Month: April 2026

Aldi calls on shoppers to donate pet food in stores this National Pet Month

Aldi is encouraging shoppers in Edinburgh to donate pet food at its in-store community donation points this April to mark National Pet Month, as more families feel the impact of rising costs when caring for pets.

With 86% of pet owners saying the cost of owning a pet has increased, local charities continue to see demand for support, including help with everyday essentials such as pet food.

The supermarket is calling on shoppers across Edinburgh to support their local communities by donating essential items in stores. Donations will be distributed to local charities and community groups through the supermarket’s long-standing partnership with Neighbourly.

Since partnering with Neighbourly in 2019, Aldi has donated the equivalent of more than 50 million meals to good causes across the UK, helping ensure surplus food reaches those who need it most while reducing food waste.

Luke Emery, National Sustainability Director at Aldi UK, said: “Pets are part of the family, but the cost-of-living conversation rarely acknowledges them, when in reality, increasing costs are putting extra pressure on the whole household budget, including everyday essentials – like pet food.

“By making it simple for customers to donate in-store, via our existing partnership with Neighbourly, we hope to support local communities and help ensure families can continue to care for their much-loved pets.”

Steve Butterworth, CEO at Neighbourly, said: “Demand for support remains high for all daily household essentials.

“Aldi’s continued commitment – alongside the generosity of its customers – plays a vital role in supporting local charities and the communities they serve.”

Shoppers can donate pet food and everyday essentials at Aldi’s in-store community donation points, where items are distributed to local charities and community groups through its partnership with Neighbourly. Donation points are available in stores nationwide throughout the year, making it easy for customers to support their local communities whenever they shop.

Supporting communities is a core part of Aldi’s approach, with a range of initiatives in place to help ensure surplus food reaches those who need it most.

Following a successful pilot across three Regional Distribution Centres, the supermarket will provide a further 1.2 million meals to families in need this year through its partnership with The Bread and Butter Thing, as the initiative rolls out nationwide.

Aldi also works with Company Shop Group to redistribute surplus stock from its Regional Distribution Centres, helping to ensure that products which cannot be sold in stores are still put to good use.

Young people are leaving the UK earlier than ever as prospects fall

 The Great Gen Z Exodus report by The TEFL Academy reveals that Britons are no longer waiting until their 30s to leave, they’re doing it in their 20s, in record numbers, as economic pressure and shifting career priorities reshape life decisions.

In June 2025, departures among those aged 20–29 reached 130,000–140,000, significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels of around 92,000–95,000 in 2018, while emigration among those in their early 30s has fallen from around 78,000–81,000 in 2018  to 55,000–65,000 in 2025 over the same period (ONS).

Together, this points to a clear shift towards earlier, opportunity-driven migration, with young professionals choosing to build their futures abroad sooner rather than later. This marks a fundamental shift in when Britons choose to leave the UK, with migration decisions happening earlier in life than ever before.

The findings draw on a new survey of 4,000 Gen Z and young Millennials, alongside national migration statistics, labour market data and international mobility research. Together, the evidence points to a structural shift in how young Britons define success, stability and opportunity, with international mobility increasingly seen as a necessary pathway to achieving them.

The findings form part of The Great Gen Z Exodus and Young Millennials report, conducted by The TEFL Academy in March 2026, which combines official UK migration statistics with a survey of 422 Gen Z and young Millennial adults aged 18–34 exploring international work opportunities.

The research provides insight into why Britain’s young workforce is increasingly looking abroad for employment, revealing a growing confidence gap in long-term prospects at home.

For many respondents, international mobility is viewed as a strategic way to build stable careers and improve quality of life, with teaching English abroad emerging as one of the most accessible pathways for graduates and young professionals seeking global work experience.           

Record Youth Exodus from the UK  

Official migration data shows that the rise in young Britons leaving the UK is not a sudden spike, but a clear post-pandemic acceleration driven by shifting economic realities and changing career priorities. Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) Long-Term International Migration series highlights how youth emigration has evolved over time. 

