inspired by the true tale of an Ethiopian icon, Derartu Tulu, this unmissable showcase of superhuman strength blends breathtaking contortion, awe-inspiring acrobatics, and mesmerising fire juggling with a rocking, exuberant soundtrack. Circus Abyssinia made their UK debut at the 2017 Edinburgh Fringe and featured on the Royal Variety Performance in the same year. After touring internationally, including a sell-out run in New York, they are thrilled to return with their greatly anticipated new show. *reviews for ‘Ethiopian Dreams'
Destiny
She's gonna be an MTV Base backing dancer, you watch. If J-Lo can make it outta the Bronx then Destiny can make it off the Hill Rise estate. She's fearless, ferocious and up for the fight (she's had to be). A "captivating" (★★★★ The Guardian) show that follows a teenage girl growing up on a Chippenham council estate. Born below the breadline, she's desperate to see beyond the neighbourhood and find hope in hopelessness. A recipient of The Pleasance 2021 National Partnerships Award with Bristol Old Vic FERMENT.
La Clique
Born at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2004 and subsequently gaining international acclaim touring the globe, this original and trailblazing Spiegeltent-based cabaret show brings you a magnificent collection of extraordinary new artists and unmissable favourites. A decade on from winning the Best Entertainment Olivier Award and fresh from performances in London and Singapore, La Clique promises to be a night of laughs, gasps, naughtiness and the best in international cabaret. *images are from La Clique at Underbelly Festival 2022.
Abandoman aka Rob Broderick - Discography
Using his trademark blend of audience interaction and razor-sharp improvisation, Abandoman will take you on a magical journey, transforming the audience’s likes, loathes and daydreams into a full discography for a fictional pop star. Rob creates the kind of exhilarating live experience that has won him a string of awards, and the highest of international critical acclaim. Rob continues to sell out his fringe runs in Edinburgh and Australia each year, wowing audiences wherever he plays.
Gulliver
He tells tales of lands undiscovered and creatures unheard of, but is he really the same man who disappeared so long ago? They say travel broadens the mind... but how far before it breaks? Following sell-out Fringe runs in 2018 & 2019, Box Tale Soup return with a new version of Swift's incredible adventure. Commissioned by the Clark Memorial Library, UCLA. Creation supported by Arts Council England.
The Tiger Lillies: One Penny Opera
After years away, touring the world, the Olivier Award-winning Godfathers of alternative cabaret celebrate their 30th anniversary with a triumphant return to the Fringe. Based on the seminal 18th century Beggar's Opera the band present a new song cycle swarming with highwaymen, thieves, jailors, pimps, and prostitutes - a world of greed, crime, poverty, and inequality. Expect immense beauty and outrageous comedy from the Grammy-nominated, street opera trio.
The Wonder Games with Maddie and Greg
Join popular YouTubers and children's TV presenters Maddie Moate and Greg Foot (as seen on Cbeebies' Maddie's Do You Know? and CBBC's Blue Peter) for an interactive family show packed with fun, facts, and supersized games! Following the huge success of their YouTube family science show 'Let's Go Live', Maddie and Greg can't wait to challenge each other (and the audience!) in a battle of curiosity, creativity, and silliness as they - and you! - play for the title of 'The Wonder Games Champion' live on stage!
Murder Ballads
After a sold-out run, The B Collective returns with their exhilarating high-octane show Murder Ballads, adapted from the album by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. Explosive gig-theatre meets dark comedy cabaret as four actor-musicians invite you to O'Malley's Bar in the town of Millhaven, 1882, in the wildest part of the old Wild West. Weaving Cave's outrageous songs into a darkly comic narrative, the performers take you through stories of betrayals, bar brawls, and blood baths. Expect an hour of laughter, horror, live music and one of the highest death counts you'll ever experience at the Fringe!
The Thinking Drinkers Pub Quiz
Two of the world's leading alcohol experts return with a hilarious quiz show that gets the rounds in - in more ways than one. With a pen and question sheet in one hand and several world-class drinks in the other, join them on a uniquely absurd, fact-filled journey through time. It's the perfect aperitif to a Fringe night out! Watch on YouTube
In PurSUEt
'Woman' is sat in a therapist's office. She's been sent there to deal with her drink problem. But she doesn't have a problem and she doesn't need help. She just needs Sue Perkins. They're meant for each other. If only Sue could see that too. But how can she? She's too busy being a celebrity. So 'Woman' sets out in pursuit of her love. From following Sue's every move online - to breaking in backstage at the BBC, there isn't anything she won't do. But can she keep it all together whilst battling her out of control drinking?
Bilal Zafar: Care
Edinburgh Fringe Best newcomer nominee and New act of the year (NATYS) award winner Bilal Zafar returns with a brand new show about how he spent a year working in a care home for very wealthy people. Fresh out of university with a media degree, Bilal was dropped into the real world where he was given far too much responsibility for a 21-year old that had just spent 3 years watching films. As seen/heard on his very successful Twitch channel, BBC1, BBC2, Channel 4, and BBC Radio 4.
Jason Byrne: The Paddy Lama - Shed Talks
A Dubliner full of wit and wisdom, Paddy used to say, "If you don't continue to talk about someone when they die, they die twice". In this one-man play, Jason Byrne brings the full life of Paddy Byrne to the stage playing his dad, keeping him alive in stories full of laughter and tears. This is 80 years of Dublin wit, 80 years of Dublin bull, but heart-warming and loving all the same. "Sure, that's life son, just don't tell ure mother"
Tom Brace: Embrace the Impossible!
Tom Brace takes a trip down memory lane with a brand-new magic show inspired by his past. Join him as he showcases his unique but totally pointless magical abilities that he discovered growing up in the 90s/00s. Jam packed with nostalgia, expect the unexpected with homages to classic board games, TV shows and films with magical twists.
Coming Out of My Cage (And I've Been Doing Just Fine)
How did it end up like this? An interactive investigation with karaoke, lip-syncing, and absolute bangers. Tim and Hannah come across a viral video of an Irish bar singing 'Mr Brightside' to their recently departed friend. Reading online comments they uncover stories of incredible people - all united by one song. Together they conduct an investigation into the chart-busting phenomenon and give you an unashamedly good night out in the process.
Dragons & Mythical Beasts
Unveil a myriad of dark secrets and come face to face with some of the most magnificent monsters and terrifying beasts ever to walk the earth. Discover the colossal Stone Troll, the mysterious Indrik and Japanese Baku, the Tooth Fairy (not as sweet as you'd think), an adorable Unicorn and majestic Griffin. Take your place among legendary heroes, just don't wake the Dragon... Olivier nominated.
Spank!
