Pleasance's Edinburgh Fringe Brochure 2023

about your visit & How to book

in person

PLEASANCE COURTYARD

2pm - 6pm, 31st July

10am - 6pm, 1st August

9:30am - 11:30pm, 2nd - 28th August (or 15 minutes after start offinal performance)

PLEASANCE

60 Pleasance, EH8 9TJ courtyard Cabaret Bar

Above The Attic

· Baby Grand

Below Beneath

Beside

· Beyond Bunker One Bunker Two

· Bunker Three

The Cellar · Forth Info Shed Kidzone Pleasance One

Pleasance Two The Grand The Green · Upstairs

PLEASANCE DOME

10am - 11:30pm, 2nd - 28th August (or 15 minutes after start offinal performance)

PLEASANCE AT EICC

From 30 minutes before the first performance to 15 minutes after the start of the final performance, 2nd - 27th August.

by phone online

PLEASANCE

1 Bristo Square, EH8 9AL

10 Dome

Jack Dome Queen Dome

King Dome

Ace Dome

Potterrow Plaza

PLEASANCE AT

eicc

150 Morrison Street, EH3 8EE

Cromdale Tunnel

Lennox Theatre

· Lomond Theatre

Pentland Theatre

Sidlaw Theatre

Pleasance.co.uk

Monday 7th & Tuesday 8th August

2 for 1 tickets on all eligible shows!

booking fee

0131 556 6550 10am - 6pm £1.25 per ticket on all website and telephone bookings, capped at £5 per transaction.

some important notes

Concession prices (where applicable) are available to children under 18, students in full time education, registered unemployed, senior citizens and disabled people. Pleasance staff members reserve the right to ask for materials that provide proof of status, before and after purchase. All tickets are non-exchangeable and non-refundable, and latecomers are not admitted. Audience members are responsible for checking the locations of their performances across all our sites to ensure entry in good time, and as standard we recommend arriving 30 minutes before the start of the performance. All listed times are for the start of the performance, rather than doors opening. The venue management reserves the right to alter the published programme and to refuse admission. All tickets for the Pleasance programme are seated and unreserved, unless otherwise stated.

@ThePleasance

pleasance at eicc

The Pleasance has worked in partnership with Edinburgh’s International Conference Centre since 2016. We are delighted to be partnering with them again this summer. Their brilliant theatre spaces and state of the art facilities allow us to present some of the most complex and technically demanding shows on the Fringe.

Shows by Venue

Children’s Shows

All Shows

Index Programme Overview

contents access

8 & 9 10 - 15

16 - 82

84 - 87

88 - 97

While a great deal of investment has been made in our facilities, the large majority of our performance spaces are built specifically for the festival. We make adjustments to give reasonable access and are constantly looking to upgrade and improve our on-site facilities, so your feedback is invaluable in helping us.

If you would like to provide feedback on your experience at the Pleasance, you can:

Leave us a review on Euan’s Guide

Email us via access@pleasance.co.uk

Phone us on 0131 556 6550

Or talk to a member of Pleasance staff during your visit to the venue.

accessibility information

All of our spaces at the Pleasance are wheelchair accessible. For more information about access lifts, visit: Trust.Pleasance.co.uk/Content/ Accessibility

induction loops

accessibile performances

You can find all shows with Accessible Performances listed at: Pleasance.co.uk/Events/ Accessible

Induction loops are available at all our venues. Please let us know by email in advance of your visit if you would like to use the hearing loop system and any preferences. On arrival at the venue, please approach a member of our Front of House team.

If you require any further assistance on site, please visit the Info Booth at the Courtyard, or the Box Office at the Dome and EICC.

welcome to the pleasance

Pleasance: A pleasure ground; a feeling of pleasure or delight

Welcome to the Pleasance programme for our 39th Festival Fringe!

We are thrilled to bring you an incredible line-up of shows and events, showcasing some of the most exciting and innovative talent from around the world. Our diverse programme offers something for everyone, from great comedy and theatre to music, children’s shows and dance.

At the Pleasance, we are a charity committed to supporting emerging artists and providing a platform for new and diverse voices. This year, our development arm, Pleasance Futures, is proud to support 23 shows from across the entire country.

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our partners and supporters, without whom none of this would be possible. We would also like to give a special thank you to Jim Aitken MBE, who retires from the University Centre for Sports and Exercise. CSE has been a gracious host to the Pleasance for over twenty years, and we are grateful for Jim’s unwavering support.

We very much look forward to welcoming you to the Pleasance for an unforgettable festival experience.

Anthony Alderson Director, The Pleasance Theatre Trust

a big thank you to...

The Pleasance Theatre Trust would like to thank: Our media partners The Skinny, Fest Magazine, The List, The Scotsman and The Knowledge. The Fringe Society, Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) and our EdFest venue partners: Assembly, Gilded Balloon, Just The Tonic, Underbelly and Zoo Venues.

Our partners at the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh University Students’ Association, Chaplaincy Centre, Royal Medical Society, Festivals Office and Centre for Sports and Exercise, who recognise the development work of emerging talent and allow us to use the Bunker spaces free of charge.

Our technical and IT partners: BlackLight Production Services, Blue-i, Orbital Sound and Red61. Our charity partners Waverley Care.

Our friends Andrew Sykes, Arena Seating, Chloe Nelkin Consulting, Clare Furey, Eventotron, Integro, Jarvie Plant, Risk Control Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, SR Datacomms, Sue Cunningham, Theatre Futures, The Beach House, The Five Star Group, The Salvation Army, Edinburgh, Tom Dearden, Shyheim Weir, Gillian Hunt, Workspace, Claire Hill, Josh Hepple, Deaf Action, Petra Luckman, Charlotte Colbert, Martin Hunt, Jessica Malik, City of Edinburgh Council, Creative Scotland, Scottish Government and Islington Council.

We are also extremely grateful to all of our supporters, patrons and you, the audience!

We would like to thank our Pleasance Futures partners: Bristol Old Vic, Eden Court Theatre, York Theatre Royal, Theatre Royal Plymouth, Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Sherman Theatre, Home Manchester, Lyric Belfast, Leicester Curve, Les Enfants Terribles, The Popcorn Group and VAULT Festival.

We would also like to thank our selection panel for the Charlie Hartill Fund for UK-based Black, Asian and Global Majority Artists: Nikita Karia, Ameena Hamid and ShayShay.

Trusts and Foundations: The Austin and Hope Pilkington Trust, The Backstage Trust, Capricorn Energy, Crerar Trust, H Mann Foundation, John Ellerman Foundation, Nancie Massie Charitable Trust, Schreier Foundation, Radio Forth Cash for Kids, The Russell Trust, Wavendon Foundation, Theatres Trust, The Rose Foundation and Equity Charitable Trust.

Thank you to our patrons Ellie and Duncan MacKinnon, Claire and Mark Bailey, Andrew and Kirsty Desson, David Gray, Josie Malcolm, Valerie and David Lindsay, Sarah Potter and Anthony and Claire Tait and Michael Dale.

A very special thank you to Jim Aitken MBE, a great supporter of the Pleasance over twenty years and Christopher Richardson, the Pleasance’s founder and patron, for starting this journey 39 years ago. Finally, thank you to our brilliant trustees, volunteers and staff, for keeping it going today.

BABY

BELOW

BEYOND

BUNKER ONE

CABARET BAR

BUNKER TWO

THE CELLAR

FORTH

PLEASANCE ONE

THE GREEN

PLEASANCE TWO

THE GRAND

info booth

DOME

Pleasance Kids

The Pleasance is your one-stop-shop for family entertainment on the Fringe, with lots of brilliant kid-friendly shows to discover. Plus we’ve got arts and craft activities in the Pleasance Kidzone at the Courtyard (in weather-proof pods) and food and drink available from the Cafe on the Green!

10:00 (10:40)

Dragon Song Productions

CHILDREN'S SHOWS PLEASANCE COURTYARD • THE GREEN

SEA DRAGON FOR UNDER 5S

Sea Dragon is an exceptional show for under 5s at this year's Fringe. It is a great way for young children to enjoy a truly interactive show. They are each given a props bag full of age appropriate percussion, dressing up, lights, puppets and pom poms. The show tells the story of a magical coral reef that has lost its colour. Kipper the Sea Dragon searches the ocean for help, and engages with 3 magnificent kelpies, a starfish, a crab and some cool seahorses.

10:35 (11:35)

Rubbish Shakespeare Company

RUBBISH ROMEO AND JULIET

CHILDREN'S SHOWS

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • BENEATH

Enemies. Balconies. Kissing... sausage rolls!? Three idiots perform Shakespeare’s tragedy, using only a box of tatty wigs, a floral dress and an airbed they found by the bins. Anarchic, joyous and family-friendly. Ages 5-105!

Delightfully wacky

Families Edinburgh Magazine

They set it up so cleverly that it really sings Daily Record

CHILDREN'S SHOWS

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • ABOVE 10:30 (11:30)

Magic Gareth

MAGIC GARETH: LEVEL UP!

Take a chance, believe in the magic (and yourself)!

1-up your Fringe game with this family magic show extravaganza. Add in a grumpy unicorn, 10 XP, games, and trickery and prepare to Level UP!

For ages 5+.

Children’s magic doesn’t get much better than this!

World Magic Review

11:00 (11:40)

Dragon Song Productions

CHILDREN'S SHOWS PLEASANCE COURTYARD • THE GREEN

SEA DRAGON BABIES

Sea Dragon is the most perfect theatre experience to bring your baby to. Each child has a props bag full of age-appropriate percussion, lights, puppets and more. The story tells of a magical coral reef which has suddenly lost its colour. Kipper the Sea Dragon searches the ocean for help from 3 kelpies, a starfish, a crab and some beautiful seahorses. The amazing felt puppets and beautiful live piano music is transfixing for young babies from weeks to a year old.

10:35 (11:25)

Fladam

GREEN FINGERS

A deliciously Dahl-esque treat from madcap musical duo Fladam. Did you ever hear the tale of Green Fingers? A boy born with hands that turn all he touches a shocking shade of green! But is he really rotten? Find out in this magical, musical, storytelling show for the whole family!

The most amazing, hilarious musical comedy duo BBC Radio

Mervyn Stutter’s Pick of the Fringe

11:30 (12:30)

Ingenious Fools

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • BABY GRAND

BLUE BADGE BUNCH: RERAMPED

The disability Taskmaster! An interactive kids’ game show where each game represents a different disability and a panel of guests battle it out to come up trumps. Neurodiverse Representation Award 2022 (shortlist). Lyn Gardner’s VAULT Festival 2023 Top Picks.

Engagingly interactive

ThreeWeeks

Lots of fun Mix Up Theatre 19, 20 ALL

CHILDREN'S SHOWS

11:40 (12:40)

Impatient Productions

OLAF FALAFEL'S SUPER STUPID SHOW (20%

MORE STUPIDER)

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • BESIDE

12:00 (13:00)

Coppice Theatre

Comedian and children's author Olaf Falafel unleashes familyfriendly frivolity, now 20% more stupider than ever before. There will be truth-telling cheese, fishing, ducks, bumbags, sausages and maybe some drawing.

Time Out Top 10 Kids' Shows 2022.

Nominated Best Family Show, Leicester Comedy Festival 2023.

CHILDREN'S SHOWS PLEASANCE COURTYARD • THE GREEN

SCIENCE ADVENTURES: DEEP SEA

Head to the bottom of the sea for a dramatic aquatic adventure! Join Professor Flotsam and Dr Wright in their brand new submarine as they look for the strangest creatures in the deep, learn about looking after the oceans and hear some of their favourite sea stories!

The actors are both excellent, and the stories they tell are wonderful One4Review (for Tales from a Haunted Bookshop)

12:00 (13:00)

Doktor K Worldwide & Something for the Weekend DOKTOR KABOOM AND THE WHEEL OF EVEN MORE SCIENCE!

The Doktor is back! With even more science! More laughs! More Kaboom! After a spectacular debut in 2022, Doktor Kaboom returns to the Pleasance with all your favourite science demos plus brand new experiments and powerful life lessons for 2023. Giant chemical reactions! Fly on a homemade hovercraft! Shrink-wrap your teenager! Every show is different. This hilariously fun, empowering and wholly original show is a ‘must-see’ (Entertainment Now) for all ages.

Nothing short of perfect family entertainment

POW Showbiz

Theatre Weekly

13:05 (14:05)

Rubbish Shakespeare Company & Wing It Improv IMPROVISED RUBBISH SHAKESPEARE - THE INCOMPLETE WORKS

Shakespeare's gone AWOL, so his cast must make it up! With your help, they’ll create a laugh-outloud hour of family-friendly improv. No Shakespeare knowledge needed. For ages 6-106!

Delightfully bonkers Reviews Hub

Improvised theatre at its very best! At The Theatre

14:30 (15:30)

Delea Shand

CHILDREN'S SHOWS

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • THE GREEN

MADAME CHANDELIER'S OPERA PARTY FOR KIDS

Dazzling divas! Dramatic death scenes! Hilarious high notes!

Experience opera’s greatest hits and learn about the characters, in this interactive introduction with Madame Chandelier.

Praise for previous shows:

13:15 (14:15)

Impatient Productions / United Agents

SHELF: THE KIDS' SHOW

Join best friends Rachel and Ruby for a kids’ comedy show that’s fun for all the family! Full of sketches, songs, pranks, and silliness - a fun way for kids to explore emotions, friendship and shyness!

Winner, Best Kids’ Show, Leicester Comedy Festival 2023.

Guardian Scotsman

CHILDREN'S SHOWS PLEASANCE COURTYARD • PLEASANCE ABOVE

our volunteer VAULES

The Pleasance is a place where journeys begin. Our festival volunteer programme stands proudly at the heart of our organisation, giving people of all backgrounds and ambitions the opportunity to enhance their skills, grow confidence and become part of a community that puts people above all else.

It exists on five simple values:

It’s the journey that counts, not the destination Every volunteer’s experience should be memorable and they should take something from it that stays with them wherever they go next.

Go far, stumble often

Volunteers should have the opportunity to push themselves. People flourish just outside of their comfort zone and it’s here that confidence grows.

Many voices make for better conversations

The mix of people and the meeting of minds and ideas makes everybody’s time at the Pleasance infinitely more rewarding.

Time to explore

The fun that volunteers have outside the venue is as valuable as the experiences they gain within it.

We get there together

The Pleasance exists because of volunteers. Their contribution is significant, respected and celebrated. By supporting volunteers to realise their individual ambitions, we are able to achieve our own.

10:20 (11:30)

White Room Theatre Ed2023 Partnership

THE BIG BITE-SIZE BREAKFAST SHOW

Good morning, Edinburgh! We’re thrilled to be back for our 15th anniversary year! We'll be in our new home at Pleasance Beyond, bringing you three delicious, rotating 'menus' of 10-15 minute newly written comedies, eccentricities and minidramas – all served up with complimentary fresh Lavazza coffee, tea, croissant and strawberries. The perfect way to start your day. Doors open by 10am so come and meet the team before they perform for you. 'The tapas of the theatre scene' (ThreeWeeks), 'One of the most important shows you'll see on the Fringe' (Daily Record).

Brekkie brilliance Sunday Mail

The Carol Tambor Shortlist Award Winner, 2019 Best of Edinburgh

10:50 (12:00)

10:55 (11:55)

Naysay Productions

CHASING BUTTERFLIES

Murder in London: The Butterfly Butcher strikes again.

Beneath the bustling capital, a relentless evil continues to lurk. Pressure mounts on Detective Richards and the police to catch the serial killer that has haunted Whitechapel throughout 1985.

May God be with you all.

Lawrence Batley Theatre, Richard Jordan Productions, 412, Ketchup with Pleasance JESUS,

JANE, MOTHER,

Winner, Best Play, Critics Award; Theatre Weekly Award. Playwright Philip Stokes' (Heroin(e) for Breakfast) hilarious heartwrenching play about mothers, sons, and Jane McDonald, returns to Edinburgh following sell-out London and Adelaide seasons. 'Must see show!' (Fringe Review)

Stage, ThreeWeeks, Theatre Weekly & Adelaide Advertiser

EVENTS

11:00 (12:15)

Pleasance

PLEASANCE OPENING GALA

Join us for a very special preview of some of the most exciting shows in our 2023 programme and help us launch our 38th year on the Edinburgh Festival Fringe!

The Pleasance is the centre of the cultural universe

Scotsman

The heart of the greatest show on Earth

Edinburgh Festivals Magazine

THEATRE

PLEASANCE DOME • 10DOME

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • THE GRAND

11:00 (12:10)

Christopher C Gibbs WIESENTHAL

UK premiere of the acclaimed play by Tom Dugan, as seen offBroadway. 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.

A true story of an ordinary man who did extraordinary things. Performed by Christopher C Gibbs, directed by Mark Liebert.

Insightful, heartbreaking and beautiful New York Times

Heartfelt, engaging piece that transcends Time Out New York

Jeffrey Holland

...AND THIS IS MY FRIEND MR LAUREL

Jeffrey Holland (Hi-de-Hi, You Rang M'Lord) returns in this sell-out one-man show about friendship, memories and a couple of remarkable lives. Set in the bedroom of a sick Oliver Hardy, during Laurel's visit to the dying man. A humorous and touching look at one of the great cinematic partnerships of the last century.

Spellbinding and magically, timelessly funny Stage

THEATRE

11:35 (12:35)

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • BUNKER THREE

Sophie Joans - Spark in the Dark

ÎLE

Hot off an explosive run in South Africa, Sophie Joans erupts with her comedic coming-of-age story about returning to her ancestral island home, Mauritius. This multi award-winning play explores mother-daughter relationships, dodos and lava lamps. Directed by Rob van Vuuren, AKA viral sensation NamasteBae.

It’s a hell of a play. The writing is superb. It’s fast, funny, and able to turn on a dime Critter

11:00 - 19:00 PACK COLLECTION

Shanna May Breen & Luke

Casserly 1000 MINIATURE MEADOWS

An outdoor soundscape looking at Scotland’s biodiversity crisis. Part letter project, part sound project, and part city-wide planting project, this fizzy triptych will begin with you collecting a Listening Pack from the Pleasance Courtyard. To participate, you will need access to a smartphone with WiFi or data and a pair of headphones.

