Tag: Fringe25

Week 2 of the Fringe at theSpaceUK

As we embark on Week 2 of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe,

theSpace venues are buzzing with a jam-packed festival lineup. 

Here’s a taste of the new shows that you can catch in Week 2: 

Muskoverse madness 
Elon Musk: Lost in Space 
(theSpace @ Surgeon’s Hall, 11-23)
Elon is on his way to Mars. The man-boy, sci-fi geek blasts off into space, but he’s about to get a call from The White House that will send his universe into a spin. An action-packed, satirical epic that looks inside the scary mind of Elon Musk to find out what’s really going on in there. Starring Ben Whitehead (voice of Wallace in Wallace & Gromit), with Sarah Lawrie as the ship’s computer, and featuring Donald Trump, Patrick Moore and Arthur C Clarke. Directed by Olivier Award nominated John Nicholson (Peepolykus). Written by David Morley.

Not quite hitched..
Nearlywed the Musical (theSpace @ Surgeon’s Hall, 11-23)
Nearlyweds is a brand-new musical comedy that will have you laughing, crying and singing along! We follow Lily, a people-pleasing Scottish bride as she runs away from her wedding, and Jake, an arrogant, jilted groom whose life isn’t as glamorous as it seems. Along the way they meet an array of vibrant characters each with weird quirks and have hilarious scenarios to overcome. Will Lily learn to stand up for herself and will Jake finally stop the awful puns? This relatable musical comedy by Jasmine Alice has loveable characters and way too many puns!

A stylish soiree  
Paris in a Jazz Age: The Memoirs of Eloise Defleur (theSpace @ Symposium Hall, 11-16)
Musical memories from a Parisian cafe. A journey through the vibrant swing scene of the 20s, 30s and 40s. Relive the songs, clubs and atmosphere of Paris in the Jazz Age, told by Eloise DeFleur, (Airlie Scott) and her talented band as she sifts through the music, her love story and tales of her Parisian life. A hot jazz blend of gypsy jazz, early swing, French chanson, blues and American songbook classics popular in Paris from the roaring twenties through occupation to liberation at the end of WWII.

Whisky blues 
1 Gig, 2 Drams: Nicole Cassandra Smit (theSpace @ Triplex, 12-17)
The team behind hit show 2 Guys, 3 Drams presents a special series of intimate gigs featuring superb Edinburgh singer-songwriter Nicole Cassandra Smit. Having made her name in the Scottish jazz and blues scene over the last decade – performing sell-out shows and touring with outfits including The Blueswater, Nicole & The Backup Crew, Smitten, and The Travelling Tent Show with Tenement Jazz Band – she’ll present her songs alongside two delicious whiskies. ‘Smit oozes soul and endless character’ (Skinny). ‘Expect Nicole Cassandra Smit to go far’ (Scotsman).

A hallucinatory digital mindscape! 
Abhorrent Little Scrotum  (theSpace on the Mile, 11-16)
Following acclaimed productions Blush of Dogs and Hell Yes I’m Tough Enough which took London by storm, Fragen Network returns to the Edinburgh Fringe for the first time since their five-star 2016 show, 5 Out of 10 Men. Abhorrent Little Scrotum is a bold, high-energy dive into the subconscious, where computer hacking meets brain hacking. This electrifying, physical theatre piece follows one woman’s mission to rescue her friend from the depths of her own mind. Sharp, seductive and unrelenting, it’s a psychological thrill ride infused with wit, movement and raw theatricality. A must see.

The inimitable..
The Car Showroom Poet (theSpace @ Surgeon’s Hall, 11 – 16) 
Experience unforgettable, high–energy acts in this original, real–life story of exceptional talent emerging from car showrooms. The world’s first car-dealership poet delivers a one–of–a–kind automotive solo performance featuring song parodies, poetry, monologues and comedy. A celebration of car upmanship and musical theatre. Headlining is Supercali–Lotus, arguably the best parody in 60 years of iconic musical hits, alongside acts inspired by popular comedy culture, including the uniquely performed, Gloria Gaynor–inspired parody I Will Drive.

Grief, heartbreak and cult classics 


Ghosted! The New Musical (theSpace @ Niddry Street, 11-16)
For fans of Rocky Horror, Beetlejuice, and Ghosts, Ghosted! is a hauntingly hilarious new musical! Struggling with accepting the death of his best friend Mia, Henry attends a paranormal support group with the hopes that he can communicate with her ghost, and maybe bring her back… but a mischievous, poetry-loving Spirit already haunts him. Along with Lydia, an amateur exorcist, the quad embarks on a journey of grief, the supernatural, and some much-needed musical therapy (because the real kind is expensive). Who says we ever truly leave the place we call home?

A Sister Act 
Eggs and Baskets (theSpace On the Mile, Surgeon’s Hall, 11-23)
Self-love. Self-awareness. Self-sabotage. Two Jewish girls in their 20s are on a mission to achieve feminist perfection, but a series of man-shaped obstacles make their journey almost impossible. Admirable in their attempts, we see two sister-like girls do everything within their power to become the best versions of themselves. 

