Edinburgh-based artists at the 2026 Festivals
Professional Edinburgh-based theatre makers in the 2026 Festivals
Collated in collaboration with EPAD
Edinburgh is home to a fantastic range of theatre artists and producers who live in the city and make work for audiences throughout the year. EPAD is proud to be working with All Edinburgh Theatre to highlight the contribution these artists make to the theatre, dance, physical theatre and storytelling programmes of Edinburgh’s 2026 summer festivals.
We invite you to support the homegrown talent that helps make Edinburgh a vibrant cultural city for 12 months of the year, not just for August.
See the EPAD website for more details about our work: www.epad.org.uk.
So far we have identified 81 productions that are created, performed or produced by Edinburgh’s theatre professionals. We are aware that new work is being added all the time. Please do get in touch if we have missed something out (mail@epad.org.uk).
EPAD is a skills and resource-sharing project that supports Edinburgh’s independent performing artists to thrive throughout the year. Our aim is to make Edinburgh’s performing arts community stronger, better connected and more democratic. Find out more about our work here: www.epad.org.uk.
Listed by the following Categories then alphabetically by show title:
- Theatre & Storytelling
- Children’s Theatre
- Dance
- Cabaret, Spoken Word and Comedy
Click on the show name or “Further details” to go to the relevant ticketing site (opens in a new page).
██ Theatre & Storytelling – 58 to C
58 To Go
Liminal Visions
Greenside @ George Street (Jade Studio) Venue 236
24 – 29 Aug : 12:40 (1 hr)
Ed was a normal guy, at least until his Growing Old Syndrome diagnosis. Determined to achieve a lifetime’s worth of goals in 55 minutes, he’ll live forever or die trying! Mid-life crisis? Who said anything about ‘mid’? Further details.
A Better Memory
Lubna Kerr with Kerr Arts Collective
Pleasance Courtyard (The Green) Venue 33
5 – 30 Aug (Not 25): 18:30 (50 m)
After her husband’s death, Eleanor switches on his AI replica for comfort, only to discover memories that don’t match her own. A tender, darkly funny drama about grief, secrets and choosing to live your life. Further details.
A Giggle With The Gaggle
Balancing Act Theatre
theSpace on the Mile (Space 3) Venue 39
24 – 29 Aug : 12:35 (1 hr)
A secret affair, a mid-twenties crisis and imagining conversations with the dead. Three friends go on an honest, heartfelt and hilarious journey of grief and loss finding queer joy and chosen family. Further details.
About a Bogle
Scotch Bonnet Productions
The Speakeasy at The Royal Scots Club (The Speakeasy) Venue 241a
10 – 19 Aug : 14:30 (1 hr)
About a Bogle blends myth, music, and mischief into a stoater of a show. On a quiet Scottish isle, two musicians set off for the island festival. The Bogle, a mischievous shapeshifter, has other plans. Further details.
Aderyn / Bird
Harebell Tellers
Scottish Storytelling Centre (George Mackay Brown Library) Venue 30
18 – 22 Aug : 16:30 (1 hr 50 m)
Atop a far-off mountain, birds are gathering, stories are stirring. Join Scottish and Welsh traditional storytellers Ailsa Dixon and Ffion Phillips as they weave folk music, language and story across isles and between worlds. Further details.
After Party
Traverse Theatre in co-production with Paines Plough and Belgrade Theatre
Traverse Theatre (Traverse 1) Venue 15
6 – 30 Aug (Not Fri 7, Mons): Various times (1 hr)
Biting wit, theatrical flair and unexpected tenderness, After Party brings a family together for one unforgettable night. As tensions rise and truths emerge, it asks what we owe each other and how we choose to live, and leave. Further details.
An American Love Letter to Edinburgh
Rick Conte
Scottish Storytelling Centre (Netherbow Theatre) Venue 30
22 – 30 Aug (22, 24, 26, 29 30 only): 13:00 (55 m)
Or, Benjamin Franklin’s Scottish Enlightenment. The story of Edinburgh’s influence on a nation, and of how a native of that nation found a home here centuries later. Further details.
Arcana
Fay Guiffo
Assembly Roxy (Central) Venue 139
17 – 31 Aug (Not 24): 10:00 (1 hr)
A poetic, music-led journey about finding your voice. Following a young composer’s quest for freedom, it blends violin, African and Western musical traditions, movement, and multilingual storytelling into an immersive, visually rich experience exploring identity, courage and self-expression. MadeInScotlandShowcase.com Further details.
BearGirl
Hey Thanks! Theatre Collective
Assembly Roxy (Roxyboxy) Venue 139
5 – 31 Aug (Not 17, 24): 16:20 (50 m)
A grief-stricken widow struggles to cope with her husband’s death and finds comfort by donning a bear costume. But when the voice of her love begins to haunt her, so begins her spiral of shame and regret. Further details.