Spank! returns for an incredible 20th and final year with hilarious hosts, awesome comedians and gratuitous nudity. Showcasing the most exciting comedy and cabaret on the Fringe, don't miss the 'best wild night out' (Scotland on Sunday) at the festival! EDINBURGH FRINGE 2022 LINE-UP Thurs 18 Aug Luca Cupani – Schalk Bezuidenhout – Nathan Mosher – Sam Morrison – Kylie Brakeman – Nina Gilligan – Two Thirds of A Threesome - Naked Promo Hosts: Eshaan Akbar & TBC Remaining show line-up's to be announced soon... PREVIOUS SHOW LINE-UPS Fri 5 Aug Tom Houghton – Katie Pritchard – Kate Barron – Ignacio Lopez – Lucy Frederick – Paddy Young – Shelf Hosts: Alexis Dubus & Sikisa Sat 6 Aug John Hastings – Caitlin Cook – Ryan Cullen – Erika Ehler – Sharlin Jahan – Alex Kealy – Stokes & Summers Hosts: Alexis Dubus & Sikisa Sun 7 Aug Myra DuBois – Micky Overman – Nick Kocher – Aliya Kanani – Christain Brighty – Rosco McLelland – Horseplay Hosts: Alexis Dubus & Sikisa Mon 8 Aug Marcel Lucont – Emmanuel Sonubi – Melissa Stephens – Alex MacKeith – Vix Leyton – Joe McTiernan – Your Dad’s Mum Hosts: Kate Barron & Aurie Styla Tues 9 Aug Kai Humphries – Christopher McArthur Boyd – Tadiwa Mahlunge – Jodie Mitchell – Pear - Two Hearts - Grant Busey Hosts: Kate Barron & Aurie Styla Wed 10 Aug Mark Nelson – Shirley Gnome – Red Richardson – Two Mouthed Men – Aaron Simmonds – Yuriko Kutani – The Idiot Circus Hosts: Kate Barron & Aurie Styla Thurs 11 Aug SK Sholomo – Auria Styla – Anna Clifford – Ali Brice – Alison Spittle – Naked Promo - Liam Withnail Hosts: Kai Humphries & Evan Desmarais Fri 12 Aug Chris Turner – Dom Chambers – Eric Rushton – Alice Brine – Just These Please - Garry Starr - Naked Promo Hosts: Mark Nelson & Evan Desmarais Sat 13 Aug Larry Dean – Ari Eldjarn – Lily Phillips – Mike Rice – Mad Ron – Rob Copland and more TBC Hosts: Evan Desmarais & TBC Sun 14 Aug Tom Ward – Rob Madge – Connor Burns – Bella Hull – Hannah Pilkes – Grace Campbell – Business Casual Hosts: Evan Desmarais & Kai Humphries Mon 15 Aug Conrad Koch – Zach & Viggo – Paddy Young – Jen Ives – Lara Ricot – Kuan-Wen Huang – Notflix - Naked Promo Hosts: Evan Desmarais & Kate Barron Tues 16 Aug Business Casual - Flat N The Curves - Naked Promo - Richard Stott - Shazia Mirza – Michelle Shaughnessy – Mark Bittlestone – Sam Nicoresti Hosts: Evan Desmarais & Kai Humphries Wed 17 Aug Shelf - Robyn Perkins - Sam Lake - Ignacio Lopez - Hannah Platt - Emo Majok Hosts: Evan Desmarais & Eshaan Akbar Line-up's subject to change.
Symphonic Ibiza
Featuring some of the most famous Ibiza club anthems from the last 30 years, celebrate the European island of clubbing this summer. Symphonic Ibiza fuses a thrilling live orchestra with high tempo beats from renowned club DJ Andy Joyce and musical genius Steve Etherington, whose credentials include residencies at Ibiza super-clubs Pacha, Amnesia, Eden and Café Mambo, this party is like no other, creating an entirely new live experience. At Edinburgh's iconic McEwan Hall, this unforgettable night of heart pounding dance classics is an epic way to round off your festival night out.
Rhys Nicholson: Rhys! Rhys! Rhys!
That sounds nice doesn't it? Yeah. A nice little comedy show with your ol pal Rhys. Lovely. WINNER MOST OUTSTANDING SHOW - Melbourne Comedy Festival 2022 Extra Show: 20 August. Book tickets now.
Comedy Arcade
Host Vix Leyton, holds a bingo ball of surprise subjects four comics to compete with related stories & anecdotes to win points, like the best fantasy dinner party you could ever imagine. Anchored by panel regulars Rich Wilson & Jenny Ryan plus many more. EDINBURGH FRINGE 2022 LINE-UP Sat 13 Aug Vix Leyton (Host) Jenny Ryan Rich Wilson Alison Spittle John Robertson Sun 14 Aug Vix Leyton (Host) Jenny Ryan Rich Wilson TBC Tues 16 Aug Vix Leyton (Host) Rich Wilson Jenny Ryan Kate Barron Caitlin Powell Wed 17 Aug Vix Leyton (Host) Rich Wilson Jenny Ryan Jordan Gray Andrew O’Neill Thurs 18 Aug Vix Leyton (Host) Rich Wilson Jenny Ryan Scott Bennett Andrew O’Neill Mark Watson Fri 19 Aug Vix Leyton (Host) Rich Wilson Jenny Ryan Robin Morgan Daniel Foxx PREVIOUS SHOW LINE-UP'S Sat 6 Aug Vix Leyton (Host) Rich Wilson Isabelle Farah Tom Mayhew Vidura Rajapaksa Sun 7 Aug Vix Leyton (Host) Rich Wilson John Robertson Garrett Sarah Keyworth Mon 8 Aug Vix Leyton (Host) Rich Wilson Tadiwa Mahlunge Hannah George Sally Hodgkiss Tues 9 Aug Vix Leyton (Host) Rich Wilson Adele Cliff Katie Pritchard Ada Campe We 10 Aug Vix Leyton (Host) Rich Wilson Faye Treacy Will Duggan Charlie George Line-up's subject to change.
Making a Murderer: The Musical
Created by and starring BAFTA-winning comedy writer Phil Mealey (The Royle Family, Early Doors), the show highlights the many flaws, biases and inconsistencies led to Steven Avery and Brendan Dassey's convictions. These inconsistencies still exist today... Featuring a West End cast, this captivating comedy-drama takes you on an emotional and eye-opening journey into the life and story of a man and his family's fight for freedom that has enthralled people all over the world and has helped shine a light on the injustices and failings of a broken system. In fact it is the passion and conviction of the show that has captured the hearts of all its supporters. Proud supporters of The Innocence Project.
Amazing Bubble Man
Louis Pearl has been thrilling audiences worldwide for over 30 years with the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles. An Edinburgh Fringe favourite, he has sold out there for the last 14 years. Louis explores the breathtaking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding bubble tricks to keep everyone mesmerised. From square bubbles, to rocket bubbles, the Amazing Bubble Man conjures shrieks of laughter and gasps of amazement from all ages.
Circa: Humans 2.0
Ten bodies appear in a flash of light. They move in harmony for a fleeting moment and then descend into a sinuous trance. Towers grow and decay, bodies leap, and are caught, as physical limits are pushed to their extreme. Can we ever find a perfect balance or is adapting to constant change the only way forward? A tightly woven choreography of bodies, pulsing with music, Humans 2.0 is intimate, primal, and deeply engaged with the challenge of being human. Humans 2.0 is commissioned by The Mondavi Center, UC Davis Circa acknowledges the assistance of the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body and the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland. Humans 2.0 is supported by the Australian Government as part of the UK/Australia Season 2021-22.