Business Post

11:30 - 21:00 EVERY 30 MIN

DARKFIELD

SÉANCE

SÉANCE transforms a 24ft container into a Victorian séance room. It asks you to believe, not only in what seems to be happening inside the container but in what might be conjured into the room with you.

It’s skin-tingling, breathquickening stuff Stage

A creepy and manipulative miniature which unsettles and makes you question not just your senses but what you actually believe Guardian

20 MINUTE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE

11:45 - 20:45 EVERY 45 MIN

DARKFIELD

EULOGY

EULOGY is a surreal, otherworldly journey through a dreamlike, labyrinthine hotel that exists entirely in your mind. Performed in complete darkness over 35 minutes, this exhilarating ride uses binaural sound and speech recognition technology to deceive the senses.

BBBB

A trippy, sensory adventure

Stage

£12.50 (£11)

11:45 (12:45)

Box Tale Soup

CASTING THE RUNES

'Who is this who is coming...'

You're invited to the edge of your seat, to the darkest corners of the night...

Following Fringe sell outs in 2018 & 2019, Box Tale Soup return with a heart stopping adaptation of M.R. James’ supernatural thriller. Our advice? Don’t come alone...

Remarkable Wee Review (for Gulliver, 2022)

Incredible Young Perspective (for Great Grimm Tales, 2019)

Beautifully crafted Fringe Guru (for Turn of the Screw, 2018)

11:45 (12:45)

Love Song Productions

SING, RIVER

Are you ready to be swallowed into the depths of the Thames? Weaving together an original folk score and tales from a romance best forgotten, Sing, River invites us into the hidden world of British mythology.

Vital, engaging, and experimental Isis Magazine

Inventive, unique Oxford Blue

A beautiful and thoughtprovoking experience Daily Info

11:50 (12:45)

Natasha Stanic Mann

THE RETURN

The beaches are lovely. Remembering is crass, embarrassing, and in poor taste. But to remember is to return. If we cannot return, where do we start from? Come to laugh, to cry and to feel awkward. Whatever it is, we will survive it - survival being an art. Or an embarrassment?

An immersive insight into hidden consequences of war.

Breath-taking, striking, utterly engrossing Everything Theatre

11:50 (12:50)

Ashlee Elizabeth-Lolo / The REcreate Agency

BLUEPRINTS

Are you destined to repeat ancestral patterns forever? If you could know the entire history of your bloodline, and everything you’re passing on to your children, would you want to know? Adam and Faith do. Welcome to the Blueprints programme, where we can protect you from the past because, after all, knowledge is power. Right? Blueprints, a new show by Ashlee Elizabeth-Lolo is about beginnings, knowledge, and ancestral inheritance.

11:50 (12:50)

Richard Clements

HOW TO BURY A DEAD MULE

Nominated for Best New Play at the UK Theatre Awards, the compellingly powerful and evocative story of Norman Clements, following his time on the front line during WW2 and his attempts to reconnect with family upon returning. An affecting and beautifully imaginative journey into the heart of a man trying to regain a foothold in society. Written/performed by Richard Clements. Directed by Matthew McElhinney.

12:00 (13:00)

Project Y and Richard Jordan Productions in association with Pleasance

YOGA WITH JILLIAN - A NEW COMEDY

A new screwball comedy about how Gwyneth Paltrow, guru culture, green juice, and your best downward-facing-dog can save the world! Brought to your yoga mat direct from its sellout Off-Broadway World Premiere season by the team behind laugh-out-loud Edinburgh smash hit Trump Lear and one of the US most exciting new writers.

Such a discovery is playwright Lia Romeo Theatremania

The laughs come hard and fast and the audience adore it ITV (for Trump Lear)

Please never let Jillian near a yoga mat! Yoga Guru Weekly

12:00 (13:00)

From Start to Finnish in association with Spindrift Theatre

THEM

A thought-provoking show that explores the impacts of toxic masculinity. Through interviews with male-identifying individuals and personal stories, four women from Iceland and Finland powerfully portray the pain, thrill, shame, and sorrow of not fitting in. Them challenges audiences to question their own preconceptions and consider how we can work towards a world where everyone has the right to be themselves.

12:10 (13:20)

Voloz Collective

THE MAN WHO THOUGHT

HE KNEW TOO MUCH

Last summer’s sold-out hit returns – bigger and better! Wes Anderson meets Hitchcock meets Spaghetti Western in this multi-awardwinning, fast-paced, raucous whodunnit.

Physical theatre at its most immaculate Scotsman

The theatrical equivalent of a well-crafted Netflix thriller WhatsOnStage

12:10 (13:10)

The Style Theatre

TENNESSEE, ROSE

A gripping new play starring Anne Kidd (Shetland). Delve into the childhood of siblings Tennessee and Rose Williams and the rooted guilt of one of America's greatest playwrights. Rose provided the inspiration for many of Williams' greatest characters, suffering betrayal at the hands of her family and society as a whole. The play starts when Rose, in her 80s, is in a medical facility. Tennessee has died, leaving provision for flowers to be sent to her every week, from beyond the grave but he is still very alive in her mind and on stage.

An inquisitive nurse wants to connect with Rose and tries, against medical advice to help her find peace, something she may later come to regret. What might Rose say, were she given a voice? To her brother, to her mother, to her nurse, to the world? Avoiding documentary, the play examines mental health, guilt, and the role of family tragedy in artistic creation...

12:15 (13:15)

Cheap Date

DIRTY WORDS

Cheap Date dig into the filth, fun and aftertaste of our everyday interactions. A crash landing of our dirtiest words through movement, music, film, speech and comedy.

The fusion of physical narrative, high quality short sharp film, punchy sound scape and story telling is underpinned with a duet that has a chaotic chemistry, captivating the audience into fits of laughter. This crossdisciplinary collaboration is Cornish Performance at its best Cultivator

12:20 (13:20)

Jamie-Lee Money SPIN CYCLES

Time to sweat out the sadness: Spin Cycles gives a cathartic look into why we search for something deeper when the inconceivable happens to us. After an earthshattering year, can she spin herself out of a slump? What is it about cult exercise studios that give us a feeling of purpose? She's not in a cult... yet? Is she? Spin Cycles is a one person show about spinning, grief and everything in between. But mostly spinning, and grief.

Directed by Larica Schnell.

14, 21

12:30 (13:30)

Sam Macgregor

TRULY MADLY BALDY

Truly, Madly, Baldy is a hilarious two-hander comedy based on the brutally honest stories of people who suffer from the hair loss condition Alopecia.

Told through a surreal and whacky lens, our characters Baldy 1 and Baldy 2 encounter doctors, dates and deluded opinions on beauty standards as they come to terms with their hair loss. Strap yourself in as things are about to get hairy!

12:30 (13:30)

Graeae Theatre Company, in association with Theatre Iolo and Soho Theatre

SELF-RAISING

Self-Raising is a true life story about growing up Deaf in a family with a secret. Artistic Director of Graeae, Jenny Sealey has spent a lifetime championing stories by Deaf and disabled artists. In SelfRaising she takes to the stage to tell her own... Blisteringly honest, always reflective, and often laughout-loud funny. ALL ALL ALL ALL

12:30 (13:30)

Charlie Merriman

WONDER DRUG: A COMEDY ABOUT CYSTIC FIBROSIS

Charlie has cystic fibrosis, a condition that causes a buildup of mucus. Lovely. But with a Wonder Drug coming soon, what can stop him now? Intravenous antibiotics meet 80s bangers in this VAULT Festival sell-out show!

Brilliantly unique Liam O'Dell

The kind of theatre that makes us grateful to be alive Prickle

16, 22

COURTYARD • UPSTAIRS

12:40 (14:10)

Mervyn Stutter

MERVYN STUTTER'S

PICK OF THE FRINGE

'It's like the Royal Variety Show of the Fringe.'

90 minutes of top talent in this legendary daily 'seven show' showcase. Comedy, theatre, music, cabaret, dance, circus and the indefinable; carefully researched by Merv's dedicated team. More info and line-ups: mervspotfringe.com

Vibrant, stimulating showcase of talent Scotsman

12:45 (13:45)

Prentice Productions with Kit Sinclair

30 AND OUT

'Mum, forgot to tell you, I’m a lesbian. Sorry it’s late - fifteen years late, but grab a rainbow flag and don some Docs... I’m 30 and coming out.'

On her 30th, Kit left her boyfriend and the closet. While her friends get mortgages, join her in a hilarious, sexy and painful portrayal of starting life again. Is it too late to be a lesbian? Does she need a cat and an undercut? It’s a coming out story... decades late to the party.

12:50 (13:50)

Yonder Window

VIOLET AND ME

A meditation on motherhood, feminism and fame, two-time Emmy Award winner Dorothy Lyman premiers her story at this year’s Fringe. As she searches for her orphaned mother’s heritage, she finds herself in the bargain. Discover her journey as she tells it from her Midwestern childhood, through motherhood, her marriages, and her successful Hollywood career. As the director of hit sitcom The Nanny and star of All my Children, Lyman’s journey is not one to miss.

12:50 (13:50)

HangDog

MUSIC

Dave is house band/receptionist at music streaming service Stripefy, but he wants more: he dreams of going full-time on reception. Join Dave as he accidentally swallows the Stripefy algorithm and becomes a global music mega-star. For a bit.

The sort of show that makes you excited about the Fringe again Broadway Baby

12:55 (13:55)

Scylla’s Bite

BREAK UP WITH YOUR BOYFRIEND

Cassie is a hot mess. Jo is playing it cool. When a sleepover erupts with a phone call break-up, they get ready to light it up and burn it down. Through raging reflections, cathartic cooking shows, and treadmill therapy, these best friends come face to face with the realities of their romantic relationships and the toxic truth behind them. An upbeat, queer and honest exploration of consent, self-love and healing in this romcom gone wrong.

13:00 (14:00)

Louis Rembges

CHATHAM HOUSE RULES

Host is going to work again. Front of house, mixologist, cloakroom guardian, finsta meme exec, human signpost, agent provocateur, waiter, TikTok darling — it’s giving range. Hospitality agency work is never as stunning as we want it to be but this shift is particularly deranged. High profile, secret cult, Brexit revenge, dark web, Birkin handbag prices, trial of David Cameron level deranged. To make matters worse, we’re not allowed to talk about it. So come watch a play about it instead.

13:00 (14:10) & 16:00 (17:10)

James Seabright in association with Northbank Speakers

IAIN DALE: ALL TALK

Award-winning LBC presenter returns with in-depth interviews.

5th 13:00 - Jeremy Corbyn MP & Len McCluskey / 6th 13:00Penny Mordaunt MP / 7th 13:00

- Wes Streeting MP / 7th 16:00

- Harriet Harman MP / 8th 13:00 -

Alex Salmond & David Davis MP /

8th 16:00 - Peter Hitchens & Polly

Toynbee / 11th 13:00 - Humza

Yousaf MSP / 13th 13:00 - Sir John

Curtice & Brian Taylor. More TBA at iaindalealltalk.com.

(£10) £13

THEATRE PLEASANCE COURTYARD • BUNKER ONE

SPOKEN WORD

PLEASANCE EICC • SIDLAW THEATRE

Compagnie le Fils du Grand Réseau, Something for the Weekend THE ICE HOLE: A CARDBOARD COMEDY

A great actor is recounting an epic journey he took from the fjords of Iceland to the dust of the Spanish desert.

Cursed by the mermaid he once accidentally caught, he is aided by one fellow performer, a language no-one quite understands and a thousand pieces of cardboard.

In the spirit of Monty Python with a twist of Laurel and Hardy, the theatrical acrobatics from these virtuoso performers will make you howl with laughter. Pure theatrical joy.

From the creators of Edinburgh 2019's smash-hit physical comedy, Fishbowl.

Molière Theatre Award Winner, 2022 - Best Show In a Public Theatre.

Best Theatre In Europe 2022 New York Times

Cartoonesque and delirious.... We laugh. We are seduced... and conquered

Le Monde

Incredibly funny and inventive

Le Parisien

Left me speechless with mirth... highly charged comic physical dexterity... Excellent Scottish Daily Mail (for Fishbowl)

An incredible piece of theatre and one I would urge you to go and see British Theatre Guide (for Fishbowl)

BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW

13:05 (14:05)

Fishing 4 Chips

BURNING DOWN THE HORSE

Burning Down The Horse is an immersive comedy set onboard the most iconic wooden animal in history - the Trojan Horse. Whilst being wheeled towards (almost) certain doom, you'll have to contend with heroic egos, class clashes, and sword supply issues. There's only one rule: Odysseus' word is law. Oh, and for the love of gods - no naked flames! Join your fellow soldiers and experience what really went on inside the belly of the beast.

13:35 (14:35)

Spring Lamb

COWBOYS AND LESBIANS

British schoolfriends Nina and Noa have never done drugs, they’ve never been kissed... and they’re absolutely never going to admit that they fancy each other. Join them as they escape their boring, sexless lives by inventing a fantasy world of lust, betrayal, and sexy cowboys, set in the gritty belly of the US’s Deep South. Or... is it the Mid West?

London Theatre Reviews

13:10 (14:10)

Joss Jones for EdCom Productions

BEST OF EDINBURGH SHOWCASE SHOW

Great value comedy showcase featuring the best and brightest of this year's Fringe comics, with hand-picked daily changing line-ups. In its 18th successful year in the Cabaret Bar, The Best of Edinburgh Showcase Show has been proud to include mega-stars in its previous line-ups including John Bishop, David O’Doherty, Adam Hills, Micky Flanagan, The Boy With Tape On His Face and Russell Howard. This is the best way to start the day for comedians and comedy fans. See EdComProductions.com for daily listings.

A perfect bite-sized flavour of the festival ThreeWeeks

Have a bite to eat and take a seat – you're in for a treat Broadway Baby

13:15 (14:15)

StammerMouth, Sherman Theatre, Pleasance

CHOO CHOO! (OR... HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT ****** **** *****? (COS I HAVE))

Nye and Duncan live in their dream house. They sing songs and play together all day with their BFFs Radio, Breadloaf and Mr and Mrs Chair. Everything's alright! But when Nye opens up about something that's been going on in his head, things start to go off the rails.

Funny and nonsensical, brave and poignant, this disability led performance is an exploration of obsessive compulsive disorder told by people who know a bit about it.

CHOO CHOO! (Or... Have You Ever Thought About ****** **** *****? (Cos I Have)) is a wild journey into a mind that refuses to play nicely.

ALL ALL ALL

(£13)

THEATRE

PLEASANCE DOME • JACKDOME

13:30 (14:30)

Compagnie du Kaïros / Something for the Weekend

DOUGH

A fast-paced darkly comic drama from internationally acclaimed Moliere award-winner, David Lescot. Exploring a lifetime through one person’s daily interactions with money, three actors portray over forty characters, examining the transactions we engage in to build a life.

'You can’t keep accumulating all the time, you see... You can’t always be gaining, earning, winning; you need to lose as well. We need loss.'

Written and directed by Lescot - an associate artist of the renowned Théâtre de la Ville in Paris - who makes his Edinburgh Fringe debut.

A swift, humorous and sometimes bittersweet tale Manhattan Digest

[A] mesmerising, nearly perfect production StageBuddy

13:30 (14:30)

Patrick Sandford

GROOMED

How can a truth be told? How can a secret be spoken? Three true stories of survival. A schoolboy is kept back by his teacher, a Japanese soldier won’t surrender and an accident prone young Belgian invents the saxophone. Fast, powerful, gripping storytelling with live saxophone music. 'One of the most moving pieces I have seen' (Sandi Toksvig). Winner of 3 Outstanding Theatre Awards, Brighton Fringe. Finalist, Best Male Performer, Off West End Awards. Written and performed by Patrick Sandford. Director Nancy Meckler. Composer Simon Slater. Ages 14+.

Astonishing... unmissable Guardian

Remarkable brave inquiring theatre Financial Times

13:30 (14:40)

The Thelmas and The Pleasance in association with Sarah Verghese Productions

SANTI & NAZ

Best friends Santi and Naz live in pre-partition India. One Sikh, one Muslim. But as the political situation worsens, the threat of their separation looms large. Award-winning company The Thelmas explore queer love, identity and loyalty, set against the backdrop of a country soon to be changed forever. Winner of the Pleasance Charlie Hartill Fund 2023.

Praise for Ladykiller (2018):

A smash hit Broadway Baby

Superb Scotsman

15, 19 ALL

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • PLEASANCE TWO

Returning to Edinburgh Fringe for the first time since sell out runs in 2018 & 2019. In Loyal Company is the incredible true story of missing WWII soldier Arthur Robinson, written and performed by his great-nephew David William Bryan.

May 1941. Hitler's bombs rain down on Liverpool. Local packer Arthur Robinson joins up, becoming a private in the 18th reconnaissance division.

Deployed to Singapore where his ship is destroyed by Japanese dive bombers on

arrival, Arthur is declared missing. This extraordinary true story of survival is a one-man tour-de-force war epic.

A masterpiece of war storytelling Broadway Baby

Touching and humbling British Theatre Guide

A truly stunning performance Fringe Guru

A must see show Southside Advertiser

A tour de force performance London Theatre

BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW

David William Bryan IN LOYAL COMPANY

13:45 (14:45)

Natasha Sutton Williams & PlayWell Productions

CLOWN SEX

Join Gary Strange in the London sewers as he encounters stories of bad sex, sad sex and clown sex. Visceral and 'brilliantly oddball' (Time Out), you will laugh, cry, and even gag. It’s funny, grotesque and surprisingly relatable.

Unique and mouthwatering North West End

Laugh-out-loud funny Broadway World

13:45 (14:45)

Matthew Radway

SUPER

On Hollywood Boulevard, a group of actors are posing as famous characters for photos with tourists. It’s 100°, Batman punched Robin in the face and the whole thing is about to be on TMZ. Captain Jack Sparrow has fainted and Catwoman is screaming. It’s all gone wrong. Inspired by real people and true stories, a darkly comic drama about ambition, love and overwhelming failure told by two not-very-super-heroes.