Bombs Over Byker
Lucas English
Greenside @ Riddles Court (Clover Studio) Venue 16
7 – 29 Aug (not 16, 23): 14:55 (50 m)
When River’s cosy affluence is shattered, he enlists two disorderly youngsters to plot increasingly riotous acts in search of a higher truth. But will this unlikely cohort expose the false prophets who seek to determine their fate? Further details.
Bull / Fight
Mythography Collective with Macrobert Arts Centre
Summerhall (Former Womens Locker Room) Venue 26
6 – 31 Aug (Not 17, 24): 11:30 (1 hr 10 m)
Spain, 1936. The poet Lorca is shot. A travelling theatre scours white-washed villages for a lost poet’s beauty as civil war sweeps the stage. Breathless, intimate. Further details.
Cathy
Traverse Theatre Company
Traverse Theatre (Traverse 1) Venue 15
7 – 30 Aug (Not Mons): Various times (1 hr)
Eilidh Loan wrote and directed her critically acclaimed first play, Moorcroft, about her dad’s amateur football team. Her new comedy Cathy is inspired by her grandmother, who insisted that Elaine C Smith must play her and so she is. Further details.
██ Theatre & Storytelling – D to K
David William Bryan – In Loyal Company
David William Bryan
Pleasance Courtyard (Beyond) Venue 33
5 – 31 Aug (Not 19): Various times (50 m)
Returning after multiple sell-out runs, In Loyal Company is the incredible true story of missing WWII soldier Arthur Robinson, written and performed by his great-nephew David William Bryan. Further details.
Don’t know? Have a go!
Fast Snail Productions
theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall (Stephenson Theatre) Venue 53
7 – 15 Aug : 16:35 (1 hr)
Where do forgotten memories go? What’s the meaning of life? Why is this so hard to answer? Don’t know? Well lets have a go! Welcome back for one last time to everyone’s favourite quiz show. Further details.
Fake
Snap the Arrow
Gilded Balloon Teviot (The Den) Venue 14
5 – 31 Aug (Not 17): 13:40 (1 hr)
It’s pretty, but is it art? Magician and storyteller Chris Cook weaves a true tale of deception through the lives of an artist, a forger and a magician. Further details.
Forge
Tom Oakes / Brite Theater
Scottish Storytelling Centre (George Mackay Brown Library) Venue 30
8 – 29 Aug (Even dates + 29): 20:00 (50 m)
Multi-instrumentalist Tom Oakes returns with Forge, a new work building on award-nominated The Hearth. Stories of resistance unfold through traditional music, live composition and improvisation, threaded with archive broadcast and new writing by Kolbrún Björt Sigfúsdóttir. Further details.
Fragments
Martin Bearne
Hoots @ The Apex (Hoot 3) Venue 108
7 – 30 Aug (Not 9, 17/18, 24/25): 18:20 (55 m)
Dark humour hides dark secrets. Martin has always tried to deflect things with laughter (he’s even tried to make his therapist laugh). Further details.
Fruit Flies
Fast Snail Productions
theSpace on the Mile (Space 2) Venue 39
24 – 29 Aug : 17:10 (1 hr)
When visiting her old gay best friend, Maddy is introduced to his new friend Steph, and the two are sucked into a bizarre world where they find themselves pitted against each other again, and again, and again… Further details.
Golden Beryl: Special Oblivion
Golden Beryl
Pianodrome at St Oswald’s Centre (Pianodrome) Venue 344
7 – 15 Aug (Not 9, 11): Various times (50 m)
A selection of surreal tales from the Golden Beryl podcast archives, performed with live music and foley. Fragmented monologues, absurd character studies and off-kilter narratives all offering you ‘special oblivion’. As heard on BBC. Further details.
Halfway Home
Deliverance Theatre
theSpace on the Mile (Space 3) Venue 39
17 – 22 Aug : 22:30 (1 hr)
Davie, newly released from prison, moves in with his policeman-hopeful brother, Freddie, and his fiancee Laura, an overworked NHS nurse. Past mistakes resurface and clashing beliefs expose deep family fractures in austerity-hit Scotland. Further details.
Hamlet (an experience)
Brite Theater
Scottish Storytelling Centre (George Mackay Brown Library) Venue 30
7 – 17 Aug : 16:30 (55 m)
Hamlet has the questions. Do you have the answers? In Brite Theater’s award-winning Hamlet (an experience) you will journey through the play together and become immersed in the story like never before. Further details.
Hope This Helps!