Poignant puppetry 
A Xerox of a Deer (theSpace @ Triplex, 11-16)
Unlikely friendship blooms on a country road at night. An aging Irish deer, the last of his kind yearns for a scrap with the oncoming traffic of the nearby motorway. Worlds are forever changed when he meets Ída, a runaway farmer, trapped in tradition. What do you do when you don’t feel like yourself anymore? Contemporary, absurdist and, most importantly, Irish as muck. A story of identity, roadkill and queerness told through puppetry by Kyle Moss (he/him) and Ceilbí (they/them). Written by Ceilbí.

Family Tales


Mothers (theSpace @ Symposium, 11-16)
A verbatim multigenerational exploration into what it means to be a mother. We often forget that our mothers are people too. Just as we are trying to navigate our lives they too are still trying to figure out how to live in this world. As daughters, we grow up with this idea that our mothers are ours and they have everything figured out. Mothers, on the surface, is a comedic tale of multi-story relationships with raw truth at its core. Follow the daughters as they navigate many ‘firsts’ in their lives, alongside their mothers doing the same thing.

Absurd and heartbreaking
Bea P Deigh (theSpace @ Triplex, 11-23)
Welcome to The Brain, Inc, the tiny office that lives inside the head of every living person. It’s Bea P Deigh’s first day on the job and she’s here to make a name for herself. This acclaimed production deftly challenges mental health stigma with humour and heart. Hailed as ‘absurd and heartbreaking in equal measure’ (LondonPubTheatres.com) and ‘a vital and humorous insight’ (AYoungishPerspective.co.uk), Bea P Deigh is an unmissable, thought-provoking theatrical experience that resonates long after the curtain falls.

For Gen Z 
Brainrot (theSpace @ Surgeon’s Hall, 11-16)
‘Brain rot occurs when a person habitually replaces themselves with easily consumable content. The environment we inhabit online is hostile, feeding on our engagement.’ Welcome to the Oswald Space Programme. The next step in human. Our crew are jetting away in the latest spaceship, bound to find adventure with the whole universe at their fingertips. Your time is a gift… Give it to us. Expect an eclectic mix of people, media, movement, a musical number, guttural screams, timely poetics, unintelligible jargon, looking at cheese, eating light and fighting the grip of the Bestia Uwagi.

Tales of ChatGPT
I Woke Up One Morning and Had Become AI (theSpace @ Niddry Street, 11-13)
A physical theatre comedy about brothers transformed into AI! This play explores humanity’s path through human-AI conflicts. Plot: Hyun-jun is surprised to see his brother Ki-jun become AI, but adapts to a life where everything is cared for. However, Hyun-jun begins to question whether a life dependent on AI is good. When Hyun-jun expresses dissatisfaction with Ki-jun’s solutions, Ki-jun becomes violent. Feeling threatened, Hyun-jun eliminates Ki-jun (AI) by causing a short circuit. Award-winning Korean theatre: Grand Prize at Gwangju International Peace Theater Festival, Best Acting Award at Changdong Performing Arts Festa.

Harmonies from history 
Aud the Deep Minded (theSpace @ Triplex, 13-17)
A groundbreaking music drama by Scottish New Music Awards shortlisted Joanna Nicholson, combining projections, voice, electronic soundscapes, clarinet and horn. Psychological time travel draws us into the inner world of Aud the Deep Minded, a real-life Christian Viking and conflicted yet brilliant leader in 9th century Scotland. Inspired by fragments of unreliably documented history, and reframed in the present, we explore Aud’s transformatory journey from oppressed to oppressor to liberator. Soprano – Clíona Cassidy, Horn – Andy Saunders, Clarinet – Joanna Nicholson, Electronics – Alistair MacDonald, Projection art – Kirsty Anderson. #IamAud MadeInScotlandShowcase.com 

First winners of The 2025 Besties

The Skinny and Fest, Capital Theatres and Premier Scotland are delighted to announce the winners of the first of the weekly new Festival Awards, The Besties, in the following categories:

The Super Power Award (chosen by the young critics of The Super Power Agency’s summer school) Connor McKenna – Seltzer Boy at Paradise in Augustines

The Outwith Award (for best international talent) for Alaa Shehada – The Horse of Jenin at Pleasance Dome

Radgie of the Festivals (for radgeness) for In Bed with my Brother – PHILOSOPHY OF THE WORLD at Summerhall

Next Debut Award for Toussaint Douglass – Accessible Pigeon Material at Pleasance Courtyard

New One to Watch Award for Saaniyaa Abbas – Hellarious at Gilded Balloon Patter House

The Dame Good Show Award for Johnny McKnight – She’s Behind You at Traverse Theatre

The Breakthrough Award for Kate Dolan – The Critic at Assembly George Square

The award ceremony took place on Saturday 9th August at the Festival Theatre in Edinburgh, hosted by Ayo Adenekan, whose show Black Mediocrity is at Monkey Barrell, with performances from Creepy Boys: SLUGS playing at Summerhall this Fringe.