ThreeWeeks (for previous work)

13:50 (14:50)

Sibearita Productions, Theatre Royal Plymouth, Pleasance

BUFF

Fresh from its award-nominated run at VAULT Festival, Buff arrives at Edinburgh! A 32 year old gay primary school teacher navigates the cruel online dating world as a plussized man, alongside his rising feelings towards his new buff flatmate. Funny yet timely, Buff is a heart-warming tale of the journey to self-acceptance.

Directed by Scott Le Crass (Rose, West End), written by Ben Fensome. In association with Theatre Royal Plymouth, Pleasance, and Sibearita Productions.

Something very special indeed LondonTheatre1

Sensitive yet hilarious All That Dazzles 20

13:45 (14:45)

GOYA Theatre Company

FOUR FELONS AND A FUNERAL

A brand-new musical following four dysfunctional friends on a roadtrip to scatter their mate’s ashes. Meet the new five stages of grief: screaming, shouting, fighting, f*cking and fleeing from justice.

Sam Woof, the writer and composer, is one to watch Musical Theatre Review (for previous work)

14:00 (15:00)

Izzy Tennyson and Etch

THE GREAT RUCKUS

Two sisters have to navigate their way through their mother’s funeral and quickly find the warm embrace of their family turns into a seething snake-pit of selfish and self-absorbed relatives. Jo and Ida dutifully march to Death’s drumbeat, only to tumble and fall as their delicate relationship cracks under the pressure.

Izzy Tennyson, writer of awardwinning Brute and critically acclaimed Grotty, returns with Etch, with this wickedly dark play about people behaving badly.

14:00 (15:00)

Bric à Brac Theatre, Grace Dickson Productions and Pleasance

GLASS CEILING BENEATH THE STARS

NASA, 1992. Hurricanes in Hawaii, riots in LA, the longest running game of tennis at the US Open and NASA launches the Endeavour STS-47. Onboard are two women set to change history. Mae Jemison, the first African-American woman to go to space, and Jan Davis, the first woman to go to space with her husband. Back on Earth everyone had one question: did the couple have sex in space?

Five performers and three cameras investigate sexism at NASA, racial politics in the US and our fascination with the sex lives of others.

Witty and inventive Stage (for Ash)

ALL 7, 14, 21

14:00 (15:00)

Temper Theatre

HOME

The vivid colours of East Anglian folklore weave their way into the grey city life of Eddie, a young man desperately out of his depth. Temper return with a heartwarming story of memory, imagination and the joys of parenthood.

Blazingly sincere Guardian (for Terra Incognita)

Vehement but cogently delivered Herald (for Terra Incognita)

Voice Magazine (for Tribe)

14:05 (15:05)

Callum Hughes and Fake Escape

THIRST

Join actor-musician Callum Patrick Hughes as he rediscovers himself without looking through the bottom of a bottle. Featuring original songs, Thirst is a funny yet moving love letter to sobriety and a celebration of all things alcoholic.

One the best storytellers I’ve seen AskTheUshers

Thirst is an eye-opening, raw and touching love letter TheatricEllie

14:05 (15:05)

Platform Presents

NUCLEAR CHILDREN

Winner of the 2021 Platform Presents Playwright’s Prize, Nuclear Children, written by Ezra England, directed by Seán Linnen, is a dark comedy about mental health, a submarine accident and a melon.

Following her father’s death, Isla runs away to university in the hope of staying sane.

A stunningly gifted writer who chimed straight into my heart with such a startling debut

Jenna Coleman

14:10 (15:10)

Pink Sky Theatre Company

RAPTURE

Rosy, Tommy and Kit are cluedup, kinky and queer as f*ck - until safe spaces fracture and identities start to shift. As events in the present bring past traumas to the surface, the bonds within this chosen family must shudder and transform if they are to survive.

Rapture is an ode to London, the queer experience, and chosen family Lost in Theatreland

COURTYARD • FORTH

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • BUNKER THREE

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • BESIDE

14:15 (15:15)

Elle Dillon-Reams

HONEYBEE

HoneyBEE is a festival-driven show with a banging soundtrack. We follow Kate, as she flits and stumbles through her twenties fuelled on highs and hedonism. With a heady mix of music, stand-up and spoken word, Kate’s story represents a generation’s search for purpose and the need to dance in the face of adversity. It’s Fleabag meets Kae Tempest, with a dash of dirty bass. Best Newcomer Award, Scotsman.

Scotsman

14:20 (15:20)

RJG Productions, Bristol Old Vic, Pleasance

BITTER LEMONS

In the pressurised worlds of football and finance, two women carve their own path.

After the loss of her dad, a goalkeeper prepares for the league final, while an ambitious banker must battle her fears of being tokenised to secure a promotion. But as their pitches get closer, worlds collide as life shifts unexpectedly and in parallel. How do you face your biggest challenge yet?

Winner of a Pleasance Edinburgh National Partnership Award and supported by Bristol Old Vic, Lucy Hayes' Bitter Lemons is an explosive debut play tackling the pressures on women’s bodies and the power society holds over them.

Perfect

Telegraph (for previous work)

14:25 (15:25)

Voloz Collective

THE LIFE SPORADIC OF JESS WILDGOOSE

Tarantino meets Pixar in this electrifying cinematic thriller from the creators of the smashhit comedy The Man Who. With virtuosic acrobatics and live music, this madcap tragicomic rollercoaster unnerves and astounds as we follow Jess on a brutal and moving quest for revenge.

Physical theatre at its most immaculate Scotsman (for The Man Who)

14:15 (15:15)

Elle Dillon-Reams

MEAT

MEAT is an electrifying roar of fury, a rallying cry of protest and unifying celebration of strength packed with heroism and heart.

Written by multi-award winner Elle Dillon-Reams (Best Newcomer, Scotsman), MEAT is a theatrical hybrid of poetry, clowning, cabaret and dance feat original music.

Supported by Arts Council England.

One of the most dazzling performances of the month. Dillon-Reams is a star

Scotsman

14:30 (15:30)

Soho Theatre in association with Bhuchar Boulevard

SUDHA BHUCHAR:

EVENING CONVERSATIONS

Middle-class, middle-aged, multicultural mother of millennial sons, Sudha invites her Indo/ Pakistani, fiercely British boys to 'crack open a cold one' and share their views on life. Will they see their background as a place of strength or an unwelcome inheritance?

'You’re the one with the identity crisis mum, not us!'

COURTYARD • BENEATH

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • PLEASANCE ABOVE

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • CABARET BAR

14:30 (15:30)

Off The Kerb Productions

GRAHAM IN THE GREEN

Ivo Graham dips a greedy toe into the theatre/therapy section, poring over the usuals (relationships, responsibilities, regrets) without any promise of logic or laughter.

It takes a meaty whack of self-absorption for a comedian to book an extra slot at the Fringe just to gaze further at his navel without punchlines: please only do come if you can forgive such indulgence (and you've already investigated his main show, Organised Fun).

Questions about why Graham is so drawn to the past remain unanswered

The i

This device isn't a spaceship, it's a time machine

Dick Whitman

14:30 (16:15)

Mervyn Stutter

MERVYN'S 30TH YEAR CHARITY GALA

Join Merv and a host of top talent in a huge Charity Variety Gala to celebrate the 30th year of the legendary Mervyn Stutter’s Pick of the Fringe showcase.

Proceeds to Imibala Trust charity in Cape Town.

MervsPotFringe.com

14:35 (15:35)

Alice Malseed & Emily Foran, Lyric Belfast, Pleasance, Thistle and Rose Arts

THE HALF MOON

Four women. Four generations. One Belfast family fighting for freedom and future.

In a ferociously optimistic tale of home and hope, we meet Ethel, Jeanette, Sarah and Pam, each trapped by the narrow streets and looming mountain of Tiger’s Bay. None of them had the chance to leave until now. Pam may have broken the cycle and followed her dream of a life elsewhere but can she ever truly escape her ancestry? There are stories of battle, passion and hope still demanding to be told.

Nominated for Best Set and Audience Choice Award, Irish Times Theatre Awards 2022.

Storytelling mastery... Stories of uncompromising women

Alan in Belfast Blog 18

THEATRE

PLEASANCE DOME • JACKDOME

Degrees of Error

MURDER, SHE DIDN'T WRITE

Don your deerstalker, grab your magnifying glass and get your 'finger of suspicion' at the ready because Fringe favourites, Degrees of Error, are bringing back their multiple sell-out show for your sleuthing pleasure.

They'll create a classic murder mystery on-the-spot every afternoon in this ingenious and original improvised comedy production. You, the audience, become the author as the cast act out your very own Agatha Christie-inspired masterpiece live on stage. Each show, this extraordinarily talented company use audience suggestions to create a unique, original and extremely comical improvised murder mystery just for you. All you have to do... is solve it.

Ms Gold poisoned at a synchronised swimming gala? Dr Blue exploded by cannon during a hot air balloon race? Professor Violet crushed to death at a Love Island recoupling? You decide!

But will you guess whodunnit before the killer is revealed?

Degrees of Error are a theatre company, focused on producing original comedic and dramatic improvised works. Founded in 2010 they are resident troupe at The Bristol Improv Theatre, the first theatre in the UK dedicated to the art of improv.

Hilarious... The show is a riot Scottish Daily Mail

Absolutely fantastic... Incredibly clever... Laugh out loud funny... A truly entertaining and hilarious take on the murder mystery and absolutely not one to miss Voice Mag

An improvisation style mystery play that totally hits the spot! Theatre Bubble

Outstanding performances delivered by a seriously talented cast! ThreeWeeks

An incredibly impressive feat. A funny and outrageous show Fringe Explosion

14:50 (15:50)

DEM Productions BLOWHOLE

He’s gay, aspiring to be Billie Piper circa 1999, and perfecting the bum-hole selfie in the work toilets. Rock bottom’s never been so fabulous. 'An outrageously raw, brazenly queer new comedy depicting life and love in your twenties.'

Theatre does not come any better than this Boyz Magazine

Side-splittingly hilarious Theatre And Other Things

14:55 (15:55)

Peyvand Sadeghian

DUAL دوگانه

One woman. Two passports, and two names: Peyvand is British, Parisa is Iranian. A darkly comic, award-winning show about passports and protests.

Top Picks: Lyn Gardner (Stagedoor) and Natasha Tripney (Stage).

Cheekily irreverent and sharply satirical Stagedoor I have the feeling that I’m about to be, in some form or another, revolutionised A Younger Theatre A thrilling performer To Do List (for Rich Kids: A History of Shopping Malls in Tehran) ALL

THEATRE

PLEASANCE DOME • ACEDOME

THEATRE

PLEASANCE DOME • 10DOME

14:55 (15:55)

Luke Wright

LUKE WRIGHT'S SILVER JUBILEE

Wright tries to celebrate but ends up taking a deep dive into himself and the England that raised him. New poems on class, love and adoption.

Visceral, poignant and riotously funny Scotsman

15:00 (16:00)

Dominique Salerno

DOMINIQUE

SALERNO:

THE BOX SHOW

One woman. 25 characters. All inside a tiny box. Think SNL performed by one person: in a cupboard! Dominique creates hysterical, entirely new realities each time the doors swing open. Purely delicious... a paragon of the Fringe form New York Times Intensely creative Time Out New York

Salerno is one of our most inventive, entertaining, and accomplished writers and performers New York Theatre Guide

15:00 (16:00)

Glenna Morrison, Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Pleasance GUFFY

An allegorical tale of the state of our nation. Guffy, the present. Alba, the past. Bairn, the future. All co-existing in the bottom end of a parochial Scottish town. Guffy plans a night on the tiles of footie lads and karaoke while reeling in the aftermath of her maelstrom. Young talent Georgia Blue Ireland plays Guffy, while Alba is played by the superb Ceit Kearney. This guttural play is fearless on race, sex, addiction, alzheimers, death. Guffy may offend, but she doesn’t care.

Realism to the max. It has deep humour, terrible pain and wrenching passion Ewan Morrison, Author Scots blood runs so deep throughout the whole play. I could feel it, so, so strong Susannah Norbury, Author Searingly relevant Colin McReddie, Actor

15:00 (16:10)

Apphia Campbell presented by James Seabright

BLACK IS THE COLOR OF MY VOICE

Fringe First and Spirit of the Fringe Award winner Apphia Campbell's stunning solo show inspired by the life of Nina Simone. Returning to celebrate its 10th birthday for five performances only.

Captivates throughout Skinny

Nothing short of sensational Broadway Baby

15:00 (16:00)

Wound Up Theatre

TONES: A HIP-HOP OPERA

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • UPSTAIRS

What happens if you're not black enough for the ends, but too black for the rest of the world? Meet Jerome, aka The Professor, who's in a battle with his identity, and on a journey through the depths of Black-British culture, class, and belonging.

Tones combines gritty underground sounds of Grime, Hip-Hop and Drill and the melodrama of Opera, to present a piece of gig theatre like no other.

THEATRE

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • BUNKER TWO

15:00 (16:00)

Young Pleasance SHOWGIRLS &

SPIES

The thrilling true story of Florence Waren, an intrepid Jewish resistance fighter and dazzling showgirl leading a perilous double-life in WW2. Working fearlessly for the French resistance by day, Florence takes to the stage alongside icons Edith Piaf and Josephine Baker, every night at the infamous Bal Tabarin. Written by Florence’s relative, the 'breathtakingly skilful ensemble' (BBC Scotland) jump cut between worlds bursting with bravery, family and feather boas. With their trademark high production values, the 'superbly multi-talented' (Scotsman) Young Pleasance present their modern take on the glitz, glamour and glare of wartime Paris.

Young Pleasance is extraordinary British Theatre Guide

15:10 (16:10)

Pacey's Creek

CHRISKIRKPATRICKMAS: A BOY BAND CHRISTMAS MUSICAL

A Christmas Carol meets It’s A Wonderful Life meets... *NSYNC. It's Christmas Eve 2009 and Chris Kirkpatrick from *NSYNC has until midnight to make a wish that could change his life forever. Featuring 12 original songs and plenty of 90s nostalgia!

Music direction by Taylor J. Williams (Hamilton); sound design by Josh Millican (Six).

Triumphant Stage Scene LA

15:10 (16:10)

Amsterdam Artist Management

SLÄPSTICK: SCHËRZO

Spirit of the Fringe Award winner Släpstick is back. Bringing their unique brand of mischief to Schërzo, a clown-esque concerto for the ages where a seemingly highbrow classical concert glissandos into a bacchanal of comical mishaps and absurdity.

Neither floppy-wigged composers nor their magnum opus are safe from this Släpstick buffoonery. It’s Chaplin meets Tchaikovsky, Buster versus Bernstein, and Groucho Marx does Mozart, all rolled up into one raucous show! Internationally renowned Släpstick presents Schërzo, a performance of classical music as you’ve never experienced it before. Language no problem.

Fest

£15 (£13.50) £16 (£14.50)

15:10 (16:10)

Tom Moran

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • PLEASANCE BELOW

TOM MORAN IS A BIG FAT FILTHY DISGUSTING LIAR

What's the worst lie you've told? And how far would you go to keep it a secret? Join this charismatic people-pleaser in this hilariously honest show as he seeks to confess his secrets and unf*ck his future. Winner of Fishamble New Writing Award at Dublin Fringe 2022.

The most searingly honest and moving show of the year Arts Review

15:15 (16:15)

Cosmic Collective, York Theatre Royal, Pleasance EDMONDS

Deal or No Deal meets Doctor Faustus. 22 red boxes. One soul.

Edmonds makes a Deal (or No Deal) with the Devil. How far will they go for fame, fortune, and free TV licensing? An audience member is invited to play the game, as the Cosmos decides the fate of the show. The Banker has now come to claim what is owed to them.

'It is only a soul... what does it matter when the very life blood of mid-to-late afternoon light entertainment is hanging in the balance.'

15:20 (16:20)

Mick Perrin Worldwide

BRONWYN SWEENEY: OFF-BRAND

In her debut hour, Funny Women finalist Bronwyn teaches audiences how to build their own personal brand in four easy steps. British born but American presenting, Bronwyn draws on her own confusing life and a career making ads no one wanted to watch to explore how to stand out in the crowded marketplace of life. Expect a set packed with natural charisma and full of gags... the finished package Chortle

15:20 (16:20)

Nothing More to Say 52 MONOLOGUES FOR YOUNG TRANSSEXUALS

'What’s the worst thing that’s ever made you feel like a woman?'

Let’s go, girls. Nothing More to Say’s award-nominated debut is an eloquent and audacious hour of verbatim and cabaret theatre. Strap in for sleepover-style honesty on sex, love and trans womanhood.

Broadway World Theatre at its most alive Varsity

15:30 (16:30)

Lilly Burton

ALL ABOARD! AT TERMINATION STATION

The Edinburgh Fringe debut from performer, writer, and creative activist Lilly Burton. A comedy-cabaret about Abortion... obvs! This is Lilly’s story, a bracing, booming and brash autobiographical tale. This is a cry-to-arms that will have you slamming down your pints in support of reproductive rights!

Fearlessly funny and painfully poignant Shami Chakrabarti

15:30 (16:30)

Maria Rud and The Filthy Tongues

THEATRE

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • THE GRAND

REVELATIONS OF RAB MCVIE

Join everyman Rab McVie as he travels through richly-textured dreamscapes, pursuing light in darkness, hope in a torn world. Unnmissable collision of live painting, live music and theatre with Maria Rud, The Filthy Tongues and Tam Dean Burn. Thrilling, vital, batsh*t crazy!

Herald

15:30 (16:30)

Mick Perrin Worldwide

PAUL MERTON'S IMPRO CHUMS

Paul Merton and his highly acclaimed Impro Chums are back at the Edinburgh Fringe this year for their twentieth anniversary at the festival.