Before the pandemic, emigration among young adults was relatively stable. In 2019, around 176,000 Britons aged 20–39 left the UK, reflecting a steady flow of young professionals seeking opportunities abroad (ONS LTIM 2019). During the pandemic, however, global movement temporarily stalled.

In 2020, the number of young people leaving dropped sharply to around 115,000, as border closures and uncertainty forced many to delay or abandon plans to move overseas (ONS LTIM 2020). 

The post-pandemic rebound has been both rapid and sustained. By 2022, pent-up demand was released, with approximately 200,000 young adults emigrating in a single year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and signalling a structural shift rather than a temporary fluctuation (ONS LTIM 2022). 

Since then, the trend has continued upward, but with a notable generational shift. By the year to June 2025, Gen Z emigration reached its highest level on record, with an estimated 130,000-140,000 leaving the UK, while young Millennial departures declined to around 55,000-65,000. This marks a clear transition, with Gen Z now driving the majority of youth emigration (ONS YE June 2025). 

Overall, around 195,000 Britons under the age of 35 left the UK in the past year, meaning 76% of all British emigrants are now young adults, according to analysis from the Migration Observatory at the University of Oxford. This equates to hundreds of young professionals leaving the country each day during their most economically productive years. 

Taken together, the data points to a post-pandemic inflection point, where delayed mobility has evolved into a longer-term behavioural shift, with Gen Z leading a new wave of global, opportunity-driven migration.

A Generation Under Economic Pressure

Survey responses from The TEFL Academy’s research reveal the economic pressures shaping these decisions. Among respondents aged 18–34, more than 86% agreed that UK wages do not reflect the cost of living, while around 79% said they feel constant financial pressure living in the UK. Many also reported that it has become increasingly difficult to “get ahead”, with respondents rating the impact of cost-of-living pressures on their ability to progress at 4.29 out of 5 on average.

Despite strong personal ambition, confidence in the UK’s long-term economic outlook appears weak. Respondents rated their optimism about their long-term future in the country at an average of 2.44 out of 5, suggesting widespread uncertainty about the prospects available to young professionals.

These perceptions mirror wider national research. According to the British Council, 72% of UK adults aged 18–30 say they would consider living and working abroad, while 63% believe their standard of living is worse than that of their parents’ generation. Housing insecurity compounds the problem: polling from the Adam Smith Institute shows that 65% of young people expect housing affordability to worsen, while around half say most people their age struggle to make ends meet.

Separate research from Currencies Direct suggests the trend may accelerate further, with 38% of people aged 25–34 and 36% of those aged 18–24 already considering leaving the UK to live or work abroad.

High Interest in International Mobility Among Prospective TEFL Teachers

Survey responses from individuals exploring TEFL qualifications highlight how strongly international mobility features in the career planning of people already interested in working abroad.

Among respondents aged 18–34:

  • 33% said they have already moved abroad
  • 26% said they are actively planning to move
  • 30% said they are seriously considering relocating
  • 11% said they are not currently planning to leave the UK

While the survey reflects individuals already interested in international work opportunities, the findings illustrate how teaching English abroad is increasingly viewed as a practical pathway for young professionals seeking global experience and career mobility.

What Young People Are Seeking Abroad

For many respondents, leaving the UK is less about escape and more about strategic life planning. Among those who had already moved abroad, the most commonly cited motivation was improving overall quality of life, which received an average rating of 4.45 out of 5. Expectations of better work-life balance also ranked highly, with an average rating of 4.03 out of 5.

Many participants also viewed international mobility as a long-term career strategy rather than a short-term decision. Respondents rated the idea that moving abroad is a strategic choice rather than an emotional one at 3.47 out of 5, while 54% agreed that staying in the UK could hold back their long-term potential.

The research also points to a broader generational shift in career mindset. Respondents rated the importance of developing global skills at 3.93 out of 5, while attitudes toward traditional career stability appear to be changing, with many indicating that the idea of a lifelong job in the UK holds less relevance for their generation.

Where Young Britons Are Going

Destination trends suggest young professionals are targeting regions that offer clearer economic and lifestyle advantages.