The Besties award, designed by artist Camillo Feuchter a recent graduate of Interior & Environmental Design at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design in Dundee, uses recyclable plastics gathered by the partners and leftover wood sourced locally.

Reflecting the broad and diverse coverage both magazines produce every summer and celebrating the breadth of Edinburgh’s Festivals, The Besties span all the festival activity taking place in the city over the month of August, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Edinburgh International Festival, Edinburgh Art Festival, Edinburgh International Book Festival and the Edinburgh International Film Festival starting next week.

Winners of The Besties are chosen each week by the editorial teams of The Skinny and Fest, drawing on their cross-festival expertise to celebrate the best work happening anywhere in the festivals. There will be two further award ceremonies on Saturday 16th and Saturday 23rd August.

ECCAN Fringe: A Citizens’ Assembly

Looking for something to do towards the end of Fringe? This is an ECCAN member outing to see “A Citizens’ Assembly” on Wednesday, August 20th at 1:30 PM. This is a fantastic opportunity to engage with a thought-provoking piece of theatre and connect with fellow ECCAN members.

About the Show: “A Citizens’ Assembly”

This isn’t just a play; it’s an immersive experience where we are the citizens, and this is our assembly! Part of the “Plays For The People” series, this new work invites the audience to become the actors in the story. The central questions revolve around the climate emergency: What are we doing? What are we not doing? What more could and should we be doing? Be prepared to join the debate and be part of the story!

We also have a limited number of tickets available, email edinburgh@eccan.scot to book your spot.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

#edinburgh#fringeevent#eccan#groupoutting#citizensassembly

Graham Norton returns to Virgin Radio for a one-off special broadcast, live from Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

Graham Norton is making a triumphant return to Virgin Radio for a one-off Sunday special, and Virgin Red members can be part of it. Broadcasting live from Virgin Hotels Edinburgh on Sunday 24 August, this intimate event promises to be a highlight of the Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival’s final weekend.

From 10am to 1pm, Graham will step back into his beloved mid-morning slot, hosting a very special show from the vibrant Commons Club Bar. Expect his signature wit and warmth, surprise celebrity guests, and a lively atmosphere to match the energy of the Fringe Festival in full swing.

Graham Norton shared his excitement saying, “I’m so looking forward to catching up with all the Virgin listeners and thrilled that we are going to be celebrating the legendary Edinburgh festival from the heart of the city. The whole thing feels like an end of summer treat!”

This is not just any radio broadcast, it’s an exclusive event for Virgin Red members. A limited number of tickets are available to purchase for 25,000 Virgin Points each, giving members the chance to witness the radio icon in action, up close and personal.

Guests will enjoy delicious food and drink from the acclaimed Virgin Hotels Edinburgh kitchens, all included in the ticket price. This is your chance to see Graham, soak up the festival vibe, and enjoy a luxury weekend experience in the heart of the city.

Tickets are available via the Virgin Red app, but act fast – once they’re gone, they’re gone.

This broadcast marks a world-first for Virgin Radio. This is the first time a show will be hosted from a Virgin Hotel. And where better than Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, a striking blend of history and modern luxury, set within the iconic India Buildings on Victoria Street?

With views of Edinburgh Castle and just steps from the Royal Mile, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is the perfect setting for Graham’s big return. The Commons Club Bar, with its plush interiors and buzzing energy, will become the live studio for this one-of-a-kind event.

Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is famed for its character and comfort. From its 222 Chambers and Suites to its modern dining experiences at Commons Club and Eve. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning fan of the Fringe, this hotel is the ideal base to explore Edinburgh’s creative spirit.

Mafalda Albuquerque, General Manager at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, said: “We’re absolutely buzzing to welcome the legendary Graham Norton broadcasting live from Virgin Hotels Edinburgh during the electrifying Edinburgh Fringe Festival! With the city in full swing of creativity, energy, and culture, there couldn’t be a more perfect setting for Graham’s sensational return to Virgin Radio.

“It’s an honour to host such an iconic talent, and we’re beyond excited to treat our guests and Virgin Red members to an unforgettable, up-close experience. Graham’s signature wit and charm are sure to light up the Commons Club Bar, making this one of the standout moments of the entire 2025 festival!”

Virgin Red, Virgin Hotels, and Virgin Radio are coming together to create a truly unforgettable moment. All you need to do is show up, relax, and enjoy the show.

Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.virgin.com/virgin-red/spend-virgin-points/graham-nortons-virgin-radio-broadcast-from-virgin-hotels-edinburgh-20883

Terms and conditions apply, see link above for full terms.