They take audience suggestions and create cascades of fantastic tumbling laughter. The collective improvisational experience embodied in the Chums is enough to stun an elephant. They flex their improvisational muscles to delight and entertain audiences in this country and abroad, and now they return to Edinburgh, their second home.

The Impro Chums are Paul Merton, Suki Webster, Richard Vranch, Kirsty Newton and Mike McShane.

Every year they bring the house down... a testimony to their brilliance and consistency... you could see this every night and never tire of it Mirror

These are masters of their craft and there wasn't a dull moment. Terrific fun Manchester Evening News

A masterful demonstration of improvised comedy Daily Telegraph

I laughed a lot, at those uncomplicatedly glorious moments Guardian

A masterclass in improv Wee Review

15:35 (16:45)

Silent Faces in association with The Pleasance

GODOT IS A WOMAN

The 'unmissable' (Reviews Hub) 2022 Fringe hit returns!

Since Beckett wrote Waiting for Godot, he and his estate have notoriously challenged - often legally - non-male companies that wish to perform it. A whip-smart interrogation of gender, authorial copyright and the cultural significance of Madonna's 1989 album Like a Prayer, Silent Faces return with their trademark style of playful, political, physical theatre.

Cheeky and geeky Guardian

Extremely clever Scotsman

Richly comic Stage

15:35 (16:35)

Sophie Craig / The REcreate Agency

I LOVE YOU, NOW WHAT?

Can love survive when someone dies?

'No bastard ever warned me that your love life goes down the shitter when someone dies.'

This brilliantly funny, heartwarming and raw debut play by actor and comedian Sophie Craig, examines a beautifully ugly story about grief and love's place within it.

15:45 (16:45)

GOYA Theatre Company

ACTUALLY, LOVE

Romcoms and pop songs collide in a musical rollercoaster charting the highs and lows of identity politics, romantic clichés and open mic nights. Alex is singing - Stevie is watching. The songs tell us their story.

Will they fall in love 'properly' - as seen in Richard Curtis’ 2003 megasmash Love Actually? Or is that just for straight people?

A must-see at this year’s Fringe EdFringe Review (for previous work)

15:40 (16:55)

Ad Infinitum

BEAUTIFUL EVIL THINGS

Multi award-winning Ad Infinitum (Odyssey, Translunar Paradise, Ballad of the Burning Star) returns with an untold, breathtaking version of the Trojan War.

Enter Medusa. Monstrous gorgon? Snakes for hair? A turnto-stone glare? Perhaps. But she was there - as a bodiless head strapped to the shield of a goddess.

Her forever-open eyes saw it all, but Medusa’s petrifying gaze focused on three extraordinary women: the key to her ultimate hope.

Beautiful Evil Things is a new, high-energy, one-woman 'tour de force' (British Theatre Guide), a critically acclaimed show combining physical storytelling with cut-throat wit.

One of The Guardian's 'Best Theatre of 2022'.

Exhilarating Guardian

High-intensity Stage

Epic Morning Star

A powerhouse performance Fix Magazine

Physical storytelling at its zenith StageTalk Magazine 11, 15, 16, 19 11, 13, 15, 16, 19

15:40 (16:40)

Elisabeth Gunawan, Created a Monster and The Pleasance

UNFORGETTABLE GIRL

Money can't buy love, but £19.99/month can get you a mailorder bride delivered directly from the wasteland of Asian stereotypes. But what lies beneath her shiny surface? How is she forced to transform, destroy and rebuild herself in order to survive? An irreverent, no-holds-barred, bouffonesque myth about the violence our culture inflicts on bodies of colour. Winner of the Pleasance Charlie Hartill Fund 2023, Best Show (Offies, 2021) and Best Performer in a Play (Stage Debut Awards, 2022).

A standout show... Elisabeth Gunawan captivates Stage

Beautiful Broadway Baby

15:45 (16:45)

November Theatre and The Pleasance

PITCH

A bold, goal-scoring exploration of the relationship between football and the queer community. Expect a hat-trick of true stories, dirty tactics and dancing! In the wake of the Qatar World Cup and in the midst of the 2023 Women’s Tournament, Pitch blends documentary storytelling and theatre, investigating what it means to watch, play and love the beautiful game.

November Theatre (one of The Stage’s Top Picks of the Fringe, 2022) imagine a future in which queer representation in football is more than just a debate over a rainbow armband. Winner of the Pleasance Charlie Hartill Fund 2023.

A stellar cast... a queer tale of complexity and captivation Broadway World 13, 21 10, 20

16:00 (17:10)

James Seabright in association with Northbank Speakers

IAIN DALE AND JACQUI SMITH'S FOR THE MANY LIVE

LBC legend and the former Home Secretary host the live version of their smash-hit podcast. Political analysis, unfiltered opinion and smut.

9th - Peter Tatchell

10th - Mark Drakeford MS

11th - Kate Forbes MSP

12th - Sir Ed Davey MP

13th - Ian Blackford MP

16:00 (17:00)

theFound, supported by TikTok

KNOCK, KNOCK

Knock, Knock will showcase TikTok’s biggest comedy stars as they bring their hilarious online content to the live stage. A mixture of stand-up and characters hosted by Coco Sarel and starring Henry Rowley, Steven McKell, Ayamé Ponder plus special guests. This is a feel-good hour of fun you don’t want to miss.

SPOKEN WORD

EICC • SIDLAW THEATRE

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • CABARET BAR

EDINBURGH NATIONAL

We work with theatres across the UK to identify and support exceptional artists and companies, local to them, to bring work to the Fringe.

Each of our partners is a leading national producing house, with a commitment to supporting and developing new artists. Together, we hope to make a substantial contribution to develop the next generation of leading theatre makers and companies across the country.

16:05 (17:05)

SkelpieLimmer,

Lyric Belfast, Pleasance, LET SCAREDY FAT

Scaredy’s working the late shift at the cinema. Tonight’s schedule? The horror movie sexual awakenings of yesteryear. Lost in steamy recollections of Jesse Walsh dancing, Carrie and Tommy at the prom and the sinful duo of Ryan Philippe and Freddie Prinze Jr., Scaredy should be in ecstasy but evil horror host Count Calories keeps cutting in on the fun. It’s finally time for Scaredy to face their fears and stop being such a big Scaredy Fat.

Come to the movies with Scaredy as they poke fun at fat and queer representation in the horror genre, asking what it means to love a genre that doesn’t love you back. We’re gonna need a bigger shirt...

Winner of the Les Enfants Terribles Award 2023 and the CQAF Theatre Bursary.

18

16:10 (17:10)

Adrian Bliss

ADRIAN BLISS: INSIDE EVERYONE

An atom travels to Earth on a quest for greatness, finding himself inside some of the most important people who have ever lived. Join Adrian Bliss on a wild ride through history and give your seven octillion atoms an experience they will never forget.

New Face Of Comedy 2022

Just For Laughs

16:15 (17:15)

Liz Guterbock

LIZ GUTERBOCK:

GERIATRIC MILLENNIAL

Dual national. Bisexual. Halfway to death? In her debut standup show, California native Liz Guterbock explores belonging and whether it’s possible to stay in love with life as we grow old(er).

Punchy, slick and accomplished... Liz Guterbock['s] zippy performance - including a solid English accent - is refreshing, and the gags breezily amusing. A club ready act, for sure Chortle

16:15 (17:15)

Strip Light Productions

FIONA ALLEN: ON THE RUN

Fiona has two Emmys and three kids, she loves them all equally, but the Emmys were there first... Star of groundbreaking sketch group Smack The Pony brings her debut hour to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe!

16:15 (17:15)

Play People Productions

TOM BRACE: A TRICK

DOWN MEMORY LANE

Have you ever wanted to relive a moment from your past? Join magician and mind-reader Tom Brace for a hilarious and unbelievable trip down memory lane that you simply won't forget!

Charmed, amazed and delighted in equal measure! James O'Brien, LBC

A great way to spend an hour at the Fringe! World Magic Review

CABARET AND VARIETY PLEASANCE DOME • 10DOME

Soundplay Theatre Productions

SOUND CLASH: DEATH IN THE ARENA

Levi Roots presents the world's first theatrical show to bring dancehall culture and clash competition onto a mainstream stage. It’s a play with music, but not as we know it... this time it’s Reggae, Ska and Afrobeats that set the tone.

Sound Clash - Death In The Arena retells an iconic love story set in a dystopian future; where music is everything, and two warring sound systems - The Eagles vs The Thunders, fight for power.

When young lovers Ashley and Kazzandra are torn apart by family politics and musical warfare, what follows are electric dance offs and lyrical battles in the Sound Clash Arena, as death, destruction, and treachery is spread

by opposing leaders using music and sound clashes, as a weapon for control of the people. Get ready to dance, as the competition begins... This show is played at max volume!

Sound Clash is directed by West End veteran Ray Shell, written by award winning novelist Alex Wheatle MBE, choreography by Jade Hackett (Hex, Sylvia, Get Up, Stand Up) and produced by Adrian Grant (Thriller Live).

Jamaican sound system culture plays one of the most important roles in the evolution of Reggae, Ska, Dancehall, Hip Hop, Grime, Jungle, Drum & Bass, Reggaeton and many more forms of music we enjoy today. I wanted to shine a light on this unsung phenomena by putting it on stage for the first time and bring it to a new audience in the theatres

Levi Roots

BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW

16:15 (17:15)

Stamptown Proudly Presents

ZACH ZUCKER: SPECTACULAR INDUSTRY SHOWCASE

WINNER: Comedian's Comedian Award, Chortle Awards (2020). The bad boy of clown returns with another dazzling display of comedic firepower!

Beautiful to look at it, beautiful to immerse in, Zach Zucker is a true showman Mumble

A master of his craft Evening Standard

16:30 (17:30)

Benji Waterstones

BENJI WATERSTONES: YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE MAD TO WORK HERE

A fly-on-the-padded-wall account of the mental health world from NHS psychiatrist and award-winning comedian Benji Waterstones. Soon to be a Penguin-published book. BBC New Comedy Award nominee. Directed by Jordan Brookes.

Perfect and hilarious Buzzfeed

Adeptly pulled off Arts Award

16:30 (17:40)

Linus Karp & Awkward Productions

DIANA: THE UNTOLD AND UNTRUE STORY

Join Diana in heaven as she shares the untold and untrue tale of her extraordinary life. Combining drag, multimedia, audience interaction, puppetry and a lot of queer joy - this unique celebration of the people's princess is as hilarious as it is tasteless.

Brought to you by the team behind How To Live A Jellicle Life: Life Lessons From The 2019 Hit Movie Musical 'Cats'.

The most unhinged piece of theatre in existence Broadway Baby

Hilarious, joyful and ridiculous to the point of sublime Deborah Frances-White

A queer extravaganza Pink News

16:25 (17:25)

Lee Martin for Gag Reflex

AARON SIMMONDS: BABY STEPS

Aaron attempts to do something he's never done before... stand-up comedy, standing up. Seen on The Russell Howard Hour, Guessable and The Stand Up Sketch Show.

Hilarious Neurodiverse Review

Superb storyteller Scotsman

Hysterically funny Voice

16:35 (17:35)

Country Mile Productions / Avalon Management

ANIA MAGLIANO: I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU'VE DONE THIS

This show is about the worst haircut of Ania Magliano's life. Ania's critically-acclaimed 2022 debut sold out its run in a week. Tour support for Marc Maron, Cat Cohen and Ed Gamble. Writer for Chicken Shop Date.

Will have you crying with laughter Guardian

16:35 (17:35)

Country Mile Productions

LORNA ROSE TREEN: SKIN

PIGEON

Character comedian Lorna Rose Treen invites you inside her mind for an hour of characters, comedy, content, content, content, costumes, and content. The greatest thing to come out of Redditch since the fishing tackle. The debut show from Chortle's Best Newcomer 2023 and Funny Women Awards' first ever double winner (2022).

I laughed so much I violently bit my tongue Independent

16:40 (17:50)

Say It Again, Sorry?

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING... EARNEST?

When a traditional production of Oscar Wilde’s classic play gets underway, everything seems to be going perfectly to plan... that is, until the lead actor fails to arrive on cue. You might think you know this chaotic story of love, mistaken identity and double-lives, but you have never seen it like this before. Filled with wicked Wildean wit and bursting with Bunburying, join us for a hilarious and unpredictable twist on the world’s favourite comedy classic.

Edinburgh Fringe 2021 sell out and winner of Best Comedy, Derek Awards 2021.

Check out this smash-hit comedy before it gets to the West End!

Delightfully interactive and uproariously funny

Skinny

A magical, once-in-a-lifetime ephemeral experience

Theatre Scotland

A masterclass in comedic theatre

North West End UK

Get this on the West End now, please! Lost In Theatreland

Guaranteed to bring a smile to the face of even the greatest of improv-phobic curmudgeons

Scotsman

16:35 (17:35)

Impatient Productions

LULU POPPLEWELL: ACTUALLY, ACTUALLY

Lulu Popplewell is a recovering drug and alcohol addict, failed Love Actually child actor, and now successful comedian. A sensational debut solo show about crack, sunburn, and a Christmas classic. Is love actually all around? Why is addiction more relatable than recovery? Which drug would Mr Bean be most likely to take?

A daft, rude and thoughtful hour of jokes, actually.

16:45 (17:45)

Darran Griffiths in association with PBJ Management

DARRAN GRIFFITHS: INCONCEIVABLE

This very personal show from two time British Comedian of the Year semi-finalist and BBC New Comedy Awards semifinalist comically and candidly details the journey of tackling infertility and IVF. In the pursuit of becoming a dad, a better husband and (maybe) a better person, he faces battles with social norms, stereotypes, health, and masculinity.

16:50 (17:50)

Berk's Nest in association with PBJ Management

EGG: ABSOLUTELY FINE

A fresh new show from two fresh young gals who, honestly, are absolutely fine. EGG are Anna Leong Brophy (Shadow & Bone, This Is Going to Hurt) and Emily Lloyd-Saini (Code 404, Catastrophe).

Their chemistry is potent Fest

They deserve a bigger platform if there’s any justice Chortle

16:50 (17:50)

Alchemation

HELLO KITTY MUST DIE

You may think Fiona Yu is just another Hello Kitty stereotype... but you’d be dead wrong.

From the Tony-winning producer of Six and The Play That Goes Wrong comes an outrageously irreverent world premiere musical mash-up of Asian feminism with a killer score.

Fiona Yu is a high achieving, but highly disillusioned ChineseAmerican woman. She is fed up with the stereotypes forced onto her by a white, patriarchal society – namely that she is the human embodiment of a certain speechless cartoon feline.

Based on the cult novel by Angela S. Choi, Hello Kitty Must Die is a ruthless combination of sex, violence, and stilettos.

16:50 (17:50)

Natalya Samee

SATURN RETURN

A Saturn Return is an astrological coming of age. For Natalya? It was the demise of her seven year relationship. Saturn forced her to learn life’s big lessons the hard way. She’s ready to talk - now that she can be funny about it. Join acclaimed performer Natalya Samee (Ars Nova, Brooklyn Comedy Collective) in her new comedy-turned-theatre one woman show exploring love, loss, and finding your life force among the cosmos.

17:00 (18:00)

Soho Theatre

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • BENEATH

FRANKIE THOMPSON & LIV ELLO: BODY SHOW

A deeply strange, confoundingly funny, dark duet of electric, eclectic, unspoken-word about the meeting of dysphoria, dysmorphia and dystopia.

Top 5 Comedy Shows 2022 Guardian (for Frankie Thompson's CAttS)

Top Fringe Shows 2022 Stage (for Liv Ello's SWARM)

DARK

NOON

A unique mind-blowing theatrical experience. This brutal reimagining of the history of America is told by seven South African actors. A stunning and explosive drama from awardwinning Danish director Tue Biering and South African co-director Nhlanhla Mahlangu. 35 million poor, hungry Europeans fled across the Atlantic. Native Americans, Chinese immigrants and African slaves in a race for land, gold, Hollywood's silver screen and

ultimately a home.

They say history is told by the victors; this story is told by the vanquished. Reumert Award, Special Prize winner –Denmark.

Brilliant. Dark Noon is an excellent example of what modern performing arts has to offer!

Ungt Teaterblod

A dynamic and explosive performance CPHCulture

The Fourth Wall Powerful Sceneblog

It forces the audience to think Politiken

BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW

Alchemation, Glynis Henderson Productions and The Pleasance present a Fix&Foxy production

17:00 (18:00)

Johnston Productions Ltd

THE NIGHT OF THE MUSICALS

The Night of The Musicals is bringing a spectacular evening of the biggest musical hits to Edinburgh. Following our sold-out shows and sensational reviews at The Other Palace, London, we are now showcasing this jaw-dropping show at Edinburgh Fringe for a limited run. With solos, duets and ensemble numbers from Wicked, West Side Story, Les Mis and many more of your favourites, we promise you are in for an electrifying night out.

17:00 (18:00)

Lubna Kerr

TICKBOX 2

Tickbox 2 is a semiautobiographical, one-woman, bilingual (Urdu) play. Combining theatre and storytelling, it shares the journey of a Pakistani family arriving in Glasgow and dealing with discrimination using food and humour.

A rich and glowing contribution to our society Scotsman

A gentle show with powerful messages woven into it All Edinburgh Theatre

17:20 (18:30)

Out Of The Forest Theatre

THE BRIEF LIFE & MYSTERIOUS DEATH OF BORIS III, KING OF BULGARIA

Bulgaria just told Hitler to f*ck off, saved nearly 50,000 Jewish lives... and lost a King.

Five star award-winning ensemble blend history and live folk tunes. Whether a jazz fan, a history buff or just someone who loves gripping real-life stories, this is a must see Kyril, Prince of Preslav (Boris III’s grandson)

16

17:20 (18:20)

Berk's Nest

17:20 (18:20)

Soho Theatre, John Mackay and United Agents

LUCY & FRIENDS

Lucy McCormick is back with her most ambitious medium-concept catastrophic show yet. Join Lucy as she unveils her ensemble cabaret tent spectacular... Unfortunately, she has no friends, no money, and no tent. Still, there’ll be pole dancing, variety acts, strip routines, and some quick reworking of social policy. In a despairing world, lonely Lucy creates community, connection, and conversation the only way she knows how.