Among respondents actively considering relocating abroad:

  • 47% identified Asia as their preferred destination, attracted by lower living costs and strong demand for English teachers in countries such as Thailand, Vietnam and South Korea.
  • 26% were considering Europe, particularly destinations such as Spain and Portugal that combine cultural proximity with lifestyle appeal.
  • 17% cited Australia or New Zealand, often drawn by higher wages and working holiday opportunities.
  • Smaller shares pointed to the Middle East (6%), where tax-free salaries and rapid career progression are appealing, and Africa (4%), often driven by heritage connections or lifestyle motivation.   

For many graduates, teaching English abroad represents one of the most accessible international career pathways. TEFL qualifications can be completed online and provide access to teaching opportunities across Asia, Europe and Latin America, allowing young professionals to gain international experience while earning an income.

Top Destinations for Young Professionals

Respondents exploring relocation indicated preferred regions:

  • Asia (47%) – Lower living costs, strong demand for English teachers in countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, and South Korea.
  • Europe (26%) – Countries like Spain and Portugal offer cultural familiarity and lifestyle appeal.
  • Australia/New Zealand (17%) – Higher wages and working holiday opportunities.
  • Middle East (6%) – Tax-free salaries and rapid career progression.
  • Africa (4%) – Driven by heritage connections and lifestyle motivations.

The Career Impact of Going Global

Broader labour market research suggests that international mobility can have long-term career benefits. Studies across global labour markets show that professionals who gain international work experience often experience faster career progression, stronger cross-cultural skills and higher long-term earning potential.

As a result, for many young professionals, the decision to move abroad is increasingly viewed as an investment in their future career trajectory rather than a temporary lifestyle choice.

“Young Britons aren’t running away from the UK, they’re running toward opportunity,” said Rhyan O’Sullivan, Managing Director at The TEFL Academy. “For many graduates, teaching English abroad offers a practical way to gain international experience, improve quality of life and build global careers.”

A Generational Turning Point

With an estimated 5.5 million British citizens already living abroad, The TEFL Academy’s research suggests that younger generations are redefining success as the ability to build a stable, fulfilling life wherever opportunity exists, rather than being tied to one country.

Taken together, the evidence suggests that international mobility is becoming an increasingly common part of career planning for younger generations.

While individual motivations vary, from cost-of-living pressures to career acceleration, the broader pattern signals a generational recalibration of where young people believe their futures can realistically be built.

For the full report, visit The Great Gen Z Exodus

Festival Commission celebrates the work of 16th century Scots Poet and “Scottish Sappho” Marie Maitland

Monday 4 May, 8.15pm, Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh

This year’s Edinburgh Tradfest commission A’ Chiad Litir (The First Letter), is a tribute to the life of Scots 16th-century poet Marie Maitland, popularised in recent years as the “Scottish Sappho”.

Presented by folk singer, songwriter and composer Josie Duncan and a specially formed band, it will celebrate Marie’s powerful lesbian love poetry through new music and songs, reflecting on her life, her relationships and the world she lived in, whilst also challenging the notion that queerness could ever be considered ‘modern’. 

Marie Maitland was a 16th century Scottish poet born into a wealthy and influential family in East Lothian. She was a noblewoman and the daughter of Sir Richard Maitland of Lethington, a prominent Scottish statesman, judge and poet. When Marie’s father lost his sight, Marie acted as his scribe and began writing her own verse. 

For this new music commission Josie, who works both in English and Scots Gaelic, has written a variety of new songs and instrumental tracks inspired by Marie Maitland’s life and poetry. These include several composed in the style of a ‘waulking’ song, a type of singing that was traditionally performed by women while fulling newly woven tweed cloth usually in the Hebrides.

In addition, historian Ashley Douglas, who has written extensively on Marie Maitland and brought her work to light, will read a verse known as Poem 49 from a manuscript created by Marie.

This powerful nine-stanza poem is one of the very earliest examples of lesbian verse in any language in Europe since Sappho herself (620-570 BC). In it, Marie speaks openly and passionately of her love for another woman, even stating her desire for the two women to be married. In the final stanzas, she reluctantly accepts the impossibility of their formal union, but nonetheless vows her ever-lasting devotion. 