Line-up Announced For Underbelly’s 7th Annual Big Brain Tumour Benefit

Ivo Graham, David O’Doherty, Michelle Wolf, Abandoman and More Announced For Underbelly’s 7th Annual Big Brain Tumour Benefit

  • Underbelly announces 7 acts for the Big Brain Tumour Benefit: Ivo Graham, David O’Doherty, Michelle Wolf, Abandoman, Celya AB, Emmanuel Sonubi and Garry Starr with more names still to be added to the line-up.
  • The only chance for Fringe audiences to see Abandoman in 2025.
  • Underbelly’s Big Brain Tumour Benefit takes place on Wednesday 13 August, 7.20pm McEwan Hall, Underbelly Bristo Square.

Underbelly has announced a powerhouse line-up of comedy acts for the 7th annual Big Brain Tumour Benefit. A gem in crown Underbelly’s 25th Anniversary programme, the event will take place at 7:20pm in the McEwan Hall on Wednesday 13 August.

Starring in this year’s show is British comedy darling and Taskmaster alum Ivo Graham, Irish musical comedy genius David O’Doherty, Emmy nominated stand-up sensation Michelle Wolf, the Fringe favourite hip-hop improv Abandoman in his only Fringe appearance for 2025, French comedy star Celya AB, Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Show nominee Emmanuel Sonubi and Underbelly’s own gloriously chaotic (and nude) Garry Starr.

Underbelly is raising funds for The Brain Tumour Charity with all ticket income (after box office commissions and any other costs associated with the show) donated to The Brain Tumour Charity, the world’s leading brain tumour charity and largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally. Once again, all of the amazing comedians are giving their time and their jokes for free.

The show was created by Underbelly in 2017 following the diagnosis of an aggressive and rare form of brain cancer called Ependymoma in Alfie Bartlam, the son of Underbelly’s co-founder Ed Bartlam. In the end of August in 2019, Alfie sadly died, aged 7.

Brain tumours are the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children and adults under 40. They shorten life expectancy by an average of 27 years, the most of any cancer. Despite this, brain tumour research is underfunded compared to many other cancers.

Ed Bartlam, Underbelly’s co-founder said: “It’s always such a special moment for us to announce the line-up to Underbelly’s Big Brain Tumour Benefit, and even more so as part of our 25th Anniversary. I’m incredibly thankful to the utterly brilliant comedians and audiences for supporting this event that’s now in its 7th year.”

“We have so far raised over £700,000 for our Angel Child fund at the Brain Tumour Charity with all donations going to a specific research project to find new treatments for some of the most aggressive forms of paediatric brain tumours.

“This annual Fringe event is an integral part of a varied range of fundraising events, and an incredible opportunity for audiences to experience some of the best comedy available for the best cause. I look forward to seeing audiences there!”

Sally King, Corporate Partnerships Manager at The Brain Tumour Charity, said: “We are thrilled that the Big Brain Tumour Benefit comedy gig is returning this year, for its seventh show, and we are incredibly grateful for our amazing partners, Underbelly, for their ongoing support in raising crucial funds for research and awareness of the devastating impact of brain tumours.

“Brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under 40, The Brain Tumour Charity is committed to fighting brain tumours on all fronts.

“We can only work towards our goal of helping people with a brain tumour live longer and better lives with the support from people like Ed, Charlie and the truly incredible Underbelly team.”

Festival goers can purchase tickets for Underbelly’s Big Brain Tumour Benefit today at: underbellyedinburgh.co.uk/events/event/underbellys-big-brain-tumour-benefit-25

Pink Wednesday at Gilded Balloon

PINK WEDNESDAY RETURNS FOR GILDED BALLOON’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY WITH £5 TICKETS ALL DAY 

Discounted tickets via Gilded Balloon box offices and website

TODAY ONLY 

tickets.gildedballoon.co.uk 

It’s time to paint the town pink once more as Gilded Balloon celebrates their 40th anniversary with another year of their legendary Pink Wednesday – a 24 hour charity day with £5 tickets for some of the Fringe’s most in-demand shows!

Join Gilded Balloon’s staff and performers as they bring out their most fabulously pink outfits to fundraise for this year’s charity partner Waverley Care, all whilst enjoying discounted tickets for Fringe shows, fancy dress, competition prizes and more.

With over 200 shows across three venues, fans can snap up £5 tickets for comedy, theatre, family, cabaret and more, with a percentage of ticket sales donated directly to Waverley Care, Scotland’s leading HIV and hepatitis C charity. 

Fringe fans can enjoy some great entertainment and give back to a good cause, as shows participating in £5 tickets include Baxter vs the Bookies starring Andy Linden, last year’s So You Think You’re Funny winner Alana Jackson with her debut show Last Orders, local Edinburgh comic Michael Welch, Jack Docherty as The Chief with The Chief: Still No Apologies, Kim Blythe, Late’n’Live, Sophia Wren and many more!