Edinburgh Comedy Allstars
A one-stop-shop for your comedy fix right in the beating heart of the festival. Every weekend – Friday and Saturday nights. Every show sold out since 2017! EDINBURGH FRINGE 2022 LINE-UP Fri 19 Aug John Bishop Phil Wang Fin Taylor Chloe Petts Alison Spittle Brennan Reece Sat 20 Aug Catherine Bohart Maisie Adam Paul McCaffrey Yuriko Kotani Daniel Foxx Fri 26 Aug Mark Watson Fern Brady Rhys Nicholson Tom Ward Ivo Graham Sat 27 Aug John Hastings Josh Jones Ari Eldjarn Josie Long Plus more! Line-up's subject to change. PREVIOUS SHOW LINE-UPS Fri 5 Aug Larry Dean Jessica Fostekew John Hastings Rachel Fairburn Christopher MacArthur-Boyd Sat 6 Aug David O’Doherty Kiri Pritchard-Mclean Rhys Nicholson Garrett Millerick Rob Auton Erika Ehler Fri 12 Aug Sarah Keyworth Lloyd Langford Pierre Novellie Ian Smith Michelle Brasier Sat 13 Aug Flo & Joan Glenn Moore Michael Akadiri Sam Taunton Danny Bhoy
Foil Arms and Hog: Hogwash
With over 500 million online views the internet sensations return to McEwan hall to premiere their new show ‘Hogwash’. A mix of sketch comedy, audience participation, and improvisation. Best reviewed show at the Edinburgh Fringe 2018 & 2019. Sold-out 2009-2019.
Hotel Paradiso
An irresistibly colourful, loud, and fun show for all the family by Lost in Translation, one of the UK’s leading contemporary circus companies and Guinness World Record Holders. With thrillingly spectacular circus skills, physical comedy, theatrical storytelling, and slapstick, Hotel Paradiso sees the staff family tackle the scheming Banker as he tries to possess the Hotel Paradiso. Full of hijinks and impeccable clowning, Lost in Translation will treat audiences to heart-stopping aerial, stunning floor acrobatics, and extraordinary juggling.
Jason Byrne: Unblocked
Jason Byrne has not only had his heart unblocked and been given a new lease of life, but his whole career has been unblocked too! The constipation of Covid has been cleared, live entertainment has been colonically irrigated and readied up for us all. The bans from social media platforms have been lifted and Jason is back dishing up platters of fun to everyone. Join Jason live on stage as he unleashes what he does best. Guaranteed pure and utter UNBLOCKED joy and laughter.
Paul McCaffrey: We Go Again
A hilarious new stand-up show from the star of Live at the Apollo, Russell Howard’s Good News, Impractical Jokers UK and Stand Up Central. Tour support for Kevin Bridges and Sean Lock. A brand-new hour of stand-up from one of the best comics currently working in the UK. One of the most in-demand club headliners and support act for the biggest names in comedy in arenas and huge theatres... Come and see why!
2 Mouthed Men
Imagine the best pub gig you’ve ever been to; then add a healthy amount of beatboxing, a bowlful of comedy, and a big dollop of funky beats. Whether through their beat-centric sketches or contagious cheer, these boys won’t stop until you’re moving, grooving and laughing along. Join 2 Mouthed Men on their musical comedy odyssey, with plenty of sketches and songs to keep you toe-tapping and leg slapping. Musical Comedy Awards 2020 FINALISTS Sketch Off 2022 FINALISTS
Richard Stott: Afterparty
The runner up in Dave’s Jokes of the Fringe 2019 talks about stripping down for a documentary, club nights that turned into afterparties and then into crime scenes, and finally starting to grow up and beginning to like the adult he’s become. All while living with a disability…perhaps. As seen on ITV2’s Stand Up Sketch Show
A Gay and a NonGay
A Gay and A NonGay started when Dan's girlfriend friend Talia moved abroad leaving he and her gay friend James to fend for themselves. Expect audience interaction, a safe space for Dan to ask questions to the LGBTQ+ community in Things That Dan Cannot Say and a laugh-out-loud look at the differences between Gay and NonGay people. An absurdly simple but hilarious night out; one is gay, the other one isn't.
Alex MacKeith: Thanks for Listening
Join Alex and his guitar and hopefully other audience members on an acoustic odyssey of songs that are playful, dark and maximum three minutes long*. If you’re looking for a sexy, confident musical comedian, by all means please find one and bring them to this. *Please note some songs may be longer than three minutes. No refunds.
Ali Woods: Best Friend Ever
Highly-anticipated debut stand-up hour from the Hackney Empire New Comedian of the Year Winner, tackling all the big topics; Scottish mothers, sex parties, karate teachers, and mental breakdowns. During lockdown Ali was disappointed to discover he’s a terrible friend. This is the hilarious and heart-felt story of how he tried to become more helpful and less... him. As heard on BBC Radio 4, and featured on LadBible and Buzzfeed UK, Ali has written sketches for BBC Three and supported Russell Kane on tour.
Bad Teacher
Evie, our titular teacher, takes you with her as she battles through the school day, confronting audiences with eye-opening truths about gender politics, mental health, and the outrageous expectations that our current educational system sets for students and teachers alike.
Bee Story
A Bee Story is a uniquely Australian physical theatre show for children and families incorporating a kaleidoscope of circus, acrobatics, dance and live music. It tells the story of Queen Bee and Worker Bee who must work together to rebuild their hive after being destroyed by a bushfire. Join the bees on their buzzy adventures and be enchanted by their pollen-collecting skills, honey-making abilities, and super-bee strength. A Bee Story has themes of environmentalism, sustainability, and community spirit, and was directed by performer Robbie Curtis (Circa, Cirque du Soleil, Circus Oz, Australian Ballet), and co-created with musician and performer Lizzie McRae.
Camille O'Sullivan: Dreaming
Including Bowie, Cohen, Pulp, Radiohead and Rufus Wainwright. Chameleon like, 5-star sell-out performances include Sydney Opera House, Royal Festival Hall, La Clique, Roundhouse, Later with Jools Holland and a Herald Angel award for RSC solo performance ‘Lucrece’. Camille transforms each song into an intense, emotional experience - joy & pure passion. With musician Feargal Murray.
Candy
Will has fallen hopelessly in love with the seductive singer, "Candy". The only problem: she’s his best mate in drag. As Will struggles to make sense of his newfound feelings, his life crumbles at the fringes. Should he seize life by his bollocks and tell Candy how he feels? Can he ever be with her? And what does loving her really mean? The sell-out London comedy-drama returns to the Fringe after a special online performance last year.
Colossal
"What's the best part of a story?" A one-man comedy play about love stories, and how we tell them. Combining sketch comedy, gig theatre and spoken word, Colossal is an hour of dynamic theatre which navigates the maze of modern relationships, from the first date to the last text, from falling headfirst to falling apart.