Speaking about the commission, singer songwriter Josie Duncan said: “Marie Maitland’s poetry is a rare and powerful testament to queer love in 16th-century Scotland. Through this music, I hope to amplify her passionate, brave and vulnerable voice and celebrate a story that still resonates deeply today.

“I felt an immediate emotional connection to her work. Marie, like Sappho, wanted to be remembered and she is because of Ashley Douglas, who I knew had to be part of this show.

“It’s an honour to have her work to be inspired by so many years later. Work like this challenges the idea that queer love could ever be considered ‘modern’.” 

Historian and author Ashley Douglas said: “Women who love women have always existed – and remarkable women like Marie Maitland, who bequeathed us her love story, in her own hand, left us the records that prove it.

“When those stories are recovered from the margins, they have the power to validate and inspire the women who love women of today. I’m overjoyed that Marie’s story has so inspired Josie to create such beautiful music and song, and I’m so excited to work with her in continuing the legacy of Scotland’s sixteenth-century Sappho.” 

Jane-Ann Purdy, co-producer of Edinburgh Tradfest said: “Through our connections with Bogha-Frois (Queer Voices in Folk), Edinburgh Tradfest has always been an ally to LGBTQ+ artists, so Josie’s suggestion for a show about Marie Maitland really appealed to us.

“It is a fascinating subject, and is proof-positive that queerness was not invented in the 21st century. Working with Josie on this special commission has been an enlightening and inspiring experience, and I am really looking forward to seeing the finished show on Monday 4 May.” 

About Josie Duncan 

Josie Duncan is an award-winning singer, songwriter and composer from the Outer Hebridean Isle of Lewis. In 2017, she was awarded the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award, and in 2021 her acclaimed New Voices commission for Celtic Connections, showcased her versatility as a composer and performer, and led to her debut album As the Moonlight Melts a collection of self-penned songs. 

Josie has performed at major festivals across the UK and beyond, including Celtic Colours (Canada), the National Celtic Festival (Australia), Tønder Festival (Denmark), Sidmouth Folk Festival and the Hebridean Celtic Festival, for which she composed the 2022 Opening Concert commission. Alongside her work as a performer, she is an emerging composer for film and theatre, bringing her distinctive melodic touch and sensitivity to visual storytelling. 

A’ Chiad Litir has been specially commissioned by The Soundhouse Organisation, who programme Edinburgh Tradfest (1-11 May). It will be performed by singer songwriter Josie Duncan (vocals, harp, tenor guitar and effects); Charlotte Printer (bass and vocals), Laura Jane Wilkie (fiddle), Eilidh Rodgers (percussion), Jenny Clifford (guitar), and author and historian Ashley Douglas (spoken word). With special guests: Kisna Panesar (concertina) and Rae MacIver (piano), a Glasgow-based duo sharing a love of Scottish and Irish traditional music, blended with contemporary influences.

Guitar Group’s back at Muirhouse Library

TUESDAYS 3.45 – 4.30pm from 28th APRIL

Guitar group is back at Muirhouse library!

Chris will be running drop-in sessions from Tuesday 28th April 3:45-4:30pm, every Tuesday until the summer break.

Please come along if you want to learn or develop your guitar playing. Guitars will be available to play and borrow or you can bring your own.

Resolution Foundation: Improving the Universal Credit system

This month marks a true milestone for the UK benefits system: the end of the thirteen-year rollout of Universal Credit that has brought together all means-tested working-age benefits.

This moment is an opportunity to consider how the system can be improved

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Scottish parents’ top online searches about their children revealed – with one important topic being overlooked

  • The average Scottish parent turns to online search 3.92 times a week to make sense of their child’s world – from rock obsessions to cardboard box fixations 
  • Yet experts say one crucial topic is being missed – research shows that searches of children’s eye health are strikingly low (6%), despite good vision being vital to children’s development
  • Challenges persist in being able to spot vision problems in children early, with experts warning around 1 in 5 children under 10 are living with a sight condition, meaning up to 1.6 million children across the UK are impacted 

Almost 88% of Scottish parents say they turn to the internet to decode how their child sees the world, with the most obscure and quirky searches revealed. These queries include ‘why do kids say 6 7?’, ‘why do kids eat sponges?’, ‘why do kids like sitting in a box?’ and ‘do kids naturally hate vegetables?’. 