17:30 (18:30)

MAX & IVAN:

LIFE, CHOICES

The Edinburgh Comedy Award nominees return with a show about fatherhood, friendship and the future. Creators of Radio 4’s Casebook of... and ITV2’s Deep Heat.

Times

Any Suggestions Improv ANY SUGGESTIONS, DOCTOR? THE IMPROVISED DOCTOR WHO PARODY

Go on an adventure through time and space with a live radiophonic workshop and hilarious improv cast!

Best Improv Show Nominee Leicester Comedy Festival 2023

One4Review

Scottish Field

Yllana / Something for the Weekend A COMEDY OF OPERAS

The multi award-winning international sell-out show arrives in Edinburgh!

Featuring the world’s favourite ariasincluding many that you didn’t realise you already knew! - five exceptional singers perform opera’s greatest hits mixed with rock, pop and their own signature style of physical comedy.

This is opera for everyone.

Highly original, sublimely talented, utterly hilarious.

Max Award, Best Musical Show (Spain)

Jose Estruch Award, Best Show (Spain)

An awesome 'opera masterclass'... their powerful voices are amazing Le Parisien

Impossible not to be seduced Paris Match

An extraordinary musical comedy Platea

Opera for all audiences... the perfect show

ABC

A show that will make you beam with joy. Is there anything better? Time Out (Madrid)

pleasance LONDON

Based in Islington, North London, our year round home has two amazing performance spaces for live comedy, theatre, drag and cabaret, showcasing and developing the best new work.

Join

show

rehearsals, parties and performances.

We dedicate this year's show to the late, great, founder of NewsRevue, Professor Michael Hodd who launched this multi award-winning, Guinness World Record-breaking institution, 43 years ago. Emma Taylor, its producer since 2001, says 'it is fitting that Mike's enduring legacy will make its debut in the iconic Pleasance Grand.'

Expect 100% brand new material, much of it written by the 'preposterously talented' cast and creative team. From King Charles to Keir Starmer, Prince Harry to Putin, Sunak to strikes and sleaze, no stone will be left unturned. NewsRevue provides 'license to dissent en masse.'

At a time when the cost of a show matters more than ever, it is reassuring to recommend something that delivers. Every. Single. Time Broadway Baby

Satirically brilliant Guardian

Makes the viewer grateful for freedom of speech Edinburgh Evening News

You won’t want it to end and will most likely laugh until you ache Broadway World

17:30 (18:30)

Avalon

LUKE KEMPNER IN GRITTY POLICE DRAMA: A ONE-MAN MUSICAL

Star of Spitting Image and Steph’s Packed Lunch, impressionist Luke Kempner brings his one man British police drama to Edinburgh. With 60 impressions all played by one man.

As seen (and heard) on The Last Leg (C4), The Stand-Up Sketch Show (ITV2), Love Island: Aftersun (ITV2) and The Now Show (BBCR4).

17:30 (18:30)

Ingenious Fools

WILLIAM THOMPSON: THE HAND YOU'RE DEALT

William Thompson (BBC New Comedy Awards Finalist 2021, as seen and heard on Dave & Channel 4, BBC Scotland) is a rising star from Belfast. Growing up disabled on a Northern Irish council estate, where people aren’t known to be sympathetic, William tries his best to make the most out of the hand he was dealt.

Mudblood Podcast co-host and regular guest on Tea With Me.

17:40 (18:40)

Stamptown Proudly Presents AMUSEMENTS BY IKECHUKWU UFOMADU

Winner: Drama Desk Award (2018). The Emmy-nominated actor and 'gentleman-scholar of alt-comedy' (Vulture, New York Magazine) makes his Edinburgh debut with a waggishly absurd exploration of such vital topics as 'The Alphabet' and 'Counting'.

You don't want to miss him before he becomes a household name Time

17:40 (18:40)

Stamptown and Rotten Science

Proudly Presents

DREW MICHAEL: DREW'S ADVENTURES

Nominee: Writer's Guild Award (2x). A former Saturday Night Live writer with two HBO comedy specials, Emmy-nominee Drew Michael makes his UK debut!

One of the best specials I've seen New York Times

Drew represents the past and future of stand-up comedy GQ

COMEDY

17:40 (18:40)

Blue Book Artist Management

17:40 (18:40)

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • CABARET BAR

Show And Tell in association with Sophie Chapman Talent

HAL CRUTTENDEN:

IT'S BEST YOU HEAR IT FROM ME

Last year's critically acclaimed show is back for a limited run. A year on after his wife left, there's still so much more to laugh about and resolve. Who got the house, the dogs, the car? What did the kids say? And what's the dating scene like in your 50s? From Live at the Apollo, Have I Got News For You and Would I Lie To You. A repair shop for broken hearts. Mirror

RACHEL PARRIS: WORK IN PROGRESS

The BAFTA-nominated comedian, The Mash Report (BBC2) star, Live at the Apollo (BBC1) star and viral sensation, presents a work-inprogress hour of her signature blend of stand-up and songs. This is classy, clever comedy –uproarious Scotsman

Venomously witty Evening Standard

Beguiling... Her songs really score... a gifted performer Times

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • CABARET BAR

17:50 (18:50)

Georgia House Productions

CRIZARDS: THIS MEANS

WAR

Crizards, the 'classic double act' (Guardian), are back with a wonky war epic directed by Edinburgh Comedy Award winner, Jordan Brookes. They say you are your own worst enemy... Well, not during wartime. As seen on BBC One and Dave. Guardian

A comedy triumph Reviews Hub

17:50 (18:50)

United Agents

KIRSTY MANN: SKELETONS

Kirsty (Funny Women Awards finalist) has a secret and this is her confession: she’s an undercover doctor. Please don’t tell anyone. A ridiculous true story from awardwinning writer, 'smart character comic' (Scotsman) and 'wo-mann of many talents' (Not The Front Row).

Excellent Metro

Phenomenal Entertainment Now Grabs the gig by the funny bits Scotsman

17:50 (18:50)

Show And Tell in association with Curtis Brown

FREYA PARKER: IT AIN'T

EASY BEING CHEEKY

Are you a little cheeky guy?

Interested in the lifestyle? Come and join Freya as she navigates the struggles of trying to remain cheeky when it's raining trauma. From 50% of sketch duo Lazy Susan comes a 100% debut hour of stand-up.

As seen in the BBC Three sketch show Lazy Susan. Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee. Outrageous and irreverent Guardian

18:00 (19:00)

Avalon

GLENN MOORE: WILL YOU STILL NEED ME, WILL YOU STILL FEED ME, GLENN I'M SIXTY MOORE

The Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Show nominee, Mock the Week and Absolute Radio star's smash-hit 2022 show returns for just fourteen shows!

Chortle

Mail on Sunday

18:00 (19:00)

Off The Kerb Productions

LINDSEY SANTORO: PINK TINGE

Alright bab!? Debut stand-up hour from one of the most exciting voices to come out of Brum in recent years. Since appearing as part of Best in Class in 2018, Lindsey has made numerous appearances across TV, radio and podcasts, including Comedy Central Live and Sarah Millican's Elephant in the Room (BBC Radio 4). 2021 finalist at the British Comedian of the Year.

A star in the making Chortle

18:00 (19:00)

COMEDY

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • BUNKER THREE

Impatient Productions / United Agents

MARY O'CONNELL: MONEY PRINCESS

Mary O'Connell is conflicted: she hates capitalism but she loves to shop. A hotly anticipated debut from a blunt, disturbed perspective of observationalannoyance and mischief. Money, pop culture, and trying to be a good person (if possible).

As seen on BBC Three, Comedy Central. Funny Women runner-up 2020. OnlyFans Creative Fund Winner 2023.

£7 £10 (£8.50) £11 (£9.50)

18:00 (19:00)

Impatient Productions

SHAPARAK KHORSANDI: SHAPCHAT!

In the blink of an eye, Shaparak has clocked up 50 years on this planet, a quarter-century as a comedian. What would the 25-year-old Shaparak think of this incarnation? Two dogs: very good. Tory friends: what has she become!? And why are there still so many things she doesn't know, or is just learning now: is it going to take another 50 years?

A fast-paced, celebratory hour from this much-loved Fringe institution and the author of forthcoming memoir, Scatterbrain. 12 nights only!

More passion, relevance and urgency than ever Chortle She has plenty to say, and says it with pointedness and potency Guardian

Has the crowd in the palm of her hand List

18:05 (19:05)

Chambers Touring Ltd

NABIL ABDULRASHID: THE PURPLE PILL

A show about trying to be a good person while staying a badman. Join the star of Live at the Apollo for this 'unapologetically funny' (Telegraph) exploration of empathy, morality and political contradiction. As seen on Live at the Apollo, Have I Got News for You, The Big Narstie Show, 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown and Unapologetic.

Evening Standard

18:20 (19:20)

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • BENEATH

Show And Tell in association with Curtis Brown

JANINE HAROUNI: MAN'OUSHE

Janine thought she knew her family. Then she took a DNA test and things got messy. The Edinburgh Best Newcomer nominee and star of her Amazon Prime stand-up special explores her Arab roots, pregnancy, and what happens when your mail order DNA test doesn't go to plan.

Ready for her Netflix special Times

18:10 (19:10)

Impatient Productions / United Agents

MAMOUN ELAGAB: WHY I LOVE WHITE PEOPLE

Highly anticipated debut from rising star Mamoun Elagab. Born to academics, a dark turn put his life into new perspective. This is not champagne socialism - this is the voice of the people.

Finalist: BBC New Comedy Award, Leicester Square Comedian of the Year, Chortle Comedy Award. His time has come.

A mischievous way of tweaking liberal guilt Chortle

18:30 (19:45)

Fabulous Musicals

BURNS THE MUSICAL

'You have to look back to see the way forward.'

With toe-tapping melodies, spectacular harmonies and soulful ballads, Burns the Musical introduces Robert Burns to the pop generation. Leaving Robert anchored in the 18th century the show examines his subsequent fame through a 20th century lens. Written and directed by Tish Tindall.

COMEDY

MUSICALS AND OPERA PLEASANCE AT EICC • LOMOND THEATRE

18:30 (19:30)

The Cambridge Footlights THE CAMBRIDGE FOOTLIGHTS INTERNATIONAL TOUR SHOW

'The most renowned sketch troupe of them all' (Independent) embarks on another exceptional world tour. Join the Footlights for an hour of sketch comedy from the finest Cambridge comedians!

Creative, funny and full of new ideas EdFringe Review (for Footlights Tour, 2022)

18:30 (19:30)

Off The Kerb Productions

IVO GRAHAM: ORGANISED FUN

After dismantling a barge (Taskmaster), doxxing himself in the Doubletree (Off Menu), and blanking on the 1992 Ipswich Town crest (University Challenge), Ivo ropes his audience into more chaos against the clock. Expect quizzes, tangents and fluster. Best Show/Joke nominee 2019.

BBBB

Motormouthed finesse Times I could watch him natter all day Telegraph

18:30 (19:30)

Stroud & Notes and The Pleasance

PUBLIC - THE MUSICAL

Usually avoid public bathrooms? Here’s one you won’t want to miss! This award-winning new musical follows four unlikely strangers who find themselves trapped together in a genderneutral public toilet. With an hour to kill until maintenance arrives, the group navigates unexpected challenges, pungent opinions and some seriously sticky conversations. Created by queer-led theatre collective Stroud & Notes, Public –The Musical explores stories of identity, connection and compassion, alongside an electrifying pop/rock score. This will be a trip to the bathroom you'll never forget! Winner of the Pleasance Charlie Hartill Fund 2023 and VAULT Origins Award.

Outstanding... wholly original All That Dazzles 17

18:30 (19:30)

Friends at the Poolyard HOT AS HELL

Meet Becky, whose best (and only) friend just happens to be a demon from a Ouija board. It’s the night of her first-ever high school party, and she can’t navigate the social jungle alone... so she breaks the golden rule and invites the spirit to join her.

Written by Johnna Dias-Watson (known for her work as an actress in Wednesday), this play is a dark comedy about loneliness, horror, and finding out who you truly are.

Instagram: @FriendsAtThePoolyard

18:30 (19:30)

Friends at the Poolyard TEACHER'S PET

The somewhat relatable yet painfully uncomfortable story of young love. High school senior, Jane takes us on a journey through the technicolor musical landscape of her sexy and forbidden relationship with chemistry teacher, John Mccormack. You will laugh, cry, sing, maybe even dance! Come along, don't be shy!

MUSICALS AND OPERA

18:30 (19:45), 20:45 (22:00), 15:30 (16:45) & 17:45 (19:00)

King's Head and In Your Face presented by James Seabright

TRAINSPOTTING LIVE

Immersive adaptation of Irvine Welsh's classic, staged in celebration of the book's 30th anniversary and the show's 10th. Six sell-out Fringe seasons, so please book early! Choose life. A big fat hit! NME

Better than either the book or film in my opinion Irvine Welsh

75 of the most intense, funny and moving minutes of theatre I have ever experienced BoxDust

18:40 (19:40)

Avalon

CHLOE PETTS: IF YOU CAN'T SAY ANYTHING NICE

Fresh from her smash hit sellout debut, rising star Chloe Petts returns with her follow-up hour. Praised for her polite and well-mannered way of handling hot topics like gender and toxic masculinity in the last show, this year she’s returning with a newer, ruder approach to the big issues. Expect routines on weddings, men who like Millwall and calling you all a bunch of virgins.

18:40 (19:40)

Soho Theatre

18:50 (19:50)

Avalon / Strip Light Productions

SAPAN VERMA:

SHAME ON ME

Catch India's stand-up star Sapan Verma live for the first time at the Edinburgh Fringe.

A veteran of shows across the globe, Sapan’s killer observations and hilarious storytelling have seen him open for Coldplay and Jay-Z, headline the first ever Indian comedy showcase at Melbourne International Comedy Festival, and train celebrities to perform comedy on his show One Mic Stand (Amazon Prime).

JONNY PELHAM: OPTIMISM OVER DESPAIR

Jonny told the nation his biggest secret. He's pretty sure it was a mistake. As seen on Live at the Apollo and Mock the Week.

18:55 (19:55)

Alexandra Haddow in association with PBJ Management

ALEXANDRA HADDOW: NOT MY FINEST HOUR

Have you ever done anything wrong? Alex has. Relationships, sex, feminism, and even dancing. The only thing she’s ever got right was writing a show about it.

Best New Show nominee (Leicester Comedy Festival Awards 2023), tour support for Frankie Boyle and Eshaan Akbar. One of the most exciting new acts on the circuit Frankie Boyle

19:00 (20:00)

Off The Kerb Productions

ANDY PARSONS: BAFFLINGLY OPTIMISTIC

Having done 17 full-run Edinburgh shows, Andy hasn't done one for 17 years. He thought it was time he went back. But he's only doing the last two weeks as he's now got parental responsibilities. And he might get homesick. As seen on Netflix, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, Live at the Apollo and Mock the Week.

Hysterical Mirror

Very funny Times

Punchline king Guardian

COURTYARD • BUNKER TWO

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • CABARET BAR

19:00 (20:00)

Chortle in association with Gag Reflex

FAST FRINGE

So many comedians, so little time! In this unmissable Fringe institution, 12 top comedy and variety acts handpicked by leading comedy website Chortle, perform ridiculously short sets in one furiously fast-paced showcase. A gloriously entertaining festival smörgåsbord!

19:00 (20:00)

Off The Kerb Productions

MARCUS

BRIGSTOCKE:

CHEESE AND WHINE

There are no problems that cannot be improved by eating cheese. Fact. Award-winning comedian and International Cheese Judge Marcus Brigstocke guides you through the subtle art of pairing the best cheeses with a fine whine of your choosing.

Charming, hilarious and utterly refreshing. Don't miss this incredible show Sunday Mirror

Sharpest one-liner merchant Sunday Times

19:00 (20:00)

Berk's Nest in association with United Agents

KIERAN HODGSON: BIG IN SCOTLAND

The three time Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee commutes from his new home of Glasgow every day for a month. He's that guy from the BBC's Two Doors Down (he's Gordon), the Bad TV Impressions viral videos, and three Channel 4 specials.

A delight to watch... every line is wired for laughter Guardian

Structure and delivery that puts most other shows to shame Telegraph

Ravishingly entertaining, full of insight and plenty of laughs Times

19:00 (20:00)

Impatient Productions

PETE HEAT: HUGE

Sharp, charmingly surreal and joyously unhinged, this hilarious modern magic show will break your brain into cute little pieces.

Would've given Jesus a run for his money Alex Horne

What the f*ck just happened?

ThreeWeeks

Excellent jokes and superb wizardry; a thrilling ride. Feels like something secret and very special indeed Wee Review

19:00 (20:00)

Maybe You Like It

PLEADING STUPIDITY

The hilarious and unbelievable true story of two bumbling Aussie boys' calamitous bank robbery, and the stories left behind in their wake.

A rollercoaster ride packed with ridiculous situations and hilarious characters. A total hoot View from the Outside

So much f*cking fun. Delightfully original. Simply a must-see Binge Fringe (for Redacted Arachnid)

£8 £13.50 (£11.50) £15 (£13)

THEATRE

PLEASANCE DOME • ACEDOME

19:05 (20:05)

Off The Kerb Productions

DANIEL FOXX: VILLAIN

People's princess and TikTok starlet Daniel Foxx delivers his stand-up hour debut with a show about childhood, Tilda Swinton and bullying (but in a chic way). With his trademark wit and grandmother's pearls, he's taking us back to the 2000s, when the Special K diet was all the rage and the only queer representation was Jafar. As seen on BBC One, BBC Three, Comedy Central UK and on Instagram and TikTok (The Supervillain's Gay Assistant).

Fabulous Nigella Lawson

19:10 (20:10)

Siân Docksey

SIÂN DOCKSEY - POLE YOURSELF TOGETHER!