Shark Bait Theatre
theSpace @ Venue 45 (Venue 45) Venue 45
17 – 29 Aug (Not 23): 12:40 (50 m)
Five internet addicts visit The Retreat in search of an easy life fix, hoping cucumber peels and trust exercises can buy back their happiness and spontaneity. A new satirical comedy about wellness, digital connection, and touching grass. Further details.
In Her Hand
Surgeons Hall Museum
theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall (Haldane Theatre) Venue 53
24 – 29 Aug : 15:05 (1 hr)
Inspired by real journals and letters from women serving with the Scottish Women’s Hospitals in WWI, we follow an unlikely friendship forged through danger and humour on the Balkan front. Go Home and Sit Still? Aye right! Further details.
Kanpur: 1857
Niall Moorjani in association with Jasmine Cole Productions
Pleasance Courtyard (Above) Venue 33
5 – 16 Aug : 15:25 (1 hr 35 m)
Fringe First-winning sell-out smash-hit returns to the Edinburgh Fringe. Strapped to a cannon, an Indian rebel finds themselves answering to a British officer for the crimes of Kanpur. Based on historical events. Further details.
██ Theatre & Storytelling – M to R
Mayflies
Grid Iron
Brown’s of Leith (Rear Warehouse ((Tower Street Entrance)) Venue 320
7 – 30 Aug (Not Tue): 16:00 (1 hr)
Award-winning Fringe favourites Grid Iron present the world premiere of Mayflies, a site-specific adaptation of Andrew O’Hagan’s best-selling novel. A joyous and heart-breaking elegy to 80s youth, facing mortality in middle-age, and a pledge: go at life differently. MadeInScotlandShowcase.com Further details.
Mohan: A Partition Story
Niall Moorjani in association with Jasmine Cole Productions
Pleasance Courtyard (Above) Venue 33
18 – 31 Aug : 15:25 (1 hr)
Fringe First Award-winning and critically acclaimed storyteller Niall Moorjani presents a heartfelt and beautiful piece which explores their grandfather’s experiences of the Partitioning of India in 1947. Further details.
Morna Burdon: Bonnie Fechters
Morna Burdon
Scottish Storytelling Centre (Netherbow Theatre) Venue 30
12/08/26: 14:45 (1 hr)
A powerful show featuring inspiring stories and songs celebrating courageous women over centuries and continents. Part of A Triptych for Our Times. Further details.
Morna Burdon: Gie’s Peace
Morna Burdon
Scottish Storytelling Centre (Netherbow Theatre) Venue 30
19/08/26: 14:45 (1 hr)
Combining inspirational storytelling with evocative songs of protest to highlight women’s peace activism, Morna creates a moving and timely tribute to the struggle for peace. Part of A Triptych for Our Times. Further details.
Morna Burdon: The Sound of My Own Voice
Morna Burdon
Scottish Storytelling Centre (Netherbow Theatre) Venue 30
26/08/26: 14:45 (1 hr 15 m)
A critically-acclaimed combination of personal and political poetry and song. Thatcher’s children, artificial intelligence, Scots language and the joy of blowing raspberries. Part of A Triptych for Our Times. Further details.
My Oh My, Mr Dream
Melody of Kin
Paradise in The Vault (The Annexe) Venue 29
17 – 30 Aug : 18:25 (55 m)
A dreamer older than stars, lonelier than gods and he has stories to tell. Pick a token: boat, crown or bird. But be gentle – they’re dreaming in his hand. And some of them bite. Further details.
Nosejob
Heads on Crooked
Paradise in Augustines (Studio) Venue 152
17 – 30 Aug (Not Sun 23): 19:10 (1 hr)
A nose. With a dream. Can a nose be a West End star? Can a nose be the hottest girl in the world? Can a nose be human? A reimagination of Gogol’s The Nose for easily distracted times. Further details.
Our Martin in the Background
Mark Kydd
Scottish Storytelling Centre (George Mackay Brown Library) Venue 30
26 – 30 Aug : 16:30 (50 m)
England, 1945. The lives of two strangers are changed forever by a chance meeting at a railway station. But this isn’t Brief Encounter… it’s the queer love story Noël Coward didn’t write. . Further details.
Our Town Needs A Nando’s
Hot Mess Productions
theSpace on the Mile (Space 1) Venue 39
7 – 15 Aug : 14:30 (1 hr)
School is a nightmare and boys are infuriating. In a town that expects nothing of you, five girls collide as they question friendship, sexuality and why everything they’re taught always ends up being about men. Further details.