A massive 79% of parents in Scotland struggle to understand their child’s weird and wonderful world, according to the research. However, the eye care experts at Specsavers, who commissioned the study, warn that a crucial topic is being missed – with 6% of parents seeking advice on their child’s vision.

When it comes to their child’s physical health, 90% of Scots have searched for answers online, with most common themes including high temperatures (47%), developmental milestones (41%), rashes or skin conditions (35%), or eating habits and nutrition (24%). Yet only 6% have ever sought advice about ways to improve kids’ eyesight.

Of those who haven’t, many say it’s because they didn’t spot vision problems in their child (32%) or believe their child is too young for it to be a concern (9%). Dr Nigel Best, Optometrist from Specsavers, highlights that children often don’t report vision issues because they assume what they see is normal – and regular eye tests are recommended from the age of three.

Child psychologist, Dr Elizabeth Kilbey, adds: ‘It’s not surprising parents are turning to search engines to help navigate the many questions that come with raising children – from behaviour and development to the often weird and wonderful things kids say or do.

“Children are curious and imaginative, and this plays a vital role in how they learn, explore and build confidence. Because so much of that discovery is visual, clear vision is crucial to their development.

“In all areas of life, and the classroom especially, clear vision is fundamental. Being able to see and focus underpins learning; when vision is affected, it can influence a child’s attention, engagement and behaviour. That’s why parents should prioritise eye health as an important part of their child’s overall wellbeing.’

The survey uncovers what Scottish parents search for most, with more 32% saying they search about their child’s habits or routines, 33% question whether certain behaviours of their child are common. Interestingly, while 88% admit their online searches regularly start with “Is it normal for my child to…”.

When it comes to their child’s eye health, 23% of Scottish parents are not aware of any common eyesight issues which can affect children, such as short-sightedness or lazy eyes (amblyopia). Worryingly, 9% of those polled, have never taken their child for an eye test, while 2% haven’t done so within the last two years.

The main reason for this was simply because their child hasn’t complained about their vision (26%), with 16% saying they would make an appointment if there appeared to be an issue. 

Dr Nigel Best, Optometrist from Specsavers, says: ‘This research proves how easy it is to overlook a child’s eye health unless obvious symptoms appear. But that’s why being proactive is so important.

“Regular eye tests can identify issues early – often before a child realises anything is wrong. What many parents may not realise is that many sight conditions, such as myopia in kids, can be managed or corrected if they’re detected before the age of eight, while vision is still developing.’

The research aims to encourage parents to prioritise their children’s eye health and reveals how children’s sight problems are going unnoticed. In fact, around 1 in 5 children under 10 experience sight conditions according to the Royal College of Ophthalmologists* – which is up to 1.6 million children in the UK.

Book your child’s NHS-funded eye test at Specsavers.co.uk for children under 16.

TOP 20 QUIRKY SEARCH TERMS ASKED BY SCOTTISH PARENTS

  1. Why are kids saying 6 7
  2. Do kids naturally hate vegetables
  3. Why do kids like sitting in a box
  4. Why do kids love cardboard boxes so much
  5. Why do kids say are we nearly there yet
  6. Why do kids fold their ears
  7. How common is it for children to get stuck in a washing machine
  8. Do kids write diaries without being told to
  9. Why do kids draw dogs all the same
  10. Why are kids talking in letters these days
  11. Why do kids like food in shapes
  12. Why are kids throwing popcorn at chicken jockey
  13. Why do kids act like cats
  14. Do kids poke each other’s bum
  15. How come most kids just instinctively make potions in the bathroom
  16. Why do kids cheer during fire alarm
  17. Do kids like to watch the water tornado in the bath
  18. Why do kids draw loads of fingers on hands
  19. Why do kids eat sponges
  20. Why are kids mewing

Foundations mark next phase of Powderhall regeneration

Foundations have been laid on the next phase of the Powderhall regeneration, marking significant progress in delivering new homes and an educational facility as part of the long-term transformation of the former waste transfer station, bowling greens and adjacent stables sites.

