Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026 Review: BIRDS: Alex Hines and Sarah Stafford – The Box at Assembly George Square

"BIRDS," an absurdist dark comedy by Australian duo Alex Hines and Sarah Stafford, features two glamorous middle-aged women who bond at the beach while the world ends around them. With stellar performances, clever dialogue, and a deeper message, the show artfully blends humor with unsettling realities, making it a standout theatrical experience.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026 Review: Come From Away – Ballroom at Assembly Rooms

Captivate Theatre’s revival of Come From Away at the Assembly Rooms is a heartfelt portrayal of the kindness shown by Gander, Newfoundland residents to stranded travelers after 9/11. While the performances are strong, particularly Lucy Pedersen's accent coaching, sound mixing issues detracted from the experience. Overall, it’s a compelling, emotional show.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026 Review: Garry Starr: Classic Penguins – Grand at Pleasance Courtyard

Damien Warren-Smith's 'Classic Penguins,' starring Gary Starr, rejuvenates the Fringe with a comedic spectacle featuring charm, audience interaction, and clever wordplay. Despite initial skepticism over nudity, Starr's talent shines through, creating an engaging, joyful experience appealing to diverse audiences. A true Fringe classic.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026 Review: Don Quixote (is a Very Big Book) – King Dome at Pleasance Dome

Dik Downey's one-man adaptation of Don Quixote, performed at Pleasance Dome, creatively combines puppetry and prop comedy. After donning a suit of armor purchased online, Downey engages with the audience while delivering a humorous retelling of Cervantes' classic. The show promises immense entertainment, even for those unfamiliar with the story.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026 Review: The Woman in the Mirror – Studio at ZOO Southside

The Woman in the Mirror, adapted by Dayna Steele for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, explores the challenging dynamics of caregiving for an aging parent with Alzheimer’s. Combining humor and heartbreak, the two-woman play presents an intimate portrayal of love, loss, and the complex realities faced by unpaid caregivers, showcasing both performers' exceptional talents.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026 Review: Father, Away She Goes- Playground 1 at ZOO Playground

Andrea Coleman, a Brooklyn-based attorney, comedian, and writer, captivates audiences in her show "3 Times I Killed." She shares three intriguing legal cases influenced by advice from a quirky voice she calls 'the Divine.' With her engaging storytelling and relatable anecdotes, Coleman creates an intimate experience. Don't miss this unique performance.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026 Review: 3 Time I Killed – Playground 1 at ZOO Playground

Andrea Coleman, a Brooklyn-based attorney, comedian, and writer, captivates audiences in her show "3 Times I Killed." She shares three intriguing legal cases influenced by advice from a quirky voice she calls 'the Divine.' With her engaging storytelling and relatable anecdotes, Coleman creates an intimate experience. Don't miss this unique performance.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026 Review: I, Claudius – at The Hepburn Suite at The Royal Scots Club

The Strawmoddie Theatre Company's production of "I, Claudius" at The Royal Scots Club is a captivating four and a half-hour exploration of Roman power dynamics, featuring an impressive cast led by Timothy Bond as Claudius. Standout performances include Lucy Hagan-Walker’s Livia and Caitlin Carter’s Caligula, creating an engaging and humorous evening despite some uneven moments.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026 Review: James Trickey: Split – Bunker Two at Pleasance Courtyard

Trickey has real, genuine potential to fiercely balance charming, ribbing stories and observations with bigger-picture, poignant life philosophy. He is very likeable, obviously smart and perceptive. Trickey has the promise of being a seriously powerful comedian who packs out rooms with both laughter and feeling.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026 Review: A Play of Two Halves – Tynecastle 1874 Bar, Tynecastle Stadium

Farrelly delivers a great high-energy performance this year, full of punch lines and current issues which will have you continually laughing out loud—this is one to watch and worth a look. Catch him before the run ends at this Fringe festival at Studio 5 Assembly Festival, Edinburgh.