Platformed
Active Inquiry’s Flashback Theatre Company
Out of the Blue Drill Hall () Venue 195
12 – 14 Aug : 18:30 (1 hr)
The warehouse is normally a quiet place where the statues of Edinburgh can rest. But the arrival of a new tenant and some shady characters means that The Great Lafayette, Sherlock Holmes, Cowboy Joe and others can no longer stay in their sculpted poses. They must confront the question of who best represents Edinburgh whilst protecting their secret at all costs. Further details.
Prophets
Jack MacGregor
Assembly Roxy (Roxyboxy) Venue 139
5 – 31 Aug Not 12, 17, 24): 17:45 (1 hr 30 m)
When a Scottish researcher travels to a remote British Overseas Territory in the South Pacific Ocean, she finds its inhabitants under the control of a growing secretive cult. Assembly ART Award 2026 winner from Fringe First-winning playwright Jack MacGregor. Further details.
██ Theatre & Storytelling – S to Y
Sacred Arts Festival Drama at St John’s Princes Street: Doctor Faustus
Michael Daviot, Susan Chynoweth, Tim Barrow, Janet de Vigne
St John’s Church (Main Church) Venue 127
18 – 19 Aug (19:30 Tue; 14:30 Wed): Various times (1 hr)
Marlowe’s tragedy about a doctor who makes a pact with the devil. Featuring Michael Daviot as Faust, Susan Chynoweth as Mephisto, Tim Barrow as Wagner. Director Janet de Vigne. Further details.
Selkie: Past, Present, Future
Niall Moorjani / Ailsa Dixon
Scottish Storytelling Centre (Netherbow Theatre) Venue 30
19 – 30 Aug : 18:40 (50 m)
Niall Moorjani (Fringe First winner) and Ailsa Dixon present an evocative and moving exploration of what it is to be human. Storytelling is lyrically synthesised with live music and Orcadian folk song. Further details.
Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of the Innsmouth Crown
Innsmouth Crown Productions
theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall (Theatre 3) Venue 53
24 – 29 Aug : 19:05 (50 m)
Whilst clearing out her mother’s belongings from her care home, Kelly discovers a hidden family secret. Her grandfather was Dr John Watson. As she digs further, Kelly uncovers the truth of the untold final case of Sherlock Holmes: a case involving an otherworldly crown of mysterious origin, and the abandoned American coastal town of Innsmouth. Further details.
Shinjuku
Production Lines
Greenside @ George Street (Olive Studio) Venue 236
7 – 15 Aug : 19:35 (1 hr)
Abby’s juggling three jobs. When her son’s school summons her, everything implodes. She thinks her son’s an ally, they think he’s an incel. Meanwhile, the headteacher has his own agenda. Unyielding exploration of women’s choices in a man’s world. Further details.
Ships
Written by Mark Forrest / Chapter Three Productions Limited
Leith Arches (Ground Level ) Venue 324
11 – 15 Aug : Various times (1 hr)
A raw, darkly funny drama set in a working-class port town. Connor, a troubled merchant seaman, meets Alex, a sharp-tongued barmaid, as love, trauma, addiction and class collide in a story about survival and second chances. Further details.
SLAYERS by Corinne Salisbury
RUPTURE
Assembly George Square Studios (Studio Five) Venue 17
18 – 30 Aug : 12:15 (50 m)
A mother and daughter take up boxing; stoke their rage against the Manosphere; plot their revenge. How can we arm our daughters against the world? And what happens when our anger makes us go too far? Further details.
SQUAT!
Balancing Act Theatre Presents SQUAT!
theSpace on the Mile (Space 3) Venue 39
24 – 29 Aug : 22:30 (1 hr)
Join the Squat as they stumble through loss with too much alcohol, too many bad decisions, and absolutely no filter. SQUAT! is a dark comedy about masculine vulnerability, friendship and the f*cking weird ways men say ‘I love you’! Further details.
Steak Out
Ruaraidh Murray
Gilded Balloon Teviot (Billiard Room) Venue 14
5 – 31 Aug (Not 17, 24): 19:00 (1 hr 20 m)
Two nights before Christmas, an Edinburgh granny and her family rob a butcher’s shop of all its best cuts. Can they get away with the meat theft of the century? Quentin Tarantino meets Irvine Welsh. Further details.
Supposing:
Traverse Theatre Company
Traverse Theatre (Traverse 2) Venue 15
6 – 30 Aug (Not Mons): Various times (30 m)
A curse has fallen on Sally’s house. Unexpected, unwanted and hard to shake. Worst of all, no one believes her. As certainty begins to blur, Sally must decide whether to trust what she sees, and what it might cost. Further details.
The Ballad of Jack and Stacey
Bethany Christian Trust: Creative Expressions
Canonmills Church (Church Hall) Venue 42
11 – 27 Aug (11, 13, 15, 25, 27 only): 12:30 (1 hr)
Jack’s always gone his own path, that’s why Stacey has a soft spot for him. But after he lands a jail sentence, what will the future hold? Further details.