Rob Madge: My Son's a Queer (But What Can You Do?)
When Rob was twelve, they attempted a full-blown Disney parade in their house for their Grandma. As Rob donned wigs and played Mary Poppins, Ariel, Mickey Mouse and Belle, their Dad doubled as Stage Manager, Sound Technician and Goofy. Unfortunately, Dad missed all his cues and pushed all the floats in the wrong direction. Mum mistook Aladdin for Ursula. The costumes went awry. Grandma had a nice time, though. My Son’s a Queer (But What Can You Do?) is the joyous autobiographical story of social-media sensation Rob Madge as they set out to recreate that parade - and this time, nobody, no, nobody is gonna rain on it. Awarded Best Off-West End Production 2022 by WhatsOnStage!
Dreamgun Video
Dreamgun let go of the wheel with a double feature of their laugh-a-minute genre parodies: Brumpy Goes Vroom (a coming-of-age, talking-car movie) and Kiss the Jury (an erotic courtroom drama).
Dreamgun: Film Reads
Dreamgun read a different film script every night, rewritten with jokes and performed by unprepared comedians. Including Harry Potter, The Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, Jurassic Park and the Silence of the Lambs. Check web listing for full schedule. Week One Wed 3rd: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone Thurs 4th: Titanic Fri 5th: Star Wars: A New Hope Sat 6th: The Fellowship of the Ring Sun 7th: The Breakfast Club Week Two Mon 8th: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone Tues 9th: Titanic Weds 10th: The Lion King Thurs 11th: Home Alone Fri 12th: The Shawshank Redemption Sat 13th: Jurassic Park Sun 14th: The Silence of the Lambs Week Three Tues 16th: The Fellowship of the Ring Weds 17th: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone Thurs 18th: Titanic Fri 19th: Star Wars: A New Hope Sat 20th: The Fellowship of the Ring Sun 21st: The Breakfast Club Week Four Mon 22nd: Star Wars: A New Hope Tues 23rd: The Shawshank Redemption Wed 24th: The Lion King Thurs 25th: ET: The Extra Terrestrial Friday: 26th: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone Sat 27th: Jurassic Park Sun 28th: The Silence of the Lambs Mon 29th: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
Emmanuel Sonubi: Emancipated
Having gone from open spot to closing BBC’s ‘Live at the Apollo’ in an incredibly short space of time. He has also performed at many of the largest clubs and festivals across Europe. He made his TV debut on Comedy Central UK and was recently on The John Bishop Show for ITV1 and the Stand Up Sketch Show on ITV2.
AAA Stand-Up at Underbelly
Starring: Kuan-wen Huang as seen on BBC Three and NATYS 2019 Finalist. "Chaotically livewire" (Chortle) Philipp Kostelecky as seen on BBC. Sharp social commentary and silly energy. "Captivated the audience from the moment he stepped onto the stage" (Orbital Magazine) Vivienne Kay: Quirky, on the money style. Delightful innocence undercut by sharp wit in gag-filled sets. "Very good, unique material." (The Stand)
Emo Majok: African Aussie
Award-winning Sudanese-Aussie comedian Emo Majok, on his Edinburgh debut, will be digging into his experiences of culture-clashes, with side-splitting stories of adjusting from a refugee camp in East Africa to gifting out jokes globally with this brand-new show, African Aussie.
Foundations
Two separate worlds existing side by side, until someone crosses the barrier... MJ is a human who is sick of moving boxes around all day like a robot. Pins is a robot who's only heard of humans in stories. When they meet in the space between their worlds, they form a friendship that blurs the boundaries between human and machine. A Pixar movie brought to life on stage using physical theatre and puppetry, Foundations is a whimsical production that tackles what it means to be human in an age of technology.
Aidan Greene: I Know What You Did Last Stammer
He's managed to make that funny. But what if he had never stammered at all? Don't worry, it'll still be funny. Come see how having a disability can shape a life by looking at a life without it.
Gabby Killick's Game Of Thongs
This is the show that puts the joke in woke. It's a hilarious frolic through the modern day jungle of sex, drugs and cancel culture. Gabby, the writer of the pandemic viral anthem, Masturbation In Isolation, speaks to the social media generation telling truths that others dare not say. With a cast of extraordinary characters from The Apps to Shocking Disease, every minute of the show is mesmeric.
Ange Lavoipierre: I've Got 99 Problems and Here's an Exhaustive List of Them
An insufficient number of solutions. If you currently have or have ever had problems, the new show from award-winning comedian and journalist Ange Lavoipierre is absolutely for you. This frantic yet beguiling display of self-pity is the holiday from your own problems you've been waiting for. Winner, Best Comedy Weekly Award, Adelaide Fringe 2020
Geoff Norcott: I Blame the Parents
Geoff’s back with more politics, cultural insight and big laughs. As seen on HIGNFY, Would I Lie to You, The Mash Report and more.
Hannah Pilkes: A Woman on the Verge
A show that explores ego, shadow selves and adulting, as Hannah aims to determine whether a person’s mess is their strength? Or just.. well, messy. A character-driven comedy that welcomes the unhinged in whatever shape it takes, be it absurdity, angst, pratfalls or puppetry. Viva la breakdown! Comedians You Should Know (Vulture.com, 2022) Comics to Watch (New York Comedy Festival).
CSI: Crime Scene Improvisation
The hit improvised murder mystery returns for a 5th year. Delve into a world of comedy and crime and put these improvisers through their paces. CSI creates a 100% brand-new who-dunnit every show to solve an outlandish murder invented by the audience. Someone's kicked the bucket. But who, what, and how? The choice is yours, the problem is theirs.
Caitlin Cook: The Writing on the Stall
"Legendary cock lobster." "My life is on fire, I think I'm in love." "Life ain't all burritos and strippers, my friend." These are just three examples of the bathroom stall graffiti you'll encounter in Caitlin Cook's (SiriusXM, Comedy Cellar) raucous new hour of comedy, music, and visuals. Confessional, immersive, and uproariously funny, this one-of-a-kind show - literally set in a dive bar bathroom - transforms graffiti scrawled all over the stalls into the lyrics of Cook's original songs and the trail markers along the journey she takes us upon.
Jenny Bede: The First Pregnant Woman in the World
You won’t have had children yet, as Jenny is the first person to ever go through this particular ordeal, but you might be keen to learn a little something about this incredible new process called pregnancy from award winning musical comedian and future nation's sweetheart, Jenny Bede. Jenny will navigate the entire gamut of human emotions, from despair all the way through to despair, as she jokes, sings and (at last, justifiably) Mum-dances her experience to life in this new hour.
Karen from Finance is Out of Office
Pack your calculators, save your spread sheets and set your automatic email reply because Karen From Finance is heading Out of Office! She's hitting the road and she's hitting it hard. Say goodbye to the 80 hour work week and jump on board the Finance Express for this one-woman journey of self-discovery...and self-annihilation. Beloved Australian drag queen Karen From Finance presents her debut one woman show Out of Office which features all of her trademark high-camp and hilarious mashups, plus all the tomfoolery you can poke a presentation pointer at.