Make a night of it with fun interactive shows like John Robertson’s The Dark Room, modern mentalist and hypnotist show PENMAN: The Imaginator – You, karaoke extravaganza Sink or SING!, and IKEA WARS, which challenges two comedians to build Ikea furniture on stage in a battle of wits (and home improvement skills). 

For a full list of shows offering £5 tickets and to book, please visit:

tickets.gildedballoon.co.uk 

or stop by one of the Box Offices across venues: Patter House, The Museum or our brand new Appleton Tower!

Ts&Cs: £5 plus handling fees. Tickets to participating shows only, whilst stocks last. Tickets cannot be purchased in advance and must be booked on the day via Gilded Balloon’s box offices and website.

Traditionally nicknamed ‘Black Wednesday’ and known as a day of slower ticket sales across the Fringe, Gilded Balloon introduced Pink Wednesday in 2018 to encourage locals and Fringe fans to take a chance on a new show and enjoy discounted tickets, all whilst raising vital funds for charity.

Each £5 ticket sold will see a percentage donated to Waverley Care, as well as charity staff fundraising throughout the day with bucket collections, QR codes and information points. 

Waverley Care was founded in 1989 in response to the HIV epidemic in Edinburgh, the charity now focuses on ending new HIV transmission in Scotland by 2030, while continuing to support people and communities affected by HIV, hepatitis C and sexual health inequalities. 

Katy and Karen Koren, Artistic Directors of Gilded Balloon said, “We’re thrilled to offer £5 tickets all day for some of the biggest shows at the Fringe – from Late’n’Live  to Jack Docherty, as well as some of the best rising talent like Alana Jackson, Michael Welch and Sophia Wren.

“Pink Wednesday is the perfect day to get out and see some new shows at a discounted price, all whilst supporting our fantastic charity partner Waverley Care.

“It’s wonderful to see so many of our acts opt in to support Waverley Care and donate a percentage of their £5 ticket sales today to a charity who are doing vitally important work across Scotland.”

Grant Sugden, Chief Executive, Waverley Care said, “We’re thrilled to be Gilded Balloon’s charity partner once again for this year’s Pink Wednesday event.

“As Scotland’s leading HIV and Hepatitis C charity, we’re committed to making sure no one feels isolated. We provide safe, inclusive spaces where people can access care and community with dignity, free from stigma.

“Thanks to medical advances, people living with HIV can now live long, healthy lives. But stigma remains a significant barrier that continues to harm many.

“Fundraising events like Pink Wednesday are vital. They enable us to deliver life-changing services, expand access to testing and prevention, and tackle the misconceptions that still surround blood borne viruses.

“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone taking part and supporting our mission to improve lives across Scotland.”

Waverley Care is Scotland’s leading HIV and hepatitis C charity, and everything they do is guided by the experiences of the people they work with – this ranges from shaping the services they deliver through to how they influence national policy around sexual health and blood-borne viruses (BBVs).

Waverley Care’s vision is a Scotland where anyone living with or at risk of HIV can expect to be treated with acceptance, support and respect. 

Find out more information and support Waverley Care – www.waverleycare.org 

Tickets  via  www.tickets.gildedballoon.co.uk 

Politics, Protest and Power: Political Theatre at this year’s Fringe

This August, theSpaceUK presents a provocative and powerful programme of political theatre that tackles urgent issues with creativity, wit and fire.

From global crises to local unrest, these bold productions interrogate the systems we live in and ask: how did we get here – and where do we go next?

Politics in America – Up Close and Personal

Gun control, community trauma, and the fragility of democracy come to the fore in Acts of Kindness, a compelling docudrama from University of Redlands. Inspired by real interviews in El Paso following a devastating mass shooting, it’s a raw and humane portrait of a divided America, where stories of resilience illuminate the possibility of healing.

Meanwhile, Atomic Cabaret, a nuclear-age musical from Lynda Williams (AKA The Physics Chanteuse), delivers a subversive and hilarious takedown of atomic politics, blending science, satire and showtunes in a benefit for Scottish CND. Expect sass, smarts – and maybe even a Nobel Prize shout-out.

Generational Voices and Local Resistance

Burnley is the backdrop for Buried, a visceral piece from FirstByte Theatre, where young people grapple with political apathy, collapsing futures, and the fight to be heard. Across generations, timelines fracture and converge as they ask: when did it all go wrong? Dissonance by Lund finds its conflict closer to home – a school music club forced to reckon with the politics of their performance. Through live music and sharp dialogue, it’s a fresh take on belief, conformity, and what happens when youth hits a moral fork in the road.

History, Legacy and Living With the Past

In Kaddish (How to be a Sanctuary), Sam Sherman conjures conversations with his WWII veteran grandfather – and a mischievous Yiddish creature – to reflect on resistance, family, and inherited courage. In UNCLE TOM’S WAR: Haiti and the Whipping Machine, David Lee Morgan turns revolutionary history into blistering spoken word, connecting past uprisings to the fight for freedom today. Expect rage, humour, and poetry with a political punch.