Pole dancing comedian Siân Docksey (as seen on BBC 3, 'Joy and bewilderment in equal measure' Skinny) cheerfully ignores climate disaster, another recession and the steady creep of fascism to see if hanging off a stick can make you stop thinking about death.

Co-created with Jake Wood. Directed by Alexander Bennett. Unalloyed joy and full of impish verve Chortle

COMEDY

19:15 (20:15)

Georgia House Productions

MATTY HUTSON: DON'T HOLD BACK

Leicester Square New Comedian and Musical Comedy Awards finalist, musical comedian Matty Hutson bares his sensitive soul in this highly anticipated debut hour, accompanied by as many instruments as he can fit into a suitcase. As heard on BBC Radio 4's The Now Show.

I need to hear a whole album of this genius Shaun Keaveny Emotional but hilarious British Comedy Guide

19:10 (20:10)

Strip Light Productions / Avalon Management

JOSH WELLER: AGE AGAINST THE MACHINE

A stand-up comedy show about trying to 'make it in the music industry'. And other jokes. But mainly that.

Signed and dropped by Universal records all within the space of a year way back in 2010, Age Against the Machine is the story of Weller’s failed music career and a love letter to music.

19:15 (20:15)

Strip Light Productions

CHLOE RADCLIFFE: CHEAT

Chloe is a serial monogamist who's very bad at one of those words. In this gutsy, electric debut from an NYC-based rising star, Chloe admits the guilty secret that most people keep forever. She’s been seen on Comedy Central and written for The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. There’s a confidence and ebullience she exudes that suggests she’s been doing stand-up her entire life Thrillist

19:25 (20:25)

COMEDY

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • BUNKER ONE

Off The Kerb Productions

LOUISE YOUNG: FERAL

Debut hour from Geordie rising star with a show all about class, chaos and coming out. She did ask her friends if her life had been feral enough to warrant this title, they laughed and assured her it still is. Tour support for Alan Carr and Tom Allen. As seen on Comedy Central Live and Channel 4's Original Comedy shorts. As heard On BBC Radio 4 (Fred at the Stand). Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year 2020 finalist. Leicester Comedy Festival Best Debut show nominee 2022.

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • THE ATTIC

£7 £10 (£9) £12 (£11)

Lee Martin for Gag Reflex

ADAM KAY: UNDOCTORED - THIS IS GOING TO HURT...MORE

The nation's twelfth-favourite doctor returns for his first month at the Fringe since 2016. This is Going to Hurt was the publishing phenomenon of the century, selling over three million books, winning multiple BAFTAs and with a live tour attended by over 250,000 people. But it was only part of the story. With his stethoscope now hung up, Adam shares more suture-splitting anecdotes from both on and off the wards. From the first days of medical school to life after the NHS, Undoctored is a hilarious and astonishing portrait of an extraordinary life, from one of

Britain’s finest - and funniest -storytellers.

It’s about hospital admissions and personal ones.

It's about being a doctor and being a patient. It's about an hour long.

The show also contains some favourite moments from This is Going to Hurt, because people ask for refunds if they don't get the 'degloving' story.

Laugh-out-loud funny, heartbreakingly sad, wonderful

Jonathan Ross

I don't think anyone has made me laugh so much about the human body as Adam Kay Rev Richard Coles

Help us #GetToZero new HIV transmissions in Scotland by 2030!

Who could’ve imagined - we are nearing the point where HIV diagnoses in Scotland could become a thing of the past!

Though HIV is now a treatable and manageable condition, a positive HIV diagnosis still has the power to knock people off their feet. For many, HIV stigma impacts every part of their lives. People still carry the burden of decades of discrimination and misinformation.

Not only can you help us fund HIV testing, support and life-changing services to end new transmissions, but together we can end HIV stigma.

Your support will help us make history!

If you see any of our fantastic volunteers out and about during the Fringe in their purple t-shirts, please donate what you can to support our work.

Play your part to change the lives of those at risk of HIV.

19:30 (20:30)

Show And Tell in association with Dawn Sedgwick Management

CELYA AB: SECOND RODEO

As a child, all she wanted was to be an adult. Now she's at the table, she wants out. Celya returns following her acclaimed, sell-out debut hour.

A superb contriver of pithy, memorable lines Scotsman

The UK's Parisian comedy star is making waves Guardian A comic shooting to fame List

19:30 (20:30)

The Pleasance PLEASANCE ALL AMERICAN NEWCOMER COMEDY GALA

An all-American line-up show, featuring the very best comedians from across the pond!

Discover the freshest comedy talent on the Fringe as they make their Pleasance debuts this summer.

Tickets are free!

COMEDY

19:30 (20:30)

Show And Tell in association with United Agents

RHYS JAMES: SPILT MILK

Rhys James is right back in Edinburgh for a limited time, fresh from a sell-out nationwide tour. Mock the Week's final regular, House of Games bottle-job and tuxedo’d Pointless loser. Since his last visit he’s released a third, ARIA nominated Radio 4 series, appeared on Live at the Apollo, and been hurled through the air on a bungee cord by Micah Richards on A League of Their Own.

Lightning-paced, gag-dense, precision delivered Guardian

19:30 (21:00)

The Pleasance

TARTAN RIBBON COMEDY BENEFIT

The best night of comedy on the Fringe returns!

Join us for a raucous night of laughter, raising much-needed funds for Waverley Care, Scotland's HIV and Hepatitis C charity.

The Tartan Ribbon has become a much-loved staple of the Fringe each year, with previous acts including Michael McIntyre, Russell Howard, Katherine Ryan and loads more big names.

It's guaranteed to sell out, so book your tickets early! Line-up to be announced.

19:30 (20:30)

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • PLEASANCE ONE

Off The Kerb Productions

ROSIE JONES — TRIPLE THREAT

Join Rosie as she ponders whether she is a national treasure, a little prick, or somewhere in between! Guaranteed to be full of unapologetic cheekiness, nonsensical fun and unadulterated joy from the triple threat herself.

Elegantly crafted and mischievous to its bones

Scotsman

£14 (£13)

19:45 (21:15), 17:45 (19:15) & 20:00 (21:30)

Nicholson Green Productions presents The Park Theatre production

TONY! [THE TONY BLAIR ROCK OPERA]

'Look, anyone will tell you, I’m a pretty straight sort of guy.'

Tony Blair

A reckless reappraisal of the life of former Ugly Rumours front man and Britain's first pop Prime Minister, Tony Blair. The story of how one man went from peace-loving, longhaired hippy and would-be pop star to warmongering multimillionaire in just a couple of decades. Throw in a stellar cast of larger-than-life characters - Cherie Blair, Princess Diana, John Prescott, Peter Mandelson, Alastair Campbell, Osama bin Laden, George W Bush, Saddam Hussein and Gordon Brown - it's Yes, Minister meets The Rocky Horror Show! And a musical like no other.

A hilarious musical tragedy of political intrigue, religion, power, and romance; this rip-roaring new musical by Harry Hill and Steve Brown received critical acclaim following a sold-out run at the Park Theatre in London.

Observer

Times

Sunday Times

Mail on Sunday

I was laughing so much I struggled to swallow my beer Daily Mail

Pure satire that is eccentrically British, with a great rock’n’roll soundtrack and original humour Theatre Weekly

19:40 (20:40)

Blue Book Artist Management

DARREN HARRIOTTROADMAN

Darren’s new show is all about how his life has changed for the better (yay!). He used to be a 'Roadman' who wouldn’t smile for a photo, but now he’s trying all sorts of things he thinks he missed out on; some good, some bad, but at least he’s smiling... just about. Double Edinburgh Award nominee, from Live at the Apollo and co-host of The Shame Is Delicious podcast.

Times

19:50 (20:50)

Lyle Productions and ramblemill in association with VAULT & Pleasance

A MANCHESTER ANTHEM

Winner of the Pleasance Pick of VAULT Festival Award. Flashing lights. Sticky floors. Dancing shoes. A riotous coming-of-age tale exploring class and identity.

A breath of theatrical fresh air

Broadway Baby

This is new writing that's impossible to resist Theatre Weekly

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • THE GREEN

20:00 (21:00)

Avalon

MATT FORDE: INSIDE NO. 10

Matt Forde (Spitting Image, HIGNFY, British Scandal, Last Leg) explores the comedy horror that is British politics, ahead of the next election. Plus silly voices.

Our foremost satirical stand-up... whatever your politics, you'll find excellence here Sunday Times

Possibly the best political comedy show on the Fringe Telegraph

20:00 (21:00)

So Comedy / Broken Robot Productions / Sophie Chapman Management

ROSIE HOLT: THAT'S POLITAINMENT!

The worse the political career, the more lucrative the subsequent entertainment opportunities. So can Rosie’s viral hit MP follow Dorries, Farage and Rees-Mogg in leaping from Hansard to Heat?

The Thick of It levels of writing and performance applied to a very current flavour of political bullshit Times

Beautifully observed and performed Guardian

20:00 (21:00)

Soho Theatre and Country Mile Productions

STRING V SPITTA

A kids party... but for adults. Soho Theatre’s smash-hit musical comedy about two rival children’s entertainers, starring Kiell SmithBynoe (Ghosts, Taskmaster, Stath Lets Flats) and Ed MacArthur (Bad Education, Dreamland).

So ingenious, it’s hard to believe it hasn’t been done before Independent

Delightful Guardian

20:00 (21:00)

Phil McIntyre Live in association with Corrie McGuire Management

MYRA DUBOIS: BE WELL

Be Well is Myra’s call-out to you, the disadvantaged, downtrodden, and tyrannised of the world, with her manifesto for mental health: AdMyrism! But are you ready to receive the call?

As seen on Britain’s Got Talent (ITV), The John Bishop Show (BBC1), Pointless Celebrities (BBC), Queens For The Night (ITV), and the major motion picture Everyone’s Talking About Jamie (Amazon Prime).

20:00 (21:00)

Emma Louise Boynton and Jimmy Jewell present

SEX TALKS

Let's talk about sex, baby. From the sell-out event series in London, New York and LA, sex columnist Emma Louise Boynton hosts discussions exploring all things taboo from sex to pleasure to the future of intimacy.

20:00 (21:00)

COMEDY

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • THE CELLAR

Impatient Productions / Hannah Layton Management

WILLIAM STONE: LOFI JOKES TO STUDY/RELAX TO

Put your feet up and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere at this jokepacked debut show from BBC New Comedy Award finalist and Moth Club star, William Stone. Inspired by YouTube relaxation playlists: slow down that brain and enjoy a much-needed rest during the festival. Contains zero peril. An excellent writer of quirky oneliners Chortle

£7 £10 (£8.50) £11 (£9.50)

Irish Celtic - Spirit of Ireland SPIRIT OF IRELAND

An amazing night of incredible dancing, stirring music, thrilling stories and classic comedy set in the oldest watering hole in Dublin, the legendary Irish Celtic pub. Meet the irrepressible landlord Paddy Flynn, as he shares the story of this thousand year old pub with his idiot son Diarmuid, who must inherit this ancient family establishment, but only when he has proven himself a worthy son of Eire.

This talented cast sing and dance their way through a brief history of Ireland, in an astonishing variety of traditional folk and modern dance styles, tap, jigs, polkas, and the spectacular Seannòs Brush Dance. The authentic five-piece band, complete with haunting Uilleann pipes, perform a stunning soundtrack of beautiful vocals,

nostalgic ballads and popular drinking songs composed, arranged and directed by Anthony Davies.

So come on down to enjoy the warm hospitality of the Irish Celtic Pub, taste the true Spirit of Ireland and enjoy the best lock-in of your life.

Written and directed by five-time Fringe First Award-winner Toby Gough.

This is big-hearted family entertainment

Die Welt

The stage jumps with the sound of Irish talent Montreal Gazette

Simply extraordinary Herald Sun, Melbourne

BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW

20:10 (21:10)

Show And Tell in association with PBJ Management

ANDRÉ DE FREITAS: WHAT IF

From living in a car and under a staircase, to becoming a male escort and now being Portugal's biggest young comedy star: this is the story of how I ended up here on this page. André's debut hour is a show about pursuing your dreams with an unwavering spirit of optimism. Tour support for Alan Carr, Russell Peters and Jim Gaffigan.

So funny, he's a star! Alan Carr

20:15 (21:30)

Brendan Murphy presented by James Seabright

BUFFY REVAMPED

Seven seasons. Seventy minutes. One Spike. Cult 90s TV show, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, as told through the eyes of the one character who knows it all. Double award-winning show from Brendan Murphy returns after sellout tour. BuffyRevamped.co.uk

Hilarious... something you will want to get your teeth into! BTG

Supernaturally good! Starburst

20:20 (21:20)

Mick Perrin Worldwide

LAURA RAMOSO:

FRANCES

With over 1 million followers and 300 million views across social media, comedian Laura Ramoso makes her highly anticipated Fringe debut! Featuring her most popular characters like Italian Dad, German Mom and the Three Girls Who Just Got Back From Europe, FRANCES tells a hilarious and painfully relatable story about love and loss through the best in sketch and improv comedy. A fast-paced, laugh-out-loud, tour de force SesayArts Magazine

20:10 (21:10)

AEG Presents in association with UTA

GRETA TITELMAN'S EXQUISITE LIES

This intimate evening of storytelling and song thrillingly investigates the most deranged, dramatic person in Greta's life; herself. After blissfully living a life lacking self-awareness, Greta's determined to change that. Between a childhood bully, rich boyfriends and a dying mother, Greta leaves no stone unturned. Star of Search Party. A wildly funny, unforgettable show Patti Harrison

20:20 (21:20)

Off The Kerb Productions

JOSH JONES: GOBSMACKED

Brand-new show from everyone's favourite gobby Manc Princess and Edinburgh Comedy Awards' Best Newcomer nominee. As seen on: The Jonathan Ross Show, 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, Alan Davies: As Yet Untitled, Dating No Filter, Comedy Central's Guessable, Rhod Gilbert's Growing Pains and Comedy Central Live. Co-host on Dave's Hard Sell with Darren Harriott and hit podcast Chatting with Cherubs with Morgan Rees.

20:20 (21:20)

Soho Theatre

PATTI HARRISON: MY HUGE TITS HUGE BECAUSE THEY ARE INFECTED NOT FAKE!

COMEDY PLEASANCE DOME • QUEENDOME

Cult comedy icon Patti Harrison (I Think You Should Leave, The Lost City) returns with an hour of comedy that refuses to be categorized. Expect pure, chaotic fun.

Wildly unexpected... the most rarefied of comic pleasures Guardian

COMEDY

PLEASANCE AT EICC • LOMOND THEATRE

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • BABY GRAND

COMEDY PLEASANCE DOME • JACKDOME

20:20 (21:20)

Clementine Bogg-Hargroves PLEASE LOVE ME

'I felt this pressure to be sexy from the second I got tits. And then the f***ers didn’t even grow that much.'

Please Love Me is a high energy, one-woman comedy-drama about first loves, morality and strength. From the creator of the sell out show SKANK (The Times’ Critics Choice for Edinburgh Fringe 2021 and Offies OffFest nominee 2021) comes a one-woman spectacle featuring pole dancing and original music.

A first love, second heartbreak, and third piece of cake in a row make a naughty teenager question if she can ever be a 'good woman'. And what the hell that even means, as she navigates getting knocked up, losing a best friend and protesting in the Middle East.

Ready for some clubland classics and moral philosophy?

Praise for SKANK:

Bogg-Hargroves is a great physical performer and an engaging presence

Skinny

Undoubtedly funny

All Edinburgh Theatre

Bogg-Hargroves can single-handedly move you through more different emotions in 60 minutes than you might even think possible

Broadway Baby

20:30 (21:30)

Stamptown Proudly Presents

ANNABEL MARLOW... IS THIS OKAY??

From Six (Edinburgh Fringe original cast), Public - The Musical (Vaults) and several perfect pictures (Instagram) Annabel Marlow makes her solo debut.

Enjoy a comedy gig (we’re making it a thing!) of original music, perfect singing not even kidding, and absolute vibes.

20:30 (21:30)

Mick Perrin Worldwide

GEORGE

ZACHAROPOULOS: WONDERLAND

George found himself falling head over heels for Alice, straight down a rabbit hole of fantasy and delusion.

As seen on ITV, BBC One, Sky & Dave.

Truly terrific Melbourne Herald

His jokes are sharp, his timing is impeccable List

20:30 (21:30)

Horatio Gould

HORATIO GOULD: SWEET PRINCE

Horatio's friends tell him he needs to open up, but he feels he has nothing to confess. Being part of a generation where everyone is constantly reminded that 'it's okay to not be okay', Horatio asks the question: is it no longer okay to be okay? Join this viral sensation (50 million views online) for his hotly anticipated debut hour. Tour Support for Frankie Boyle.

The most exciting comedic mind this country’s seen since Chris Morris Fin Taylor

20:30 (21:30)

Country Mile Productions

JOHN TOTHILL: THE LAST LIVING LIBERTINE

Join John Tothill, the Last Living Libertine [citation needed], for an evening of exaggeration, emancipation and dense theoretical speculation in a debut show that straddles cabaret and TEDTalk (also known as stand-up comedy). Expect sleepover-style gossip, dressed up in a way that feels more important (but isn’t).

Directed by Adam Brace. 2Northdown New Act Competition 2022 winner. As seen on Hinge.

20:30 (21:30)

Avalon

SIMON BRODKIN: XAVIER

Following a 120-date international tour, the most-viewed British comedian on TikTok and worldfamous prankster who showered Sepp Blatter with dollar bills and handed Theresa May a P45, returns with an outrageous new stand-up show about guns, God, Ayatollah Khamenei and a man called Xavier. Simon’s last Fringe run was completely sold-out.

No show has made me laugh more Times

20:45 (21:45)

The Pleasance

COMEDY RESERVE AT THE COURTYARD

Catch four of the best up-and-coming comedy acts in the 17th year of the Comedy Reserve, hand-picked by the Pleasance and supported by the Charlie Hartill Fund. The line-up includes Micah Hall, Shalaka Kurup, Ele McKenzie and Vlad Ilich.