Living a Little
In a secure flat, complete with a TV, a sound system, video games and enough alcohol to host a Scottish wedding, we meet Rob, an ill-mannered, politically incorrect Scottish lad and Paul, a very chirpy, kind-hearted Northerner. The arrival of battle- hardened Penelope disrupts the status quo as she challenges their way of life whilst seeking relative comfort and safety after living out in the wild of a zombie apocalypse. Penelope may be a fighter and a survivor, but what’s the point of surviving if you’re not going to live a little? Written by Finlay Bain Directed by Jordan Murphy “It’s pretty impressive how many subtle themes are cleverly sewn into the plot, a testament to the strong writing that makes Living a Little so much more than an offbeat comedy. This is a fresh and brave exploration of friendship which is both touching and hilarious in equal measure, it’s well written and beautifully performed.” - Theatre Weekly ★★★★★ “Led by Murphy's clear vision for the show, the company tells an acutely hilarious and socially aware story encompassing true friendship, eccentric coping methods, and a broader reflection on humanity” - Broadway World ★★★★ Winner of the Origins Award at The Vault Festival for Outstanding New Work
Manual Cinema Presents: Leonardo! A Wonderful Show About a Terrible Monster
Adapted from the beloved children's books by Mo Willems, Leonardo! tells the story of a monster who longs to be scary and the big decisions he must make along the way. This visually stunning production is realised through puppets, paper cut-outs, DIY cinema and live original songs by critically acclaimed multimedia artists Manual Cinema.
Dan Cook: Loud Bit, Quiet Bit, Loud Bit, Quiet Bit
An hour-long distraction from the fact we have reached the end of days via the medium of jokes. Topics include his personal favourites - himself, the world, and how everything is awful. Tour Support for Fin Taylor. As seen on 'Toast of London' (C4), 'Poldark' (BBC1), and 'Absolutely Fabulous the Movie'.
Max Fosh: Zocial Butterfly
They said he couldn’t make it as a global fashion icon; they were wrong. They said he couldn’t legally become the world's richest man; they were wrong. They said he couldn’t beat all the odds to become London’s first ever YouTuber mayor... to be fair, they got that one bang on. But now, armed with the rosiest of cheeks & the floppiest of hair, Max Fosh faces his next challenge - the Edinburgh Fringe Festival - as he brings you his hilarious & unpredictable debut live show: Zocial Butterfly. Let's #TakeEdinburghToTheMax.
Deirdre O'Kane: Demented
Don't miss the star of Sky's The Deirdre O'Kane Show and Moone Boy, and the voice of Gogglebox Ireland, as she returns to Fringe!
Messiah
An intense and darkly provocative retelling of the myths and realities surrounding the rise and fall of Christ. Fusing realism and surrealism, history and the present, poetry and vulgarity, we enter a beguiling picture of the last days of Jesus' life and those that surround him. A cast of four play multiple characters, moving between ensemble, monologue and song. Includes nudity.
Michelle Shaughnessy: Be Your Own Daddy
The show, directed by Adam Hills (The Last Leg and Bafta Nominee), ‘Be Your Own Daddy’ is the story of how Michelle spent her whole existence waiting for someone to fix her life. Already established in Canada, she’s had numerous TV appearances and her debut album ‘You Know What You Did’ hit number one on the iTunes comedy charts.
Drunk Women Solving Crime
This is a true-crime podcast with a twist...of lime. Each episode sees the boozed-up panel of writer/comedian hosts Hannah George, Catie Wilkins, and Taylor Glenn welcome a top guest to test out their drunk detective skills and solve true crime cases. When women sit around and drink we try to solve the world's problems. So we're taking back the night and putting our inebriation to good use. You're welcome. 10 dates only - book early! Previous guests include Katherine Ryan, Ricki Lake, Deborah Frances -White, Sara Pascoe, and Shazia Mirza among many others.
Rachel Parris: All Change Please
Bafta-nominated comedian, Rachel Parris, is back with a brand-new show about big life changes. Join viral sensation and star of BBC’s The Mash Report as she performs stand-up and songs about sudden love, the highs and lows of relationships, family, weddings, kids, going viral, going mental, and the baffling state of play in society right now.
Eli Matthewson: Daddy Short-Legs
Award-winning Eli Matthewson, is taking you back through some huge life revelations that took place in some seriously shitty cars, from when he came out to his dad, to ten years later when his dad came out to him. WINNER Best Show 2021 NZ International Comedy Festival WINNER Director's Award 2019, NZ International Comedy Festival 30 Best Jokes of the Edinburgh Fringe 2019 The Telegraph
Roisin Crowley Linton: Medusa - CANCELLED
Roisin Crowley Linton returns with an inspiring, seductive, provocative, and punk-rock show about sexual violence, the NHS, police, and more in her trademark autobiographical comedy, poetry and cabaret style.
Eme Essien: Flat Shoes in the Club
It's Saturday night, the big girls' night out and this girl is trying to get ready on time. Unfortunately, people won't stop interrupting her. Delve into her world as she figures out what to wear, how to do her hair and what to do when she gets there. Uncensored, dishevelled and sincere, this is the internal conflict of a woman trying to achieve modern ideals and aspirations, in an hour of character comedy from award winner Eme Essien.
Scummy Mummies
New songs! New sketches! New catsuits! And even some new jokes! Join Ellie and Helen as they celebrate the scummier side of parenting, from drinking wine at teatime to hiding from the PTA. Bring your friends and make it a mum's (or dad's!) night out! Based on the hit Scummy Mummies podcast and best-selling book. As heard on Radio 4 and featured by The Guardian, The Sunday Times and The Telegraph. @scummymummies
Ganesh and Cydney's Clinic
Imagine if Prince and Mae West were best friends.Now throw in some glitter, filth, a dash of camp and you're nearly there... After travelling the globe seeking the reaffirmation their lovers never gave them, Ganesh and Cydney have landed in Edinburgh, on a mission to rid the city of lovesickness. 'Clinic' is a new cabaret experience, that's cliche and unconventional in equal measure. With the help of a little audience participation, some outrageously intimate anecdotes, and original songs, 'patients' are taken on a euphoric and enlightening journey towards sexual discovery and self-love. The perfect night-time remedy!
The Final Approach
Obsessed by detective stories and film noir, Sam can’t help but start digging when his long-term crush drops a case into his lap. As sleep deprivation sets in Sam struggles to hold onto reality and one supposed cheating partner leads to a seismic scandal systematically spread across campus. Using a combination of theatre, film, soundscape and radio Sam recreates the cinematic 'noirish' nightmare inside his mind.
Garry Starr: Greece Lightning
An overzealous idiot attempts to perform all of Greek Mythology in less than 60 minutes to save his Hellenic homeland from economic ruin. Never before has Medusa been looser, Achilles more sillies, or Uranus so heinous. Having single handedly saved the performing arts in 2018 with his multi-award-winning debut show Garry Starr Performs Everything, comic wunderkind Garry Starr returns with another anarchic masterclass not to be mythed.