Above-ground construction is now underway on the former bowling greens site, where contractors CCG (Scotland) are installing substructures, foundations and drainage.

This phase will deliver 27 council homes for older people alongside a 128-place early years centre and improvements to St Mark’s Path which is part of QuietRoute 20. The homes will deliver much needed affordable housing in the city centre including 19 wheelchair adapted homes which there is an acute shortage of across the city.

The new nursery, which will be managed by Broughton Primary School, is part of the city’s expansion of early learning and childcare provision and will increase the accessibility, affordability, flexibility and quality of funded early learning and childcare places to meet the needs of the local community.

The regeneration of Powderhall also includes the restoration of the historic Powderhall Stables into flexible workspace and artist studios, which is due to open soon, and upgrades to the Broughton Road and McDonald Road junction.

The final phase of the project will redevelop the former waste transfer station site where over 200 new affordable and private homes, as well as a new civic square on Broughton Road, will be built.

The complete  redevelopment of Powderhall will create a new residential neighbourhood alongside community facilities, green space and improved walking and cycling routes completing the transformation of Powderhall into a vibrant new neighbourhood.

The development received a £1.4m funding boost from the Scottish Government through the Vacant & Derelict Land Investment Programme.

Councillor Tim Pogson, Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener, said: “This is a very exciting moment for the Powderhall regeneration. Seeing foundations now laid for the next phase marks real progress in delivering more homes our city urgently needs.

“I am looking forward to seeing the new affordable homes and early years centre take shape. Once all phases of Powderhall are complete there will be more than 200 homes alongside new community facilities and green space. This development will create a vibrant and inclusive new neighbourhood for people to live and thrive in.

“Two years on from declaring a housing emergency, we know we must keep pushing forward with solutions to deliver more housing at pace. Plans to regenerate city centre brownfield sites such as the former waste transfer station will form part of this.”

CCG Managing Director, David Wylie, said: “Powderhall will soon become a valued asset for Canonmills. Not only will it help to address the growing demand for amenity housing and nursery spaces, but its delivery will also help to create a lasting positive legacy for the wider community, far beyond bricks and mortar.

“Six new jobs, one trade apprenticeship and 13 work placements are set to be created, alongside £7,500 of investment and a commitment to undertake 50 volunteering days in support of Broughton Primary School.

“We thank the City of Edinburgh Council for their continued support, and I look forward to seeing how construction will take shape in the months ahead.”

199 New Shows On Sale for This Year’s Edinburgh Fringe at theSpaceUK

Spring is gathering pace and so is theSpaceUK’s 2026 Edinburgh Festival Fringe programme, with a fresh wave of shows now on sale at at www.theSpaceUK.

Highlights Include:

  • Fringe First Winners Mulberry Theatre returns with two new productions
  • The Last of Liz Truss? comes to Edinburgh following a West End Transfer at The Other Palace.Five standout graduate productions take centre stage as LMA and theSpaceUK expand their Fringe partnership for 2026
  • There’s a striking folk musical re-imagining of Greek mythology in Heracles: Of Men and Beasts from The Barden Party.

Drama & Theatre

The theatre programme offers a powerful mix of historical insight, new writing and imaginative storytelling. Operation Market Garden (Inspired Theatre) draws on real wartime diaries to present a raw account of survival and captivity, while Against the Grain (Darren Katz) explores moral conflict during the Siege of Leningrad.

Contemporary voices come to the fore in Jessies (A bunch of Jessies ltd), charting queer life across fifteen pivotal years, and Woman Seeking Cuddles (The Robot Company), a darkly comic exploration of identity, grief and connection.

Inventive storytelling shapes productions such as O Brave New World, That Has Such People In’t! (Mulberry School for Girls), where a young girl navigates isolation through imagination, and Film Noir Frog (On The Fly Theatre), a surreal detective tale steeped in parody and intrigue.