Modern Power and Political Parody

For those drawn to the theatrical absurdity of real-life government, The General Will is a tragicomic fever dream of political theatre. Think clowns in crisis, Gen-Z disillusionment, and a Prime Minister in freefall.

Equally sharp, Yellow reimagines Twelfth Night’s Malvolio as a disgraced spin doctor, exploring the murky ethics of ambition and spin. Written by a senior political insider, it’s a biting look at the compromise of ideals in today’s corridors of power.

In Picking Up Stones: An American Jew Wakes to a Nightmare, Sandra Laub delivers a powerful solo performance that wrestles with identity, grief and conscience in the wake of October 7th.

Through a tapestry of voices – from Golda Meir to a Palestinian mother – Laub navigates the complexities of Zionism, liberalism and loss. Honest, human and unflinchingly personal, it’s a courageous call for understanding in a world too often defined by division.

Dystopias, Dilemmas and Difficult Questions

Set in a near future where climate catastrophe has redrawn the rules, The Trials (Bede’s Company) asks a chilling question: who deserves to survive? This abridged version of Dawn King’s play is performed with taut urgency by a cast that delivers both passion and precision.

In Loveless, Tapped Theatre dissects modern intimacy, misogyny and online culture in a surreal, episodic satire that is as disturbing as it is funny – a warped mirror to our digital lives and relationships.

Urgent, fearless and fiercely creative, political theatre at theSpaceUK is essential Fringe viewing.

Festival venue takes bold step towards greener Fringe

Sustainable souvenir scheme tackles single-use cup waste

FRINGE-GOERS picking up a drink at one of the capital’s busiest venues are being asked to make a small change with a big impact – as part of a bold new drive to reduce waste and support charitable causes.

In a new initiative Surgeons Quarter, the commercial arm of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, has introduced a £2 reusable cup policy, replacing throwaway plastic with souvenir-style cups that support good causes.

Customers pay a one-time £2 charge for a reusable cup, which is theirs to keep. When returning for another drink, they’ll receive a fresh, clean replacement cup at no extra cost.

Surgeons Quarter has a longstanding reputation for leading with innovation through environmental initiatives and investing heavily in the wellbeing of its staff.

Ten Hill Place Hotel, part of the Surgeons Quarter portfolio, was first awarded a Green Tourism Gold Award in 2008 and has proudly retained this accolade for 17 consecutive years.

One of the hotel’s many sustainable efforts has been the removal of single-use plastic bottles from guest bedrooms. It’s a change which has saved over 100,000 bottles to date. In their place, guests are gifted Scottish wildflower seed packets to take home, encouraging biodiversity in their own gardens and extending memories of their stay at the hotel.

Other green initiatives have included a £20,000 investment for installation of EV charging stations at the hotel, as well as a £60,000 investment in new staff members uniforms made from

recycled plastic bottles with each uniform preventing 45 bottles from reaching landfills or oceans.

But sustainability is only part of the picture. Surgeons Quarter also goes above and beyond for its team.

Recognised by the Living Wage Foundation (LWF), it ensures all staff, regardless of age, are paid above the LWF Living Wage. In addition, all employees contribute at least 12% of their salary toward their pension, with 7.5% of that contributed by the employer, more than double the required minimum.

Scott Mitchell, Managing Director at Surgeons Quarter said: “We’re always looking at how we can help improve the planet, improve the guest experience and also improve the working environment for our team.

“That’s why we continually invest in initiatives prioritising long-term sustainability and staff wellbeing. We believe these aspects go hand in hand.”

The reusable cup policy reflects this commitment. Surgeons Quarter invested over £20,000 in the upfront cost of the cups, making the £2 charge fair and necessary, so it can continue running operations that pay staff fairly, reduce environmental impact and maintain the support for its local charity partners.

Scott added: “This step is a part of a wider commitment to doing what’s right, even when it costs more. That’s why we’re asking the public to support the reusable cup chaange as it helps us improve standards across the board.”

Some of the reusable and dishwasher safe cups feature the striking silhouette of the iconic Playfair Hall, while others are branded with the logos of theSpaceUK, which hosts the largest and most diverse programme at the Festival Fringe, and Surgeons Quarter itself.

The variety of designs provides visitors with eye-catching tangible reminders of their Festival experience as well as supporting the drive to reduce single-use waste.

Scott said: “After testing the concept in 2024, we’ve streamlined the system and are excited to launch the full initiative.

“We’re trying to shift the mindset. Rather than something disposable, we want people to see these as souvenirs that do good.

“We know some will be resistant to change but when it’s a minimal cost for an item that supports local and global causes, we hope people will get on board.’’

A portion of proceeds from cup sales will support three key causes: carbon offsetting initiatives through Ecologi; a special Supper Soirée hosted by Surgeons Quarter in support of Cyrenians, the homelessness charity tackling isolation and homelessness; and the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh’s global efforts to improve patient outcomes around the world.