Tom Skelton: 2020 Visions (What If I Hadn't Gone Blind?)
Ten years (well, now twelve…) after losing most of his sight, ‘deliciously talented’ (Guardian) Tom looks back and wonders what might have been. But would Tom from 2020 (or 2022) really swap places with fantasy Tom with 20:20 vision? Perth Fringe World Weekly Comedy Award Winner 2020. New Zealand Fringe Official Complete Sell Out 2020!
Troy Story
But outside its impregnable walls, a wooden horse stands alone and unguarded. And everyone's pretty sure it wasn't there yesterday. As news ripples through the city of its sudden arrival the politicians, citizens, soldiers and royals all have the same question: what in the Hades do we do about it?
HarleQueen
In this award-winning show you will laugh, you will cry, you will not be impressed by Abby's ventriloquist skills, but she will do it anyway. Winner - Festival Director's Pick - New Zealand Comedy Festival Winner - Best Comedy - Week Four 2020, Adelaide Fringe Festival Winner - Emerging Artist 2020, Adelaide Fringe Festival Winner - Best Comedy 2019, Dunedin Fringe Festival
Unfortunate: The Untold Story of Ursula the Sea Witch
From multi-award-winning Fat Rascal Theatre and fresh from complete sell out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe and around the UK comes this critically acclaimed hit parody musical. ‘Unfortunate’ splashes into Edinburgh with a 70-minute festival version - and things are gonna get wet. Join everyone’s favourite Disney Diva, Ursula, as she gives her take on what really happened all those years ago under the sea. With an original hot pop soundtrack and trademark filthy humour, it’s time to take the plunge and dive in to this year’s hottest night out. Cruella told her side, and Maleficent’s had her moment. Now the legendary queer queen is ready to spill, in this tell-all tale of sex, sorcery and suckers. Starring: Elliotte Williams-N'Dure as Ursula Allie Dart as Sebastian Miracle Chance as Ariel George Whitty as Triton and Cover Scuttle Jamie Mawson as Eric Jack Gray as Scuttle and Cover Eric/Triton Robyn Grant as Cover Ursula Danni Payne as Cover Sebastian/Ariel Book and Lyrics by Robyn Grant and Daniel Foxx Music by Tim Gilvin Director: Robyn Grant Choreographer: Melody Sinclair Musical Director: Arlene McNaught Associate Musical Director: Amelia Davies Set Design: Abby Clarke Costume Design: Cory Shipp Lighting Design: Douglas Kuhrt Sound Design: Dominic Cusack and Joe Cusack Puppet Design: Abby Clarke and Hugh Purves Make-Up Design: Maya Lewis Arrangements and Orchestrations: Tim Gilvin Additional Casting: Pearson Casting Creative Associate: Allie Munro Production Management: Andreas Ayling and Aimee Woods CSM: Katie Jackson Sound No.1: Aeron Donnelly Jackson/Erik Jackson Wardrobe: Kirsty Hale
Horseplay: Bareback
A dead divorce enthusiast takes matters into her own hands and organises a sex conference. A talking vagina writes a beat poem. Timothee Chalamet tries to be adorable. The afterlife is on the brink of collapse. From writer/performers Kathy Maniura (Sketch Off Winner 2020, SYTYF Finalist 2021) and Derek Mitchell (2NorthDown Semifinalist 2021), Bareback is about sex and performance. Expect big characters, original musical numbers and lots of wigs.
Werewolf: Live – Charity Spectacular!
Charity spectacular! Watch as an all-star lineup of comedians backstab, manipulate and fight for survival in cult game show Werewolf: Live. ONE NIGHT ONLY! Expect chaos. Previous guests include Rose Matafeo, Nish Kumar, Ed Gamble, London Hughes, Adam Hills, Iain Stirling, Mark Watson, Mae Martin and many more. Best Newcomer Nominee, Brighton Fringe 2017
Posey Mehta: I Am Not a Gorilla
After five years of living her best gorilla life, it’s finally time for her to leave her cage and re-enter the human world. But before that, she’s going on a date. This surreal, clowny character comedy about being othered and lonely marks the comedy debut of Posey Mehta, a Cambridge- and Gaulier-trained big fat idiot.
Winston and David
Written by Robert Lloyd George, referencing previously unseen family documents and directed by Fringe regular, Maverick’s Nick Hennegan (Henry V, A Christmas Carol, Hamlet-Horatio’s Tale with Sir Derek Jacobi, Romeo and Juliet, and P.A.L.S.).
James Barr: Straight Jokes
An out-of-control hour of jokes from the utterly hilarious, nearly national treasure. James roasts his ex-employers and navigates the exhausting admin of finally accepting who you are. A battlecry to be yourself. The gay half of hit comedy podcast A Gay and A NonGay, which has had over 5 million listens, and co-host of The Hits Radio Breakfast Show. The award-winning ginger returns to Edinburgh after his five-star 2019 debut, Thirst Trap.
Your Dad's Mum: Tonight at the Social Club
Leicester Comedy Festival award nominees return to the fringe following their acclaimed 2021 run. Join your hosts - jaded northern entertainer Pat Bashford and his over-woke niece Cheri-Anne for a raucously daft, fast-paced hour, featuring games, adequate prizes, musical interludes and late night fun. Starring Chortle Award winner Bexie Archer and fringe favourite Kevin Dewsbury (Kev’s Komedy Kitchen).
Austentatious
Every single day, an all-star cast improvise a brand new Jane Austen novel based entirely on a single suggestion from the audience. Performed in period costume with live musical accompaniment, this is Austen as you’ve never seen her before: award-winning, riotous and unmissable.
Lightweight
As a last-ditch effort to recover from eating disorders, Amie enters a 28-day addiction treatment facility and remains there for a year. Tortured by her wildly dysfunctional parents, a seductive cupcake, and the ghost of a dead music icon, Amie surrenders to the fact that she may never recover... Until a new patient enters and disrupts her world forever. Winner "Best Festival Debut" - United Solo Festival, New York City 2021
Havana Street Party - CANCELLED
Unfortunately this run of Havana Street Party has been cancelled due to VISA issues. We would love you to attend another one of our other moo-vellous shows: BOOM Circa: Humans 2.0 Cirque Alfonse
The Political Party with Matt Forde: Gordon Brown
Matt Forde (Have I Got News For You, Spitting Image, The Last Leg) is joined by former Prime Minister Gordon Brown. One of the most significant ever figures in British politics, Gordon was Chancellor for 10 years and PM for 3. He will be reflecting on his immense career as well as discussing his brilliant new book. The podcast has over 7m downloads and is regularly in iTunes’ Top 10 comedy podcasts. Previous guests include: Tony Blair, Jacob Rees-Mogg, Michael Heseltine, Nicola Sturgeon, Angela Rayner and Alastair Campbell.
Make-up
Lady Christina leaves the stage after another performance above another pub. Drag has become a drag and tonight could be her last ever show. But when the make-up comes off, the face in the mirror takes Chris Laneghan back to life before Christina came along. Can he live if living is without her? Step off the stage, leave the glamour and the costumes behind, and get to know the person behind the make-up.