This is your chance to discover the most exciting newcomers before they become household names, from the show that helped launch the careers of Jack Whitehall, Sophie Duker, John Kearns, Darren Harriott, Catherine Bohart and Nigel Ng, plus loads more!

This year, the Pleasance is bringing two Comedy Reserve shows to the Edinburgh Fringe, so make sure to catch the Comedy Reserve at the Dome as well! (Page 75) 17

20:40 (21:40)

Tamsyn Kelly

TAMSYN KELLY: CRYING IN TK MAXX

When working class, Cornish comedian Tamsyn Kelly, discovers footage of her estranged father in a Channel 4 documentary, she's forced to stop and reassess her life. How have the men shaped who she is? Will the chicken shop guy ever give her the time of day? Why was Mr Blobby her first crush? A brutally honest, but fair appraisal of the men in her life, from a woman who has cried in most high street shops.

21:00 (22:00)

Stamptown Proudly Presents

COURTNEY PAUROSO:

VANESSA 5000

Sold Out Run: Soho Theatre (2019). Award-winning LA clown returns as sex robot Vanessa5000, who — over the course of her product demonstration — grows increasingly conflicted about her own very existence.

Hilarious and unsettling Broadway Baby

You have to see this show

Kate Copstick, Scotsman

21:00 (22:00)

Impatient Productions

MARK WATSON: SEARCH

Mark Watson's 12-year-old son just got a phone. His 70-yearold dad has been through the most frightening experience of his life. Both a dad and a kid himself, around the midpoint of his life, the Taskmaster star, multiple award-winner and Fringe legend returns to consider the search for meaning that we're all on, with or without Google. There will be a lot of jokes.

A genius-level comic doing what he does best... magical to watch and just so funny Time Out Melbourne

Witty, warm, perfectly judged Telegraph

Uplifting, time excellently spent Chortle

21:15 (22:15)

Dan Jones

DAN

JONES:

AMBITIOUS

THIS SEEMS

The debut offering from Breakthrough Comedian of the Year Dan Jones in which he attempts to prove that love exists. One completely unique hour of stand up. One completely stable comedian.

What a funny boy

Jessica Fostekew

Definitely one to watch

Rhod Gilbert

One of the funniest comics I know hands down Janine Harouni

21:25 (22:25)

COMEDY

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • BUNKER TWO

Show And Tell in association with Ebdon Management

TADIWA MAHLUNGE:

INHIBITION EXHIBITION

One of the country's top new comedians presents his debut hour. At 25, already seen on BBC1, Dave and Comedy Central. Pleasance Comedy Reserve 2022 alumnus and Leicester Comedy Festival Best Show nominee.

Fearless comedian on the rise

Daniel Kaluuya

He's going to be playing very big venues soon Metro

Very bloody funny Aisling Bea

21:30 (22:30)

COMEDY

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • PLEASANCE TWO

Berk's Nest in association with PBJ Management

MAWAAN: SONGS

ABOUT BIRDS (WIP)

Think guineafowl. Think mangos. Think existential dread. Taskmaster’s 'sneaky pasta snake' tries out some brand new songs. As seen on Live at the Apollo and Friday Night Live.

Bursting with energy

Evening Standard

Very funny Times

£12 (£10)

pleasance patrons

Supporting Pleasance Futures

Our Patrons directly support Pleasance Futures, the development strand of our charity. It is at the very heart of everything we do, but we cannot do it alone.

Through Pleasance Futures we develop early career artists, young performers, writers, practitioners and producers, as well as those behind the scenes.

As a charitable organisation that receives no regular public subsidy, support from Patrons is vital.

With your backing as a Pleasance Patron we can continue to mentor creative work and career paths that, without support, may never come to light. If, like us, you believe in the importance of this, we’d love your help.

Pleasance patronage comes in a range of suggested levels of donation, from Yellow to Platinum, all of which offer unique and exciting benefits dedicated to bringing you closer to our work and the artists we support.

Scan the QR code to become a Patron or email pleasance.co.uk and find out more.

The Showstoppers / Something for the Weekend SHOWSTOPPER! THE IMPROVISED MUSICAL

The Olivier Award-winning (Best Entertainment and Family Show) West End hit returns to the Fringe!

The masters of musical improv create a brand new musical comedy from scratch every night in this multi award-winning show.

Audience suggestions are transformed onthe-spot into all-singing, all-dancing, hilarious stories. Whether you fancy something in the style of 'Chicago' in the Castle, or 'Matilda' on The Meadows - you suggest it and The Showstoppers will sing it!

A Fringe favourite and a sell-out phenomenon; your Edinburgh experience is simply incomplete without it. Book early!

Had me weeping with laughter Mail on Sunday

The best musical improvisation group we've ever come across Time Out Critics' Choice

The top musical improvisers in the business... Compulsory Fringe viewing... Just book in time Broadway Baby

If this is what improv can do, you wonder why anyone bothers writing anything down Times Has everything you want from a blockbuster musical – it just happens to be made up on the spot Metro

BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW

21:30 (22:30)

Lord Productions

MR & MRS LOVE

All-singing! All-dancing! Alldivorcing? Meet Mr & Mrs Love, royalty on the cabaret circuit for the last 12 years. But tonight it's not just a cabaret... something is brewing under the sequins and piano licks, something is about to go very, very wrong.

A battle of hearts, minds and music ensue as the two sing for their survival, with a surprising array of musical instruments, outrageous dancing and acidic wit.

21:35 (22:35)

Paddy Young

PADDY YOUNG: HUNGRY, HORNY, SCARED

He’s hungry. He’s horny. He’s scared. He’s in the gutter but he’s looking down on all of you.

Join Northern powerhouse Paddy Young, one of comedy’s fastest rising stars, for his unmissable debut stand up hour.

As seen on Channel 4, ITV2, Sky & Stewart Lee’s recommendation list. Over 10 million views online. One of the most exciting new comics I've seen for a long time

Joe Lycett

21:40 (22:40)

Haud Yer Wheesht Theatre in association with The Pleasance

BAMPOTS

Bampots. Noun. 1. (Scotland, slang, derogatory) An idiot; an objectionable and foolish person. What’s Scotland without the people? This debut play from Haud Yer Wheesht Theatre explores what it means to be Scottish! Through the medium of a ceilidh rave, you’ll be taken on a tour of our country. There is no better way to experience Scotland.

21:40 (22:40)

Stamptown Proudly Presents

HUGE DAVIES: WHODUNNIT

From Cats Does Countdown, Edinburgh Best Newcomer nominee returns with his highly anticipated second show about murder. Wearable keyboard? Check! Deadpan delivery? Check! Murder? Read the first sentence. No. 1 show in Time Out London.

21:40 (22:40)

The Pleasance

COMEDY RESERVE AT THE DOME

Catch four of the best up-and-coming comedy acts in the 17th year of the Comedy Reserve, hand-picked by the Pleasance and supported by the Charlie Hartill Fund. The line-up includes Abby Wambaugh, Will Robbins, Kyrah Gray and Jin Hao Li.

This is your chance to discover the most exciting newcomers before they become household names, from the show that helped launch the careers of Joe Lycett, Brett Goldstein, Roisin Conaty, Jamali Maddix, Lou Sanders and Chloe Petts, plus loads more!

This year, the Pleasance is bringing two Comedy Reserve shows to the Edinburgh Fringe, so make sure to catch the Comedy Reserve at the Courtyard as well! (Page 71)

21:40 (22:40)

Linus Karp & Awkward Productions

HOW TO LIVE A JELLICLE LIFE: LIFE LESSONS FROM THE 2019 HIT MUSICAL CATS

A show that provides a jellicle discussion about the jellicle aspects of the jellicle cats in Cats and how you can apply them to your life in order to make it truly jellicle.

An award-winning evening of queer chaos brought to you by the team from Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story – no previous Cats knowledge required.

Camp, kitsch and catnip for the soul Theatre Weekly

So much FUN

James Graham

Too many penis jokes

Guardian

21:40 (22:40)

London Limelight

JAZZ EMU: YOU SHOULDN'T HAVE

Returning after two sell-out runs at Soho Theatre, global sensation Jazz Emu is back with his virtuoso musical spectacular.

This is a work of genius Telegraph

I may just have found my new favourite comedian Times

Improbable, clever and very funny Guardian

21:45 (22:45)

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • THE ATTIC

Show And Tell in association with Wales Millennium Centre

LEILA NAVABI: COMPOSITION

The Welsh, brown, gay, Gen-Z comedian presents her debut hour: an audacious punk musicalcomedy show about the dubious ethics of artistically exploiting marginalised identities for social gain. Star of BBC's Vandullz and the BBC New Comedy Awards 2022, Leila has written for Bad Education and Never Mind The Buzzcocks.

The actual future of comedy LMAOnaiseComedy.com

21:40 (22:40)

Avalon

PAUL CHOWDHRY: FAMILY-FRIENDLY COMEDIAN

As the climax to his twiceextended sell-out national tour, the star of Taskmaster and the first British-Asian stand-up to sell-out Wembley Arena on his smash-hit Live Innit tour, returns to Edinburgh for the first time in almost ten years!

A stand up so vibrant and imperiously on top of his game Mail on Sunday

21:45 (22:45)

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • BUNKER THREE

Stamptown Proudly Presents

MARTIN URBANO:

APOLOGY COMEBACK TOUR

In his controversial comeback show, Martin briefly shares mildly personal insights regarding the allegations against him, and then offers a ton of hilarious takes on 'wokeness', family, and the current social climate.

He often leans into a persona of a sex creep VICE His work combines edgy, almostover-the-line humor with - get this - really good jokes Vulture Sincerely subversive NY Times

21:50 (22:50)

Lee Martin for Gag Reflex

FLAT & THE CURVES: DIVADOM

The Chortle Award 2023 finalists bring you their glittery comedy cabaret of unbridled fun! The comedy quartet delivers their self-penned songs celebrating sex and sisterhood in a bra-burning evening of mischief. Expect big voices and bold statements in a sparkly spectacle filled with hilarity and full-frontal vulgarity. 'Fierce, intoxicating and gloriously indecorous' (4.5 stars, Chortle).

Truly remarkable Broadway World

An evening of rip-roaring entertainment West End Wilma

Spy in the Stalls

21:50 (22:50)

IAM

JODIE MITCHELL: BECOMING JOHN TRAVULVA

Award-winning 'brilliant... natural comic' (Guardian) John Travulva teams up with his tick-box protégé - queer, non-binary class-straddler

Jodie Mitchell (Comedy Central Live, UKTV, Channel 4). But does he need to? He's not sure, he gets plenty of praise as himself.

John's set is so funny it makes all the comedy in my life up to this point redundant Theatre Bubble

Standout talent Stage

22:00 (23:00)

Soho Theatre

BILL O'NEILL: THE AMAZING BANANA BROTHERS

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • BESIDE

21:55 (22:55)

Lee Martin for Gag Reflex

CARA CONNORS: STRAIGHT FOR PAY

As seen on Hulu, Just for Laughs and Apple TV, Cara Connors is a comedian and multifaceted homosexual with an ass that won’t quit. Fresh off her 30-city international tour, Connors makes her Edinburgh debut with her unique brand of high energy and fearlessly chaotic comedy.

Hilariously acerbic Paste Magazine

Will have you reaching for the rosary beads Irish Times

Two daredevil brothers attempt the impossible – slipping on 1,000 banana peels. Through a surreal exploration of loss, failure, masculinity and death-defying pratfalls, O’Neill challenges the limits of the human body and spirit, one banana peel at a time.

Directed by Edinburgh Comedy Award-winning Natalie Palamides (Nate, Laid).

22:00 (23:00)

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • THE GRAND

Berk's Nest in association with United Agents

NICK MOHAMMED

PRESENTS THE VERY BEST & WORST OF MR. SWALLOW

Double Emmy award-nominee and star of Ted Lasso Nick Mohammed brings Mr. Swallow back to the Edinburgh Fringe.

Comic masterclass Times

Pure entertainment Telegraph

Sh!t-faced Shakespeare

SH!T-FACED SHAKESPEARE®: ROMEO & JULIET

The smash-hit, internationally acclaimed, multi sell-out Fringe phenomenon is back with their hilarious combination of an entirely serious adaptation of Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet with an entirely sh!t-faced actor. Featuring a rotating cast of the finest classically trained actors, partial nudity, foul language, acts of a sexual nature and actual Shakespeare - no two shows are ever the same!

Sh!t-faced Shakespeare seeks to introduce theatre goers to the works of the Bard by reviving the raucous, interactive and vibrant nature of Elizabethan theatre with a very modern twist. Remember to enjoy Shakespeare responsibly.

Prithee follow us on Instagram: @shitfacedshakespeare

A great night out to get properly Pucked up. It's what Willy would have wanted Time Out

I have no idea how they do it, as there wasn’t a soul in the audience who wasn’t in stitches from start to finish Broadway Baby

This was laugh-out-loud funny and was a brilliant example of just how creative the team behind the show are Spy in the Stalls

Theatre for people who hate theatre. I hated it beyond words Sunday Times

BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW

22:20 (23:20)

Stamptown Proudly Presents MOSES STORM: PERFECT

CULT

Official Selection: Variety’s 10 Comics to Watch (2022). Fresh off his HBO Max stand-up special Trash White produced by Conan O’Brien, Moses Storm makes his Edinburgh debut with a brandnew show about being raised in an unsuccessful doomsday cult. Film and TV credits include: Arrested Development (Netflix), Everything's Trash (Hulu), Half Baked 2 (Universal) and multiple late-night sets.

22:30 (23:30)

Berk's Nest

CATHERINE COHEN: COME FOR ME

After her critically acclaimed Netflix special, Edinburgh Comedy Award winner Catherine Cohen returns to the Fringe.

Outrageously sharp Guardian

Winningly funny Evening Standard

A fabulous performer... brings to mind Tim Minchin Chortle

22:30 (23:30)

Lachlan Werner

LACHLAN WERNERVOICES OF EVIL

The horrifying debut from the award-winning poof prince of puppets. A 'must-see' (Reviews Hub) sell-out hit. Ventriloquist/ clown, Lachlan Werner, presents an occult ritual, where demonic voices come from every corner.

Joyously metatheatrical. The definitive queer puppet show Lost In Theatreland

Winningly silly Chortle

23:00 (00:30)

AEG Presents in association with PBJ Management

ALL KILLA NO FILLA

Hot off the back of huge sold out shows in Manchester, Birmingham and London, stellar comedians Rachel Fairburn and Kiri PritchardMcLean bring their smash-hit true crime podcast, All Killa No Filla, back to the Edinburgh Fringe. The hilarious and outspoken pair will host a late-night show full to the rafters of legends. So come along and watch as they overdress, overshare, over swear and if they remember, talk about true crime.

(£15.50)

22:50 (23:50)

JORDAN BROOKES: SNAKES FOR CATS TO WATCH (WORK IN PROGRESS)

Some new ideas from the Edinburgh Comedy Award winner 2019.

Sublime lack of self-awareness List

A performer teetering on the brink of sanity Scotsman

23:00 (23:50), 18:00 (18:50) & 14:05 (14:55)

Richard Jordan Productions, 412, with Lawrence Batley Theatre, Ketchup, Pleasance

LASH - A PULSATING NEW PLAY ABOUT GOING OUT OUT!

Get on the Lash! A booze-fuelled adrenalin rush, through bustling streets and bouncing clubs, where big tunes and mad characters collide. From the award-winning creators of Heroin(e) For Breakfast and just in time for last orders!

Stunning piece of theatre Scotsman

PLEASANCE COURTYARD • BUNKER THREE

IAM

23:00 (00:00)

Play People Productions

LATE NIGHT MAGIC

Prepare to have your mind blown! Expect the unexpected in this brand new late night line-up of the best magic and variety acts the Fringe has to offer! Starring members of the famous Magic Circle and hosted by Tom Brace.

Charmed, amazed and delighted in equal measure!

James

O'Brien LBC

A great way to spend an hour at the Fringe!

World Magic Review

23:00 (00:20)

The Pleasance

PLEASANCE NEWCOMER COMEDY GALA

A one-off comedy extravaganza!

For the past 38 years, the Pleasance has been the home of new comedy talent in Edinburgh.

Check out some of the most exciting new comedians at the Fringe as they make their Pleasance debuts in this late-night comedy party. Best of all, tickets are free! Line-up to be announced.

23:00 (00:00)

Plosive Live NICK HELM'S HOT 'N' HEAVY WEEKEND

Join the legendary Nick Helm as he celebrates the 10th anniversary of his first album Hot 'N' Heavy, performing the whole damn thing. Top. To. Tail.

All the bangers. All the heat. All the sweat.

A true mastermind EdFest Mag

Terrific Times

23:00 (00:30)

Stamptown Proudly Presents

STAMPTOWN COMEDY NIGHT

Sold Out Run: Edinburgh Fringe (2017-2022).

A raunchy and chaotic, late-night variety show featuring the best alternative performance on the international scene. Hosted by the bad boy of clown, Zach Zucker. The best late-night show on the festival circuit Chortle

A popular showcase of cuttingedge comics New York Times

The best live comedy cabaret

Brian Logan, Guardian

• FORTH

23:00 (00:00)

Rosa Garland

TRASH SALAD

Sex. Love. Lettuce. Join Trash Salad on a joyful, dirty, clownburlesque adventure into the messy parts of queer intimacy. Nominated for the VAULT Festival 2023 Innovation Award.

Salad at its sexiest Fringebiscuit

A force of nature Wee Review

A knock out... riotously funny Binge Fringe

23:00 (0:00) & 15:30 (16:30)

Off The Kerb Productions

IVO GRAHAM: ORGANISED FUN

After dismantling a barge (Taskmaster), doxxing himself in the Doubletree (Off Menu), and blanking on the 1992 Ipswich Town crest (University Challenge), Ivo ropes his audience into more chaos against the clock. Expect quizzes, tangents and fluster. Best Show/Joke nominee 2019.