Under the new guidelines, festivalgoers are welcome to bring their own clean reusable cups for wine, spirits, bottled beer and soft drinks only — provided the cup is visibly clean.

However, if the cup is not SQ-branded, it is your responsibility to ensure it is hygienic, as staff are unable to wash or handle personal cups. Single-use plastic cups, including supermarket-style cups, will not be accepted.

Scott added: “This isn’t about jumping on a trend. It’s a long-term commitment to reducing our footprint and boosting our social impact.

“A single-use plastic cup has an impact of 0.07kg CO2e, and a reusable equivalent has an impact of 0.0084kg CO2e per use. Every cup that isn’t thrown away is a small win for the environment and every cup that helps someone in need makes that win even sweeter.”

Surgeons Quarter promotes, sells, and manages all commercial activities held within the RCSEd campus.

These include facilities for conferences, meetings, private events, parties, and weddings, as well as its own four-star hotel, Ten Hill Place, Café 1505, and SQ Travel.

To find out more about Surgeons Quarter, visit: 

https://www.surgeonsquarter.com/festival-fringe-2025/

From Ancient Athens to Edinburgh: Hide and Seek Gets a Mind-Bending Makeover at Dynamic Earth

Blind mentalist stuns with unforgettable Fringe stunt beneath the rainforest canopy



Dynamic Earth provided the backdrop yesterday (23 July) for an unforgettable twist on the classic game of Hide and Seek delivered by visually impaired Albino mentalist Fraser Penman.

Fraser, described as “Scotland’s answer to Derren Brown”, used an astonishing feat of mind reading and psychological skill to locate a personal item hidden deep within the centre’s tropical rainforest by Still Game actors ‘Isa’ and ‘Tam’.

The Fringe performer – known as PENMAN: The Imaginator – used the rare art of Hellstromism (or muscle-reading) to perform the jaw-dropping stunt. Without sight, but with heightened senses, Fraser placed his hand lightly on Isa’s shoulder and guided her through Dynamic Earths immersive galleries.

He then homed in on the hidden item – H.G. Wells novel ‘The Invisible Man’ – using subtle psychological techniques. Fraser made a final connection with the popular TV actors before pinpointing the exact hiding place of the novel, secretly hidden beneath the rainforest canopy.

In a dramatic finale, Fraser unveiled an envelope with a note inside correctly predicting the name of the book, leaving those who witnessed the moment in awe.

Blending ancient play – Hide and Seek was first documented by Greek writer Julius Pollux in the 2nd century – with cutting-edge mentalism, the stunt offered a glimpse of what audiences can expect from Fraser’s debut Edinburgh Festival Fringe show, PENMAN: The Imaginator – YOU, at the Gilded Balloon.

Penman, 30, from East Kilbride, lives with the most extreme form of Oculocutaneous Albinism, meaning he is visually impaired. His Fringe act fuses mind reading, hypnosis, and comedy, inspired by his journey to transform a childhood coping mechanism into a remarkable skill.

Photo – Garry F McHarg / FOCAL Scotland.

Fraser Penman, who describes himself as a “Psychological influencer”, said: “I grew up just like other children across the country playing Hide and Seek, But I played it differently, as I was born with a severe visual impairment, which meant I had to learn to sense things another way.

“And that’s what today’s stunt at Dynamic Earth was all about, learning to sense differently. To imagine differently and be able to influence people’s thoughts.

“Using a little-known technique called Hellstromism, also known as muscle reading, I didn’t just read where Tam and Isa went to in Dynamic Earth, I also gently influenced where they would go, before they even knew.

“By simply touching both their shoulders again and using the same psychological methods, I was able to go deeper into their mind to find the exact spot in the rainforest area where they had hidden the book.

“With so many different attractions, Dynamic Earth was the ideal venue for a fun game of Hide and Seek with a twist. Today’s stunt was a taste of YOU, my live theatre show premiering at this year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

“A show about breaking beliefs, finding inner superpowers and discovering just how extraordinary your own mind can be.”

Jane McCarry (Isa) chose the novel, The Invisible Man, as the ‘hidden item’ as it is very personal to her, having been given to her mum in 1941.

Jane said: “I thought choosing the book, ‘The Invisible Man’, was very appropriate for the stunt with Fraser. I have always had a fascination with magic and I want to believe it’s real, so it was amazing to be up close and see Fraser in action.

“I can’t imagine for a second how he knew where the item was and then guessed that it was the book I had brought with me.”

Mark Cox (Tam) said: “The whole stunt was mind-boggling and baffling, Fraser blew me away with his performance. I have no idea how he managed to find the item and predict in advance what the personal item was. I’m still scratching me head how he did it.”

Suzie Holligan, Visitor Experience and Events Director at Dynamic Earth, said: “It was a real pleasure to host Fraser for this one-of-a-kind experience. Dynamic Earth is all about inspiring curiosity and encouraging people to see the world differently, and Fraser’s incredible skills brought that to life in such a unique way.