Blunderland
The subversive break-out hit of the international cabaret and circus circuit, we have arrived with a STRONG dose of what we all need at the moment: some outrageous nightlife naughtiness, club-kid antics, and a heady dose of arthouse-weird. Born out of the New York underground queer nightlife scene this show has titillating packed crowds worldwide who are enthralled with its uniquely whimsical and ridiculous performance combinations. Join us for an evening of sensually disastrous drag, burlesque, and circus you won't forget!! Edinburgh Festival Fringe Cast Adam Malone Bede Nash Emily Chilvers Leo Petland Eric Schmalenberger Olivia Porter Tara Boom Themme Fatale
Midnight Snacks
Relax to surreal stories, tall tales and strange sketches as a changing roster of comedians from across the length and breadth of the city guide you to sleep: welcome to the Fringe’s daily lullaby. Dreamy visuals and an ambient score will aid the relaxation and all profits go to charity. EDINBURGH FRINGE 2022 LINE-UP 16 Aug Jon and Ollie Lachlan Werner Laurie Black 17 Aug Lucas Arnold Rohan Sharma Kiran Saggu 18 Aug An(dre)a Sascha Lo Mustafa Yasin 19 Aug Eryn Tett Aidan Sadler Rob Duncan More acts still to be announced... Line-up's subject to change. PREVIOUS SHOW LINE-UPS 3 Aug Adam Al-Janabi Hannah Brown 4 Aug Stepan Mysko von Schultze Hannah Brown Cowtools 5 Aug 2 Mouthed Men Vidura Bandara Rajapaksa Mudfish 7 Aug Ben Pollard Eryn Tett 8 Aug Leo Reich Vidura Bandara Rajapaksa Shelf 11 Aug Finlay Christie 13 Aug Mamoun Elagab 100% of Profits will be donated to Mind via Work for Good. Estimated donation: £737.79
Brave Space
Starting as a puddle of fabric on the floor, it grows to encompass a wondrous world of circus. Intimate and low tech, the audience sits nose-to-nose with an all-female cast of bold physical artists to build the world we want to live in, even for only a few shared moments.
Mitch Benn: It's About Time
If it feels like the past is catching up with us and the future isn't what it used to be, then fear not! Comedian, songwriter and thinker of deep thoughts, ("the country's leading musical satirist" - The Times) is back, clock in one hand and guitar in the other, to help you look and laugh at time in a whole new way. "Time you enjoy wasted is not time wasted" John Lennon.
Briefs: Bite Club
An event sautéed in a hedonistic haze of music, circus, drag, burlesque, theatre, and comedy. Described as one of Australia’s most arresting performers, Sahara Beck’s soaring vocals will blast female pride power into the ferociously fierce displays of talent from the BRIEFS boys you know and love. Their slick tomfoolery and heart-stopping hooliganism will be bathed in suave synth, heady hooks, and swelling strings, all set to a glorious pop pulse.
Daniel Cainer: More Jewish Chronicles (and Other Musical Stories)
Six off-Broadway runs and 15 EdFringes. He's written scores for film and TV, his songs have been performed by cabaret artistes and rabbis, his music has launched a thousand cars and washing machines. He's been the "Singing Reporter" on BBC and the world's only "Singing Astrologer" (probably). (Bagels not included)
Morgan Jay: Emotional Damage
With his warm and immersive musical comedy Morgan Jay has had multiple TV appearances in the US and amassed over half million followers on tiktok and over 20 million views across all platforms. Morgan creates a unique experience with his songs about love, dating, and relationships. With his heavy use of audience participation and musical improv no two shows are exactly the same.
Rebel
Stage dive into the mosh pit for a night of live music, glittering glam rock, phenomenal acrobatics, breath-taking aerials and spectacular heart-stopping sideshow. Combining music and circus, bringing to life an incredible body of work that spanned over 50 years, with an aesthetic that inspired generations.
Mother: Colleagues - CANCELLED
What happens if your comedy partner suddenly has to leave Edinburgh? You perform your two hander...alone. Character, sketch, chaos.
Splash Test Dummies
Splash Test Dummies are here, ready to roll out their beach towels and spring into an hour of circus-filled hilarity for the whole family. See a brilliant array of catch- your-breath stunt work, acrobatics, juggling and the side- splitting, slapstick comedy for which the dummies are famous. Join the Dummies and come diving from bathtubs to beaches in this aquatic adventure! Winner of Best Children's Presentation - Adelaide Fringe 2020.
Good Grief
A dying man’s last wish: for his friends to create a show about death. Will it be subtle? Will it be sophisticated? Probably not, but it’s his funeral. Literally. Multi award-winning physical comedy company Ugly Bucket process the death of a friend in the only way they know how – through a kinetic maelstrom of outrageous clowning, personal testimony and a thumping techno soundtrack. Ugly Bucket are thrilled to present this hilarious gut-punch of a show.
Myra DuBois' A Problem Shared
Utilising her 'unique' people skills the fringe favourite, alongside her sister Rose, selflessly takes on the woes of her adoring audience and special guests. Myra is giving the world of self-help the enema it so desperately needs! Come; be cleansed. As seen in Everybody's Talking About Jamie, BBC's The John Bishop Show, and ITV's Britain's Got Talent.
Pear
You have a one in 250 chance of being an identical twin, so for Hugo and Patrick McPherson, they started life by being a bit unusual. And that's not all: 6'8", benders of the truth, and standing at 6'7", these enormous twins now launch their debut show, Pear. A riotous, absurd and hilarious collection of sketch comedy and wacky characters. There was originally cultural commentary; it got cut for time. But it was as brave as much as it is now not in the show. An unapologetically original hour of comedy.
Paul Foot: Swan Power
Paul opens his beak and explores topics including Nanna on the rack, murdering Santas and interfering ambulance drivers (self-appointed busybodies!) Plus Billy Zane's Valuable Diamond (c/o RMS Titanic). Live by the swan, fly by the swan. A mulit-award winning comedian, Paul's most recent television and radio appearances include '8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown' Channel 4, 'Breaking The News' BBC Radio Scotland and 'Dave News' for Dave at the 2019 Edinburgh Fringe.
Richard David-Caine: Tall, Dark and Anxious
High-octane character comedy from one of the UK’s foremost TV sketch comedians, as seen in the BAFTA- winning series Horrible Histories, Class Dismissed and People Just Do Nothing. Richard David-Caine returns to Edinburgh with his breakout debut show, after five phenomenal years performing with Fringe favourites, Four Screws Loose. Directed by Matthew Floyd Jones (Frisky & Mannish), this bold and explosive show features outlandish characters, original songs, and daring insights into the actor behind all the faces.
Raves R Us
Toys R Us has closed down for good leaving Charlie and his mates unemployed, depressed and searching for any escape from this rundown bigot-lead society. Charlie's vision arrives fully formed. They have an abandoned warehouse, an abandoned nation... it's time to make a sanctuary, an escape... a Rave. Inspired from a true story out of Hounslow, London. Raves R Us will combine all favourite Naughty Corner features along with an immersive setting and atmosphere to create the most energetic, original night of theatre you've ever been a part of. Raves R Us was a huge hit at Glastonbury festival 2019, RooSold Out at Vault Festival 2020 and will burst through your expectations of theatre. Don't miss it...Just don't.