The Crossing
Second Splinter Theatre Company
PBH’s Free Fringe @ Liquid Room (Liquid Room Studio) Venue 276
30 Aug : 15:00 (45 m)
Written and performed by Ben Igoe. Alfred boards the most famous liner of its day in a bid to escape his past but a maritime tragedy that will reverberate around the world threatens to destroy his future. Further details.
The Faustus Project
Half Trick Theatre in association with Benjamin Alborough
Underbelly, Cowgate (Belly Laugh) Venue 61
17 – 30 Aug : 21:05 (1 hr)
An actor makes a deal with the devil. This new version of Christopher Marlowe’s Doctor Faustus features a rotating cast of brave guest performers taking on the challenges of a devilish ensemble. One problem… they’ve never rehearsed with the rest of the cast. The Faustus Project is funny, a little dangerous and an actor’s worst nightmare. With a fresh victim every night, this will be the ultimate theatrical torture. Funny, dangerous, devilish. Further details.
The Flyting
Production cancelled.
The Ostrich Principle
Kirsten Milliken / David Hughes
Scottish Storytelling Centre (George Mackay Brown Library) Venue 30
11 – 23 Aug (Not 12, 14, 16, 22): 18:15 (50 m)
The greatest stories have always opened our eyes, pricked our ears and loosened our tongues; even when chaos makes us want to bury our heads. Myths, legends and folk songs rally in this rousing call to arms. Further details.
The Poetical Life of Philomena McGuinness
Moon Rabbit Theatre
theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall (Theatre 3) Venue 53
7 – 29 Aug (Not 16, 23): Various times (1 hr)
A poignant and funny solo play, infused with poetry and inspired by the true stories of Irish nurses in WWII. Further details.
The Séance Starter Kit™
Get Tae Collective
The Speakeasy at The Royal Scots Club (The Speakeasy) Venue 241a
17 – 30 Aug (Not 22): 21:30 (50 m)
Welcome to a failing late-night TV infomercial. Smiles are fixed, deals are desperate and shipping is included. A live horror-comedy where salesmanship, belief and the supernatural collide – because the show must go on. Further details.
The Skarsgård Effect
Ellen Eklund
theSpace @ Niddry St (Studio) Venue 9
20 – 25 Aug : 17:05 (55 m)
Three sisters. One lie. What’s the worst that could happen? Follow the adventures of three ordinary girls as they stumble headfirst into the disorderly world of fame, and transform themselves from nobodies to global superstars. Further details.
The Tale of the Original Jekyll and Hyde (Told by a Mad Hatter from Stockport)
Tall History Tales
Greenside @ Riddles Court (Willow Studio) Venue 16
7 – 29 Aug (Not 16, 23): 14:00 (1 hr 20 m)
By day Deacon Brodie was a respectable cabinetmaker. By night a masked burglar. Stanley is neither, but somehow gets roped into his shenanigans and escapades. Further details.
Thunderstruck
David Colvin
Scottish Storytelling Centre (Netherbow Theatre) Venue 30
7 – 18 Aug : 18:40 (1 hr)
The tragic, comic, epic tale of the greatest bagpiper that ever lived, who rocked tradition, flew beyond the summit of his art and changed Scottish music forever. Whatever notions you have of bagpipes, leave them at the door. Further details.
Transmission
Nelly Kelly and Sanctuary Queer Arts
Summerhall (Anatomy Lecture Theatre) Venue 26
18 – 23 Aug (Not 20): 19:15 (50 m)
Hilarious, curious and deeply human, Transmission is a darkly comedic and tender hearted performance by playwright and drag artist Nelly Kelly, who playfully questions how Scotland has become fertile ground for the anti-trans movement. MadeInScotlandShowcase.com Further details.
Two Halves
Muddrag Productions
theSpaceTriplex (Studio) Venue 38
7 – 22 Aug (Not 16): 18:05 (1 hr)
Sean is an ageing professional rugby player. When he meets US soccer star Sophie, they begin an unlikely romance. Can their relationship survive the pressures of elite sport? Love is tested in this tense and explosive drama. Further details.
Waiting for Wonka
Half Trick Theatre
Gilded Balloon Patter House (Dram) Venue 24
5 – 16 Aug : 11:40 (50 m)
Fifteen years after the competition that ruined their lives, Veruca, Augustus, Violet, Mike (and their new landlord Charlie) must face their childhood trauma and come to terms with what happened on that fabled chocolate factory tour. Further details.
