Sobremesa is an intimate drama about two sisters confronting difficult truths during a heated birthday dinner, addressing themes of sisterhood, memory, and misogyny. The production features original music and encourages dialogue on victim blaming. Set in a restaurant, it invites audiences to reflect on everyday misogynistic behaviors while supporting local charities.
Brendan Scannell's Edinburgh debut, The Abyss, combines stand-up and immersive theatre, reflecting on family dynamics and personal experiences. After a successful Hollywood Fringe run, he aims to engage diverse audiences with dark humor and emotional intensity. The show runs from August 5 to 30 at Venue 24, Gilded Balloon Patter House.
Storyteller Frankie Regalia's show "Spinster" explores the evolving meaning of the word through three Scottish folktales, highlighting women's roles across history. Performed at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, the show aims to inspire audiences to reconnect with traditional crafts and nature while reclaiming the spinster identity.
The 2026 Edinburgh International Festival, led by Nicola Benedetti, centers on American independence's 250th anniversary through cross-disciplinary works exploring freedom and prejudice. Featuring immersive performances across various genres, the festival encourages active audience engagement while tackling contemporary issues like authoritarianism, cultural assimilation, and the opioid crisis, creating a vibrant cultural discourse.
The theatrical production "Capturing the Light," created by Gaelic artist William McTaggart’s great-granddaughter, Elsa McTaggart, explores his life and artistic legacy. This immersive one-woman show combines storytelling, music, and visuals, showcasing McTaggart's influence from 19th-century Scotland to modern times, emphasizing themes of perseverance and family heritage.
Traditional storytellers Kirsten Milliken and David Hughes are presenting "The Ostrich Principle" at the Edinburgh Fringe, using folklore to confront modern injustices. Their performance blends stories and songs to encourage civic participation and critical engagement with narratives in today's society. They aim to inspire audiences to face political apathy directly.
Musical Comedy Award winner Katie Pritchard is set to showcase her whimsical comedy gameshow, "Sir Elton Scone," blending music, humor, and interactive chaos at the Fringe. With unique props and a vibrant creative team, she aims to entertain audiences, evoking joy and leaving them questioning the experience. Expect a delightful romp!
This year's festival showcases a rich array of puppet shows, from heartwarming tales to boundary-pushing comedy. Highlights include "Tiny Planet," exploring the cosmos, and "BTCH EAT DOG," addressing modern womanhood with dark humor. Each performance, unique and immersive, promises unforgettable experiences for audiences of all ages.
Comedian Ali Brice is set to perform a new show at Hoots, focusing on humour and genuine joy. As he reflects on turning 40, Brice emphasizes the importance of crowd interaction and spontaneity in his comedy. His upcoming shows promise a unique experience, running from August 6 to August 31 at Summerhall.
Composer Minyoung Kim’s project PLASTIC merges traditional Korean instruments and vocal traditions with electronic music, exploring human fragility and potential. Performing at the Edinburgh Fringe, she aims to share a unique perspective on Korean culture and music, inviting all audiences to connect through the universal language of sound.