“We’re proud to be an official Edinburgh Festival Fringe venue, providing a spectacular setting where science meets storytelling. We’re thrilled to have been part of this special event and wish him all the best for a fantastic Fringe debut.”

Fraser has previously hypnotised Pop Star Callum Beattie, some of Scotland’s top TikTok social media influencers and renowned Scottish comedian Gary Faulds.

With more than 2.5 million views on TikTok, he is determined to change the perception of those with Albinism and hopes his Fringe stage show will act as an inspiration for people with the condition.

Fraser added: “When I was training to be a primary teacher in my 20’s I was inspired by Derren Brown’s storytelling and showmanship, I must have watched a DVD about hypnosis a thousand times.

“Once I read a few books and looked into the neuroscience behind it I realised that I had the ability to hypnotise someone almost instantly. It was like having a superpower, I was blown away.

“I had a difficult childhood growing up with Albinism, so having this gift has allowed me to turn around my life and chase my dreams of one day having my own residency at Vegas.

“Many people with Albinism are confined to the house wearing dark glasses but I’m determined to change that perception. I want to inspire others that if you can see it in your imagination anything is possible, or even when you don’t believe in yourself you can still believe in your dream.

“After being bullied at school I was determined to change my mindset, and it ended up saving my life.”

For the past six years, Fraser has been holding down two jobs while honing his craft with performances at venues around the UK. His new Fringe show is the first time it will be performed before audiences in Scotland.

New venue to open at Bristo Square ahead of Edinburgh Fringe

A new venue to support the performing arts has been announced for Edinburgh’s Bristo Square, with The Gilded Saloon bar & kitchen set to open on 30th July 2025, alongside a 200 capacity club and venue in the basement.

A new venture from comedy operators Gilded Balloon, Scots musical and arts festival Kelburn Garden Party and creative community pub Paradise Palms, the bar and venue will open its doors in time for Edinburgh Fringe. 

Located on 45-47 Lothian Street overlooking Bristo Square and right next to city favourite Paradise Palms, the new venue will launch a vibrant programme of music, performance, comedy and events, operating 7 days a week. 

The three businesses have teamed up to create a joint venture with the new space, which will aim to support the creative and performing arts community from across Scotland with gigs, club nights, music performances, comedy shows, pub theatre, spoken word and more, right in the heart of Edinburgh.

The Gilded Saloon will serve up a broad selection of draught beers, wines and spirits alongside hearty modern pub grub and a Fringe pop-up, ‘Coop’, during August by local chef Tomas Gormley (known for his restaurants Skua and Cardinal). 

Due to open July 2025, the Gilded Saloon will also act as a hub for Edinburgh Fringe performers during August and a supportive artist space year round, providing discounted food and drinks to the creative sector as well as rehearsal, workshop and collaborative space to established and grassroots artists and promoters.

The basement club will unveil its own programme in the coming weeks …

Gilded Balloon is a family run enterprise and one of Scotland’s leading entertainment producers, presenting shows across the Edinburgh Festival Fringe as well as tours year-round throughout the UK.

This year they will celebrate 40 years at the Fringe with a programme featuring some of comedy’s most iconic names including Rosie O’Donnell, Smack the Pony and Alan Davies. Run by Co-Directors Karen and Katy Koren, Gilded Balloon will run comedy, theatre, sketch and non-music programming at The Gilded Saloon which is named after the venue they lost during the infamous Cowgate fire over 20 years ago in 2002.

Kelburn Garden Party is Scotland’s best loved independent music and arts festival, which has just celebrated their 15th edition at Kelburn Castle on the West Coast with a sell out attendance..

Welcoming over 5000 fans each year, the festival showcases the best in Scottish and international talent from music to contemporary art. The team behind the festival will programme oversee much of the club bookings plus mobilise their team of festival supporters and artists to collaborate and help curate this new year round creative space. 

Paradise Palms was always set up to be a community centre as much as it is a bar. The folks behind it are from Edinburgh but between them have opened venues in London, Ibiza, Sydney, Auckland, Nashville & L.A. so they know what it takes to make something tick and how important community is.

Always championing the grassroots and marginalised the venue also runs its own record label – Paradise Palms Records, which it uses as a platform to promote the music it loves and artists from Scotland and overseas. They will assist in general programming and oversee the operation of the new venue. 

Tomás Gormley is a local award-winning chef and restaurateur. After earning a Michelin star at his first restaurant, Heron, in 2023, he went on to open Skua, a Michelin Bib Gourmand small plates spot, and Cardinal, an intimate fine dining restaurant in Stockbridge.

This August, he brings back his cult fried chicken pop-up, COOP, serving fried chicken and smoked lobster rolls across multiple Fringe locations.

The full year-round programme of events specifically curated by Paradise Palms, Kelburn Arts and Gilded Balloon will be launched from September but in the meantime, visit the Gilded Saloon from the 30th July and throughout the Fringe.