We Are All Florida Man
Lubna Kerr and Kerr Arts Collective
theSpace @ Niddry St (Lower Theatre) Venue 9
24 – 29 Aug : 14:00 (55 m)
An absurdist comedy that invites you to witness a meeting of a support group of ‘Florida men’. Get to know the kooky cast of characters, male and female, and hear their funny and unbelievable stories. Further details.
We Have a Dream
Fast Snail Productions
theSpace @ Symposium Hall (Annexe) Venue 43
7 – 15 Aug : 19:20 (1 hr)
Four pals follow Scotland across the Euros, hauling flags, hangovers and hidden truths. Mishaps, defeats and lost tickets spark drunken honesty, proving the toughest match isn’t on the pitch but between themselves after the final whistle. Further details.
We Will Hear The Angels
Magnetic North
Summerhall (Dissection Room) Venue 26
6 – 30 Aug (Not 12, 17, 24): 16:30 (50 m)
A poignant and uplifting celebration of the power of melancholy music. Performed by five actor-musicians, including the music of Hank Williams, Orange Juice, Etta James and more. Further details.
Witches Corner
Encapulus Productions
theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall (Stephenson Theatre) Venue 53
17 – 22 Aug : 19:45 (50 m)
Written by Eilidh Smith with songs composed by Rona Johnston. Explores the ongoing fear of feminine power, the misogynistic roots of the witch trials and asks the question – are women still on trial today? Further details.
You Talkin’ to Us?
Authentically False Productions
theSpace on the Mile (Space 1) Venue 39
7 – 15 Aug : 18:45 (45 m)
Three vaguely incompetent gangsters decide to unionise against their tyrannical boss. With the help of an unemployed lawyer, the fight begins to bring about a more stable work environment despite no one knowing what that means. Further details.
██ Children’s Theatre
A Clown’s Lullaby
Crested Fools
Rotunda Theatre (Pip) Venue 65
7 – 18 Aug: 14:00 (1 hr)
Tired of the news? Need a break? Become a clown! All of modern life’s problems seem silly when you don the red nose. From the makers of The Rotting Hart. Further details.
Anatomy of the Piano (for beginners)
Will Pickvance
Pianodrome at St Oswald’s Centre (Pianodrome) Venue 344
9 – 30 Aug: 11:00 (50 m)
A boy asks for a spaceship but gets a piano. The award-winning show of playful piano dissection, virtuosity and storytelling, featuring Bach’s wig, Beethoven’s moods and jamming with Fats Waller. Further details.
Boys Don’t Dance
Marc Brew Company
Assembly @ Dance Base (DB1) Venue 22a
7 – 23 Aug (Not Mons): 13:15 (1 hr)
Boys Don’t Dance is a poignant dance theatre show by acclaimed disabled artist Marc Brew, reflecting on his lifelong journey defying societal expectations to embrace his love for dance. Combining movement with BMX and wheels, storytelling, lighting and an uplifting 80s soundtrack – alongside visual projections and animation, creating an immersive experience for audiences. Further details.
Brrr
Haley Earlam
Nicolson Square Venues (Great Hall) Venue 209a
18 – 22 Aug: 10:30 & 13:00 (1 hr)
Brrr is a multi-sensory installation and dance performance for young audiences with complex needs aged 10-18. Set within an inflatable dome, Brrr is an immersive exploration of winter featuring dance, sound, video and lots and lots of snow! Created in collaboration with young people, the performance is tailored to meet the needs of each audience member to engage in their own way and at their own pace. The performance is suitable for those with PMLD, Autistic and neurodivergent individuals, and wheelchair users or other mobility aid users. Limited capacity of 8 young people plus accompanying adults. MadeInScotlandShowcase.com Further details.
Dragon Babies (for ages 0- 1 year)
Dragon Song Productions
LifeCare Centre, Venue 524
3-29 August (Not 17-20, 24 – 27): 11:30 (45 m)
The story follows the tale of Bertie the Moon Dragon, who falls asleep and forgets to wake the Moon. With the help of eight majestic owls, a larger-than-life unicorn, and two comical frogs, Bertie embarks on a whimsical adventure to find the Moon and lift it back into the sky before it’s too late. Featuring handcrafted puppets and original songs, this Dragon Babies offers a gentle introduction into the magic of live theatre. Age suitability: 0-1 year Further details.
Dragon Tales (for ages 1-6 years)
Dragon Song Productions
LifeCare Centre, Venue 524
3-30 Aug (Not 17-20, 24 – 27): 10:00 ( not Sun); Sun: 14:00, 15:30. (55 m)
When the Librarian discovers a chapter from her book has gone missing, she embarks on a journey to solve the mystery, seeking advice from two sister Kelpies, a clever Fox and an outrageous Octopus. Dragon Tales is a heartwarming theatrical piece for preschool children, featuring puppetry and original songs by Edinburgh based pianist and composer, Jon Beales. The production explores identity, reminding its young audiences that we all have the power to choose who we want to be. Age suitability: 1-6 year Further details.