Playful theatricality takes centre stage in The Great Shakespeare Showdown (Flying Solo! Presents), while boobytrapped offers a bold, body-swapping romantic comedy that confronts identity, prejudice and understanding with humour and heart.

And finally, join Liz, on her last morning at number 10 in The Last of Liz Truss? (Oxia Theatre) which comes to Edinburgh following a West End Transfer at The Other Palace.

Now in its third year, the LMA x theSpaceUK Graduate Scheme expands to five productions including The Woman in the Box, The Girls Who Made Us, Scallyw*nkers, Knot at the Moment and Bite, forming the first dedicated LMA/theSpaceUK season at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and showcasing an exceptional new generation of theatre makers.

Music & Musicals

Musical storytelling takes many forms across this year’s programme. Heracles: Of Men and Beasts (The Barden Party) offers a striking folk musical reimagining of Greek mythology through live-looped soundscapes, while BeetleMania (LUU Musical Theatre) captures the spirit of 1960s pop culture through a comedic audition story.

In Pieces (Laura Sofia Productions) presents a contemporary song-cycle exploring love and self-discovery, while Trains in the Night (Maiden Mother Moan) delivers a tender, sapphic coming-of-age story filled with longing and connection.

Elsewhere, Earth to Squiggy (Radland Media) blends intergalactic adventure with rock and roll nostalgia, and Solo From the Pit (Teater KEF) sees a virtuoso trombonist reinterpreting opera through a unique mix of music and personal storytelling/

Music lovers can also experience the non-verbal vocal spectacle Boom Boom Battle of the Big Bad Bosses (Yat Po Singers Limited), the unpredictable showmanship of Frankie Mack: Wired Differently, and the deeply rooted storytelling of An Tinne (Anne Martin), which connects Scottish history with global migration through song.

Comedy

Absurdity and originality lead the charge in this year’s comedy line-up. Achtung! The Only Sauerkraut in Town (Jürgen Strack Productions) blends Bauhaus sensibilities with beer hall chaos in a sharply offbeat hour of storytelling and stand-up.

Elsewhere, This Little Thing of Ours (This Little Thing of Ours) delivers a mafia musical comedy packed with rivalries, family loyalties and unexpected falsettos.

Personal storytelling meets sharp observation in Theologist (Panad Productions), as Oli Riordan unpacks Catholicism with wit and irreverence, while Scallywankers (Surely Not Productions) offers a riotous, adult-only panto adventure full of audience interaction, reworked songs and unapologetically crude humour.

Children & Family

Family audiences are well catered for with a range of interactive and imaginative productions. Improv Banana – Kids Comedy (Taking Cover Ltd) invites young audiences to take part in a lively, supportive introduction to improvisation led by Roy “The Boy” Allaway.

CinderGorilla: The Musical (The Ministry of Mini Musicals) transforms a picture book into a one-performer, one-audience musical experience using live instruments and puppetry, while Beauty and the Beast (Flying High Expressive Arts CIC) brings fresh energy to the classic tale with original songs and a vibrant young cast.

Adventure awaits in The Hobbit (ETC), a dynamic retelling of Tolkien’s beloved story, combining stage combat, puppetry and original music to bring Middle-earth to life.

Cabaret & Variety

Cabaret this year is bold, playful and unapologetic. Mickey’s Uncut Hits: A Raunchy Cabaret (KAJOLE) reimagines familiar childhood songs into a cheeky, adult-only parody packed with audience interaction and irreverent humour.

For something more gently curious, Rainbows! (Tim Clarkson) blends live science demonstrations with storytelling in an autism-friendly exploration of colour and chemistry. Magic fans can choose between the clever deception of A Case for Magic (Robert Malissa Magician) or the deliberately outrageous 18+ Magic – The Magic Show Your Mum Shouldn’t See (Sean Alexander Productions), which returns following a sold-out debut.

Tickets for hundreds of shows across theSpaceUK’s 2026 programme are now available at www.theSpaceUK.com.

With new work arriving alongside returning favourites, this year’s Fringe promises a season full of discovery, creativity in an unforgettable Fringe.