Sami Abu Wardeh: Bedu
Watch Sami Abu Wardeh combine seamless storytelling and chaotic physical clowning in his Edinburgh debut about immigration, ninjas, dance and tomatoes (lots and lots of little tomatoes). Chortle: One to Watch 2022 Winner of Best of Brighton Fringe Award 2021
Steve and Tobias Versus Death
Tobias hates mash and Steve hates Tobias, but when they discover their mom to be patient zero in a world of flesh-eating zombies, the torn apart brothers get pieced back together, only to be torn apart all over again. Under-pinned by a deep sense of tragedy and fuelled by meticulously choreographed fights, improvised comedy and a dystopian backdrop collide to tell the nightmare story of an absentee father, a bed-ridden mother, and an apocalypse bursting through the door.
Sasha Ellen: Creeps and Geeks
Is because of killer sex robots, or, is it because of sambuca? Or all of the above? Sasha Ellen takes a hilarious journey into unsafe spaces, encountering errant schoolboys, level 9 healers and strangely sexy Quiz masters. Material heard on BBC Radio 4 Extra Leicester Comedy Festival Best New Show Nominee
This Moment in America
There’s little room for nuance in tweets or slogans. Seeking a deeper conversation, this live audio drama features ever-changing vignettes drawn from real stories across the country, interwoven with current events’ transcripts. Traveling America, gathering American stories, this show has been developed through workshops in writing and performance to promote community and personal healing, asking, "What unites us, in these United States?"
The Durham Revue: Deja Revue
Join the award-winning Durham Revue, one of the UK's most famous student comedy groups, for an hour of hilarious and cutting-edge sketches. Please come, the longer we spend in Edinburgh, the longer we can avoid getting real jobs.
Blanket Ban
Malta: Catholic kitsch, golden sun, deep blue sea, Eurovision - and a blanket ban on abortion. Propelled by three years of interviews with anonymous contributors and their own lived experience, actors and activists Marta and Davinia interrogate Malta’s restrictions on the freedom of women. What does it mean for your home to boast the world’s most progressive LGBTQIA rights, leading transgender laws – and a population that is almost unanimously anti-choice? A rallying cry from award-winning Chalk Line Theatre. Sandie von Brockdorff will be playing the role of Marta on the 4th, 5th, 6th, 26th, 27th & 28th of August and the role of Davinia on the 16th of August.
The Failure Cabaret
In this dark comedy cabaret, Stephanie Dodd from Fremont, Nebraska (Vocals/Accordion) & Justin Badger from Fremont, California (Vocals/Guitar) use original music to tell their story of meeting in New York, performing on Broadway, accidentally moving to a pretentious mountain town and doing everything in their power to stay sane and married at the same time. This show was born when Executive Producer, Chuck Porter declared, "Hey kids, let's do a show!"‚ after a few beers in a hotel bar.
Caligari
Tonight, a new Caligari comes to life – accompanied by a five-piece band. Off West End Award-winning ChewBoy Productions present their minty-fresh take on a German horror cult-classic. Five actor-musicians reimagine the seminal silent film, this time with the doctor’s victims taking centre stage. Embracing the long shadows and broad brushstrokes of German expressionism, ChewBoy’s Caligari exposes parallels between post-war Weimar and the UK today – an ever-widening class divide, a subconscious need for a tyrant, and an unwillingness to rebel against deranged authority.
Cassie and the Lights
When Cassie's mother disappears, the teenager wants to care for her sisters on her own. Is she the right person to be a parent now, or should she let foster parents adopt her sisters and create a new family? Based on real-life events and interviews with children in care and with live music, Cassie and the Lights examines our ideas of what makes a family. Best Theatre winner – Adelaide Fringe. Relaxed Performance - 15th August
The Sian Clarke Experience
A dark, twisted, comedic piece full of aggression and discomfort, examining the constraints of a woman biting back in a society eager to silence and vilify those no longer accepting its bullshit. That, or a show about a woman who needs to learn to take a joke. There will be barking, there will be screaming, there will be blood.
Ellie MacPherson: Happy Birthday, Mr. President!
Happy Birthday, Mr. President! is a journey through the lives of the men (ugh, yes, all men) who have held the highest US office. Join Ellie and her band The Secret Service as she chronicles the weird, human sides of Commanders-in-Chief. Featuring a variety of music from Whitney Houston to Radiohead, old-school rap to classic country. In her Fringe debut, this “genuinely hilarious stellar songstress” (TheaterPizzazz.com) from New York creates a fun and funny cabaret classroom about the dudes who've led America.
Love Them to Death
School Attendance Officer Kelly isn't so sure. A piece about who is telling the truth, how we come to that decision, and whether the truth even exists most of the time. A dark and twisty tale set in the borderlands between love and violence – inspired by real events. Written by Max Dickins (The Man on the Moor, Kin, The Trunk) and directed by five-time Fringe First winner Hannah Eidinow.
This is Not a Show About Hong Kong
This is not a virtuosic, visually stunning dance-theatre show about Hong Kong or its people. It's not about the effects of censorship brought by the National Security Bill, nor is it about the loss of freedom in the Special Administrative Region. This is not a show about that deep, sinking, helpless feeling that we can't quite put into words. Everything is fine. Max Percy + Friends are not here.
The Ugly Animal Preservation Society
Biologist and comedian Simon Watt is dedicated to raising the profile of some of Mother Nature's more aesthetically challenged children. The panda gets too much attention. He is joined by top comics who want to share their love of endangered but hideous species. We made the blobfish famous and are now building up to the first International Ugly Animal Day. Special guests will include Neil Delamer, Sophie Duker, Elf Lyons, Alasdair Beckett-King, George Egg, and more.
Definitely Maybe Actually Nevermind
Join drag artist Crystal Bollix as they take on their greatest enemy yet ... Romantic Comedies. Fall in love with this new cabaret extravaganza all about the pitfalls of chick-flicks and Colin Firth. Watch as they navigate the tricky world of rom-com masculinity, femininity and beyond. Expect gorgeous costumes, dazzling lip sync, and maybe a surprise guest or two...
Swell
In 2014, residents of Fairbourne were watching their local news when they found out they were to be Britain's first climate refugees, with their town set to be decommissioned and depopulated by 2054. Housing prices dropped over night, insurance disappeared, and life savings were lost in the chaos. Swell follows the story of two siblings caught in the purgatory of a fictional but analogous town, ready to be abandoned. Swell asks: how are we able to understand ourselves when the places we call home crumble around us?
Tamar Broadbent Presents... Stacey Solo
Inspired by all your favourite Netflix heroines, this is an action-packed, utterly ridiculous show that asks ‘how many characters can one actor play?’ and ‘who promoted that kangaroo?' A must-see for all crime drama fans this festival.