Float
Starcatchers
Pleasance at EICC (Cromdale Theatre) Venue 150b
9 – 22 Aug (not Mon: 11:30 (Suns), 13:00 (not Sun) (3 hrs)
A beautiful, calm, immersive world designed especially for babies from birth to 12 months old and their grown-ups. Float invites you to relax with your baby and enjoy a gently interactive performance inspired by the healing powers of water. You and your baby are free to explore, engage with the performers or unwind in Float’s tranquil space. Float is a three-hour durational performance designed to relieve the pressure of time. Your ticket allows you to come and go during this time to suit the needs of you and your baby. MadeInScotlandShowcase.com. Further details.
Singing Willows and The Magical Bed
Singing Willows
Scottish Storytelling Centre (Netherbow Theatre) Venue 30
22/23, 28/30 Aug : 11:00 (1 hr 15 m)
When a young girl moves to a new home, her extraordinary bed comes alive and carries her through dreamy worlds of music, play and imagination. Together they discover friendship, courage and the joys of growing up. With playful audience participation, original songs, enchanting visuals and multilingual storytelling with integrated BSL, the audience are invited to dream, laugh and explore in this wonderful musical adventure. Ideal for ages 5+ and their grown-ups, but open to all. Further details.
The Small Bright Things
Flat 4 Collective / Alexandra Jorg
PBH’s Free Fringe @ Central Youth Hostel (Conference Room) Venue 142
15 – 21 Aug: 11:05; 16 – 19 Aug: 12:15 (45 m)
A gentle immersive sensory theatre experience for babies aged 0–3 and their grown-ups. Two Keepers awaken a magical forest through light, puppetry, shadow theatre and music, inviting little ones to help uncover its hidden secrets before exploring an immersive woodland installation together. 30 mins followed by a 15 min stay and play. Further details.
The Truth About Trees
Apropos Theatre
Assembly George Square (The Box) Venue 8
6 – 30 Aug: 10:30 (1hr)
When Alfie’s Grandpa reveals that paper, if made correctly, can tell the story of the tree it came from, Alfie isn’t sure whether to believe him. Once he starts to listen closely, Alfie realises that he is the only one listening. He must spring into action to save the trees from being chopped down. Told using actors, puppets and shadows, The Truth About Trees is a heartwarming story about nature, stories and standing up for what you believe in. Further details.
Tongue Twister
Greg Sinclair and Scottish Theatre Producers
Pleasance at EICC (Cromdale Theatre) Venue 150b
8 – 22 Aug (Not 9, 16): 11:30 (1 hr)
One man’s attempt to say tongue twisters in as many different languages as possible. Whilst also trying to dance. And make music. And do all the costume changes without leaving the stage. Humorous, colourful, rhythmical and odd, Tongue Twister is a celebration of the musical beauty of language. Further details.
██ Dance, Physical Theatre & Circus
2FLAMENCO
TUFLAMENCO
Argyle Cellar Bar (Cellar Bar) Venue 293
7 – 9, 15, 18, 21/22, 25 – 27, 29/30 Aug: 21:00 (55 m)
Following three years of acclaim, 2FLAMENCO returns with a reinvented Flamenco show. Blending passion, humour and mastery, they deliver an intimate journey through Flamenco’s origins and future – a vibrant celebration of music, dance and soul. Genuine and passionate. Further details.
Maiden | Mother | Whore
Theiya Arts
Assembly @ Dance Base (DB1) Venue 22a
18 – 30 Aug (Not 24/25): 17:30 (1 hr)
An interdisciplinary mixed-media performance blending South Asian classical-contemporary dance, interactive projection, spoken word and live audience encounter. Created by Theiya Arts in collaboration with academics from Centre for Biomedicine, Self and Society at University of Edinburgh, the work explores gender, power and resistance through a transnational intersectional feminist lens Further details.
More Tales From Your Queer Elder
Lucia August/Everybody Can Dance
Greenside @ George Street (Olive Studio) Venue 236
7 – 22 Aug (Mon, Wed, Fri/Sat only): 16:06 (2 hrs)
70+-year-old plus-sized lesbian shares heartfelt storytelling through captivating choreography, inspiring audiences of all ages to break free from limitations and embrace their best selves in a unique, intimate show based on decades of queer living, both entertaining and deeply moving. The production features an exciting world premiere alongside timeless gems. Further details.