BBBB

Motormouthed finesse Times

I could watch him natter all day Telegraph

23:20 (01:00)

Impatient Productions

SIBLINGS & FAMILY

FRIENDS

Prepare yourselves for a wild and wonderful variety night, hosted by character-comedians and IRL sisters Maddy and Marina Bye, of critically acclaimed Siblings and starring their family friends... (who happen to be the best comedians at the Fringe). 3 exclusive nights.

Nominated: The Edinburgh Fringe Comedians Choice Award 2022.

Nobody could make it through this with a straight face Telegraph

23:10 (00:10)

Berk's Nest, Tarot & Kiri Pritchard-McLean in association with PBJ Management

TAROT: HIVE MIND

From the minds of Tarot and Kiri Pritchard-McLean, Hive Mind is a loose late night gameshow where contestants have to crowdsource their way to victory.

Bark out loud funny... the whole show is startlingly live Guardian

One of the balls-out funniest shows of the Fringe Chortle

23:30 (01:30)

Comedians Beer Mat Flipping

COMEDIANS BEER MAT

FLIPPING SUPER BOWL

8 top comedians compete to see who is the champion beermat flipper 2023!

Sikisa, Bella Hull and Stuart Laws host comedy’s premier sporting event, with 8 guest comedians competing to take home the trophy. Expect trick shots, live betting odds, trash talk, live slap bass and a night to remember.

show INDEX show INDEX

#

1000 Miniature Meadows

30 and Out

52 Monologues for Young...

AA Comedy of Operas

A Manchester Anthem

Aaron Simmonds: Baby Steps

Actually, Love

Adam Kay: Undoctored

Adrian Bliss: Inside Everyone

Alexandra Haddow: Not My Finest...

All Aboard! at Termination Station

All Killa No Filla

André de Freitas: What If

...And This Is My Friend Mr Laurel

Andy Parsons: Bafflingly Optimistic

Ania Magliano: I Can’t Believe...

Annabel Marlow... is this okay??

Any Suggestions, Doctor?

BBampots

Beautiful Evil Things

Benji Waterstones: You Don’t Have...

Best of Edinburgh Showcase Show

Bill O’Neill: The Amazing Banana...

Bitter Lemons

Black

Bronwyn Sweeney: Off-Brand

Buff

Buffy Revamped

Burning Down The Horse

Burns The Musical

CCara Connors: Straight for Pay

Casting the Runes

Catherine Cohen: Come For Me

Celya AB: Second Rodeo

Chasing Butterflies

Chatham House Rules

Chloe Petts: If You Can’t Say...

Chloe Radcliffe: Cheat

CHOO CHOO! (Or... Have You Ever...

Chriskirkpatrickmas: A Boy Band...

Clown Sex

Comedians Beer Mat Flipping Super...

Comedy Reserve at the Courtyard

Comedy Reserve at the Dome

Courtney Pauroso: Vanessa 5000

Cowboys and Lesbians

Crizards: This Means War

DDan Jones: This Seems Ambitious

Daniel Foxx: Villain

Dark Noon

Darran Griffiths: Inconceivable

Darren Harriott - Roadman

Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story

Dirty Words

Doktor Kaboom and the Wheel...

Dominique Salerno: The Box Show

Dough

Drew Michael: Drew’s Adventures

Dual دوگانه

FFast Fringe

Fiona Allen: On The Run

Flat & the Curves: Divadom

Four Felons and a Funeral

Frankie Thompson & Liv Ello: Body...

Freya Parker: It Ain’t Easy Being...

EEdmonds

EGG: Absolutely Fine

EULOGY

GGeorge Zacharopoulos: Wonderland

Glass Ceiling Beneath The Stars

Glenn Moore: Will You Still Need...

Godot is a Woman

Graham in the Green

Green Fingers

Greta Titelman’s Exquisite Lies

Groomed

H

Hal Cruttenden: It’s Best You Hear It...

Hello Kitty Must Die

Home

HoneyBEE

Horatio Gould: Sweet Prince

Hot as Hell

How To Bury A Dead Mule

How To Live A Jellicle Life: Life...

Huge Davies: Whodunnit

II Love You, Now What?

Iain Dale and Jacqui Smith’s For The...

Iain Dale: All Talk

Ikechukwu Ufomadu: Amusements

JJanine Harouni: Man’oushe

Jazz Emu: You Shouldn’t Have

Jesus, Jane, Mother, & Me

Jodie Mitchell: Becoming John...

John Tothill: The Last Living Libertine

Jonny Pelham: Optimism Over...

Jordan Brookes: Snakes for Cats...

Josh Jones: Gobsmacked

Josh Weller: Age Against The Machine

Mawaan: Songs About Birds (WIP)

Max & Ivan: Life, Choices

MEAT

Mervyn Stutter’s Pick of the Fringe

Mervyn’s 30th Year Charity Gala

Moses Storm: Perfect Cult

Mr & Mrs Love

Murder, She Didn’t Write

MUSIC

Myra Dubois: Be Well

KKieran Hodgson: Big In Scotland

Kirsty Mann: Skeletons

Knock, Knock

LLachlan Werner - Voices Of Evil

Lash - A Pulsating New Play About...

Late Night Magic

Laura Ramoso: FRANCES

Leila Navabi: Composition

Lindsey Santoro: Pink Tinge

Liz Guterbock: Geriatric Millennial

Lorna Rose Treen: Skin Pigeon

Louise Young: Feral

Lucy & Friends

Luke Kempner in Gritty Police...

Luke Wright’s Silver Jubilee

Lulu Popplewell: Actually, Actually

Nabil

NewsRevue

Nick

Hot

The Purple Pill

MMadame Chandelier’s Opera Party...

Magic Gareth: Level Up!

Mamoun Elagab: Why I Love White...

Marcus Brigstocke: Cheese and Whine

Mark Watson: Search

Martin Urbano: Apology Comeback...

Mary O’Connell: Money Princess

Matt Forde: Inside No. 10

Matty Hutson: Don’t Hold Back

Pleading

Pleasance All

Pleasance

Pleasance Opening Gala

Please Love Me

Public - The Musical

Rosie Jones — Triple Threat

Rubbish Romeo and Juliet

The Ice Hole: A Cardboard Comedy

The Importance of Being... Earnest?

The Life Sporadic of Jess Wildgoose

The Man Who Thought He Knew Too...

The Night of the Musicals

The Return

SSanti & Naz

Sapan Verma: Shame On Me Saturn Return

Scaredy Fat Science Adventures: Deep Sea

Sea Dragon Babies

Sea Dragon for Under 5s

SÉANCE

Self-Raising

Sex Talks

Sh!t-faced Shakespeare

Shaparak Khorsandi: ShapChat!

Shelf: The Kids’ Show

Showgirls & Spies

Showstopper! The Improvised Musical

Siân

- Pole Yourself

Them

Thirst

Tickbox 2

Tom Brace: A Trick Down Memory...

Tom Moran is a Big Fat Filthy...

Tones: A Hip-Hop Opera

TONY! [The Tony Blair Rock Opera]

TTadiwa Mahlunge: Inhibition Exhibition

Tamsyn Kelly: Crying in TK Maxx

Tarot: Hive Mind

Tartan Ribbon Comedy Benefit

Teacher’s Pet

Tennessee, Rose

The Big Bite-Size Breakfast Show

The Brief Life & Mysterious Death...

The Cambridge Footlights...

The Great

DRUG: A Comedy about...

YYoga with Jillian - A New Comedy

ZZach Zucker: Spectacular Industry...

PLEASANCE

TWO YOGA WITH JILLIANA NEW COMEDY

SCIENCE ADVENTURES: DEEP SEA

ACEDOME

FORTH

PLEASANCE BELOW

BUNKER TWO

QUEENDOME

PLEASANCE ONE

THE GREEN 30 AND OUT

10DOME

BABY GRAND

SELF-RAISING

UPSTAIRS

SIDLAW THEATRE THE MAN WHO THOUGHT HE KNEW TOO MUCH

THE GRAND DIRTY WORDS

WONDER DRUG: A COMEDY ABOUT CYSTIC FIBROSIS

MERVYN STUTTER’S PICK OF THE FRINGE

MUSIC

THE ATTIC

BUNKER ONE

CABARET BAR TENNESSEE, ROSE

THE GREEN SPIN CYCLES

BUNKER THREE GROOMED

BESIDE VIOLET AND ME

BENEATH

JACKDOME

ACEDOME TRULY MADLY BALDY

BREAK UP WITH YOUR BOYFRIEND

CHATHAM HOUSE RULES

IAIN DALE: ALL TALK

THE ICE HOLE: A CARDBOARD COMEDY

BURNING DOWN THE HORSE

IMPROVISED

BEST OF EDINBURGH SHOWCASE SHOW

SHELF: THE KIDS’ SHOW

KINGDOME

OF IRELAND

DOUGH

THE GREEN

CABARET BAR

PENTLAND THEATRE

SIDLAW THEATRE

SIDLAW THEATRE

KNOCK, KNOCK

IAIN DALE: ALL TALK

IAIN DALE AND JACQUI SMITH’S FOR THE MANY LIVE

ACEDOME

PLEASANCE ONE

10DOME

THE CELLAR

UPSTAIRS

UPSTAIRS

BUNKER TWO ACTUALLY, LOVE

SCAREDY FAT

ADRIAN BLISS: INSIDE EVERYONE

SOUND CLASH: DEATH IN THE ARENA

TOM BRACE: A TRICK DOWN MEMORY LANE

LIZ GUTERBOCK: GERIATRIC MILLENNIAL

FIONA ALLEN: ON THE RUN

ZACH ZUCKER: SPECTACULAR INDUSTRY SHOWCASE

KINGDOME

PLEASANCE BELOW

BABY GRAND

BUNKER THREE

THE ATTIC

BUNKER ONE

BESIDE

PLEASANCE TWO

AARON SIMMONDS: BABY STEPS

DIANA: THE UNTOLD AND UNTRUE STORY

BENJI WATERSTONES: YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE MAD TO WORK HERE

ANIA MAGLIANO: I CAN’T BELIEVE YOU’VE DONE THIS

LULU POPPLEWELL: ACTUALLY, ACTUALLY

TREEN: SKIN PIGEON

LORNA ROSE

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING... EARNEST?

PLEASANCE BEYOND A COMEDY OF OPERAS

DARRAN GRIFFITHS: INCONCEIVABLE

EGG: ABSOLUTELY FINE

HELLO KITTY MUST DIE

FRANKIE THOMPSON & LIV ELLO: BODY SHOW

LOMOND THEATRE

THE GREEN

FORTH

THE NIGHT OF THE MUSICALS

TICKBOX 2

LUCY & FRIENDS

PLEASANCE ABOVE

QUEENDOME

THE BRIEF LIFE & MYSTERIOUS DEATH OF BORIS III, KING OF BULGARIA

ACEDOME

PENTLAND THEATRE

THE CELLAR

THE GRAND

UPSTAIRS

BUNKER TWO

CABARET BAR

CABARET BAR

JACKDOME

PENTLAND THEATRE

CROMDALE TUNNEL MAX & IVAN: LIFE, CHOICES

A COMEDY OF OPERAS

WILLIAM THOMPSON: THE HAND YOU’RE DEALT

NEWSREVUE

LUKE KEMPNER IN GRITTY POLICE DRAMA: A ONE-MAN MUSICAL

AMUSEMENTS BY IKECHUKWU UFOMADU

RACHEL PARRIS: WORK IN PROGRESS

HAL CRUTTENDEN: IT’S BEST YOU HEAR IT FROM ME

DREW MICHAEL: DREW’S ADVENTURES

TONY! [THE TONY BLAIR ROCK OPERA]

10DOME

BABY GRAND

PLEASANCE BELOW

BUNKER THREE

BUNKER THREE

PLEASANCE ONE

PLEASANCE ONE

TRAINSPOTTING LIVE

CRIZARDS: THIS MEANS WAR

FREYA PARKER: IT AIN’T EASY BEING CHEEKY

KIRSTY MANN: SKELETONS

MARY O’CONNELL: MONEY PRINCESS

LASHA PULSATING NEW PLAY ABOUT GOING OUT OUT!

A COMEDY OF OPERAS

PENTLAND THEATRE ANY SUGGESTIONS, DOCTOR? THE IMPROVISED DOCTOR WHO PARODY

SHAPARAK KHORSANDI: SHAPCHAT!

GLENN MOORE: WILL YOU STILL NEED ME, WILL YOU STILL FEED ME, GLENN I’M SIXTY MOORE

SANTORO: PINK

BESIDE

BUNKER ONE

BENEATH

ABDULRASHID: THE PURPLE PILL

MAMOUN ELAGAB: WHY I LOVE WHITE PEOPLE

JANINE HAROUNI: MAN’OUSHE

KINGDOME

LOMOND THEATRE

PLEASANCE BEYOND

THE CAMBRIDGE FOOTLIGHTS INTERNATIONAL TOUR SHOW

GRAHAM: ORGANISED FUN

IVO

THE GREEN

PLEASANCE ABOVE

THE GREEN

THE CELLAR

BUNKER TWO

ACEDOME

TEACHER’S PET

CHLOE PETTS: IF YOU CAN’T SAY ANYTHING NICE

UPSTAIRS

JACKDOME

QUEENDOME

BABY GRAND

SAPAN VERMA: SHAME ON ME

PELHAM: OPTIMISM OVER DESPAIR

JONNY

HADDOW: NOT MY FINEST HOUR

PLEASANCE TWO KIERAN HODGSON: BIG IN SCOTLAND

CABARET BAR HOT AS HELL

PLEADING STUPIDITY

MARCUS BRIGSTOCKE: CHEESE AND WHINE

FORTH

PLEASANCE BELOW

BUNKER THREE

ANDY PARSONS: BAFFLINGLY OPTIMISTIC

PETE HEAT: HUGE

DANIEL FOXX: VILLAIN

SIÂN DOCKSEYPOLE YOURSELF TOGETHER!

10DOME BURNS THE MUSICAL

WELLER: AGE AGAINST THE MACHINE

JOSH

CHEAT

CROMDALE TUNNEL THE ATTIC 19:15

BUNKER ONE

BESIDE

LOUISE YOUNG: FERAL

CELYA AB: SECOND RODEO

PLEASANCE ONE

PLEASANCE ONE

PLEASANCE ONE

THE GRAND

THE GRAND

BENEATH

PENTLAND THEATRE

THE GREEN

KINGDOME

LENNOX THEATRE

PENTLAND THEATRE

PLEASANCE ABOVE

PLEASANCE ABOVE

PLEASANCE BEYOND

PLEASANCE TWO

PENTLAND THEATRE SPIRIT OF IRELAND

RHYS JAMES: SPILT MILK

ROSIE JONES — TRIPLE THREAT

PLEASANCE ALL AMERICAN NEWCOMER COMEDY GALA

ADAM KAY: UNDOCTOREDTHIS IS GOING TO HURT...MORE

TARTAN RIBBON COMEDY BENEFIT

DARREN HARRIOTTROADMAN

TONY! [THE TONY BLAIR ROCK OPERA]

A MANCHESTER ANTHEM

MYRA DUBOIS: BE WELL

SH!T-FACED SHAKESPEARE

TONY! [THE TONY BLAIR ROCK OPERA]

PENTLAND THEATRE TONY! [THE TONY BLAIR ROCK OPERA]

SEX TALKS

STRING V SPITTA

MATT FORDE: INSIDE NO. 10

ROSIE HOLT: THAT’S POLITAINMENT!

BUNKER TWO

UPSTAIRS

LOMOND THEATRE

THE CELLAR C C C C E E E E C C C C C D C C C C E D C C E C

BABY GRAND

ANDRÉ DE FREITAS: WHAT IF

GRETA TITELMAN’S EXQUISITE LIES

BUFFY REVAMPED

20:20 C

JOSH JONES: GOBSMACKED

JACKDOME

QUEENDOME

10DOME

BUNKER THREE

FORTH

PLEASANCE BELOW

THE ATTIC

BUNKER ONE

LAURA RAMOSO: FRANCES

PATTI HARRISON: MY HUGE TITS HUGE BECAUSE THEY ARE INFECTED NOT FAKE!

GEORGE ZACHAROPOULOS: WONDERLAND

HORATIO GOULD: SWEET PRINCE

SIMON BRODKIN: XAVIER

JOHN TOTHILL: THE LAST LIVING LIBERTINE

ANNABEL MARLOW... IS THIS OKAY??

TAMSYN KELLY: CRYING IN TK MAXX

BESIDE

CROMDALE TUNNEL

PLEASANCE ONE

THE GRAND

THE CELLAR

BUNKER TWO

KINGDOME

BABY GRAND

TRAINSPOTTING LIVE

PLEASANCE TWO COMEDY RESERVE AT THE COURTYARD

COURTNEY PAUROSO: VANESSA 5000

MARK WATSON: SEARCH

SHOWSTOPPER! THE IMPROVISED MUSICAL

DAN JONES: THIS SEEMS AMBITIOUS

TADIWA MAHLUNGE: INHIBITION EXHIBITION

MR & MRS LOVE

MAWAAN: SONGS ABOUT BIRDS (WIP)

ACEDOME

ACEDOME

CABARET BAR

JACKDOME

BENEATH COMEDY RESERVE AT THE DOME

PADDY YOUNG: HUNGRY, HORNY, SCARED

HOW TO LIVE A JELLICLE LIFE: LIFE LESSONS FROM THE 2019 HIT MUSICAL CATS

BAMPOTS

PAUL CHOWDHRY: FAMILY-FRIENDLY COMEDIAN

PLEASANCE TWO

UPSTAIRS

JAZZ EMU: YOU SHOULDN’T HAVE

HUGE DAVIES: WHODUNNIT

ONE

BABY GRAND

MAT FLIPPING SUPER BOWL

JORDAN

FOOD & DRINK

The Pleasance is hosted at the Courtyard and Dome by Edinburgh University Students' Association (EUSA) and the University of Edinburgh.

While we build and programme the theatres, EUSA runs all of the bars and catering, including some of the best food spots in the city. Go to Eusa.link/OurFestivalVenues to help plan your visit, or follow @courtyardanddome on Instagram.

Pleasance is proud to be supported by