PRIME: We Are
PRIME
Assembly @ Dance Base (DB1) Venue 22a
6 – 9 Aug: 14:40 (1 hr)
Who are we when we’re together? When we’re alone? When we fight for what we believe in? Dance Base’s in-house company for dancers over 60, PRIME explores the ways in which we can support each other to keep going, fighting and overcoming obstacles and also when we choose to surrender and accept. We Are premiers new work from recently appointed Artistic Director Kally Lloyd-Jones and guest choreographer Malcolm Sutherland. Further details.
Space In Between
Cosmic Dance
Assembly @ Dance Base (DB3) Venue 22a
9 – 16 Aug (Not Mon): 14:30 (50 mins)
A compelling South Asian dance triple bill by Oxana Banshikova, Kirsten Newell and Abirami Eswar, exploring tensions between intention and outcome, self and society. Rooted in Bharatanatyam and Kathak and expanded through contemporary movement, three interconnected works unfold. Time Matters reflects on regret and imagined alternate futures, Duality delves into inner conflict and identity, and Unspoken Alignment examines personal and collective misalignment. Further details.
Tell Me
Sadiq Ali Company
Summerhall (Dissection Room) Venue 26
6 – 31 Aug (Not Mon/Tue): 19:00 (1 hr 5 mins)
Two timelines collide in this bold fusion of dance and circus, offering a fresh perspective on HIV. When Grace receives a diagnosis, she is transported back to the 80s alongside Michael, a gay man navigating a very different reality. Their journeys unfold through striking choreography, Chinese pole and aerial artistry. MadeInScotlandShowcase.com Further details.
██ Cabaret, Spoken Word and Comedy
Kevin Quantum: Invisible Force
KQ Productions
Assembly Rooms (Ballroom) Venue 20
6 – 31 Aug : 18:45 (1 hr 20 m)
Think you know what’s real? You’re closer to the most powerful force in the universe than you realise. Impossible magic & big gasps from a world-class showman, trained by Penn & Teller. Further details.
Loud Poets
I Am Loud CIC
Scottish Storytelling Centre (Netherbow Theatre) Venue 30
13, 20, 27 Aug (Tue only): 20:30 (50 m)
Loud Poets bring their signature fist-thumping, pint-drinking, side-tickling, heart-wrenching fusion of spoken word and live music that thrills poetry lovers and turns sceptics into fans to the Fringe. Catch the Loud Poets – Katie Ailes, Mark Gallie and Kevin Mclean – with music from Jack Hinks and a different guest every show. Further details.
Queer Folks’ Tales
Bona Broadcasting Ltd./Turan Ali
Scottish Storytelling Centre (Netherbow Theatre) Venue 30
12, 19, 26 Aug (Mon only): 20:30 (1 hr)
5-star, award-winning LGBTQ+ storytelling show returns for its fourth Fringe; camper, fruitier and queerer than ever! Host Turan Ali takes time out from his BBC shows to collect international, queer Fringe talent who share hilarious, surprising, moving stories, songs and more. Jaw-dropping insights into LGBTQ+ lives. Further details.
The Cult of Astaroth
Ash Pryce/Noisy Ghost Entertainment
Banshee Labyrinth (Chamber Room) Venue 156
8 – 29 Aug (Not Mon/Tue): 19:20 (1 hr)
Siblings rejoice, for The Grand Duke of Hell, Lord Astaroth, invites you to visit the esoteric realm and join an ancient demonic cult with Edinburgh Horror Festival sell-out magician, Ash Pryce. Take part in a demonic initiation ritual and learn the secrets of Astaroth, in the underground chamber of Scotland’s most haunted pub. Will you save your soul, or be damned to oblivion? Join the occult – praise Asaroth! Further details.
The Secret Room at Lauriston Castle
Edinburgh International Magic Festival
Lauriston Castle Venue 436
7 – 23 Aug (Thur – Sun, not 9, 15): 13.30 or 15.30 (50 m)
Enter secluded Lauriston Castle and travel back in time to a world of clandestine laboratories, hidden passages and secret rooms… Three expert magicians animate the castle’s intriguing past with stories, performances and illusions. Set within stunning grounds overlooking the River Forth, this is one of the most magical experiences at the Fringe. Further details.
You Straights Are F**ked Up!
Bona Broadcasting Ltd./Turan Ali
Just the Tonic, The Caves (The Spare Room) Venue 88
6 – 30 Aug Not 12, 18/19, 26: 22:25 (1 hour)
International hit comedy show, fresh from sell-out shows in Europe and Asia. A hilarious gay takedown of straight sex lives. Self-confessed queer slut, Turan Ali, takes time out from his BBC shows to share alternatives galore, helping straights achieve the sex lives they desire. For LGBTQ+ and straight audiences alike. Further details.
ENDS
