Tag: Gilded Balloon

Tim Minchin backs new Gilded Balloon fund to support next generation of Fringe artists

SHOW SUPPORT FUND LAUNCHED

Gilded Balloon today announces the launch of its Show Support Fund, a new initiative designed to help artists overcome the growing financial barriers of bringing work to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Delivered by Gilded Balloon Futures Ltd, the organisation’s registered charity, the fund marks a significant step in expanding Gilded Balloon’s long-standing commitment to artist development. Gilded Balloon Futures was originally established following the Cowgate fire and relaunched at the end of 2025 as part of Gilded Balloon’s 40th anniversary, with a renewed focus on supporting artists and sustaining the future of the Fringe.

At its core, the Show Support Fund will raise commercial, public and charitable donations to directly support artists in Gilded Balloon’s annual Fringe programme. With the cost of participating in the Fringe continuing to rise, the fund aims to ensure that more artists, particularly those with distinct voices and limited financial means, can bring their work to Edinburgh.

The fund is designed to be flexible and collaborative, allowing donors to support the kinds of artists and projects they are most passionate about, while Gilded Balloon identifies productions that would most benefit from additional backing. Funding may contribute to a wide range of artist’s needs, including marketing, rehearsal space, creative support, travel, accommodation and wellbeing.

Alongside the Show Support Fund, Gilded Balloon Futures will also support the So You Think You’re Funny? Artist Development Programme, helping to cover the costs of the competition and providing vital opportunities for emerging comedians. This includes financial assistance for travel and accommodation for selected performers, removing one of the biggest barriers to accessing the fringe.

In its inaugural year, the Show Support Fund has been kickstarted by a generous contribution from globally acclaimed comedian, writer and composer Tim Minchin alongside his wife Sarah Minchin, their donation will support five shows selected by Gilded Balloon Artistic Directors Karen Koren and Katy Koren, focusing on solo performers with bold voices and sharing personal stories across comedy and theatre.

Tim Minchin who first found major success at Gilded Balloon at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2005 has particular interest in supporting artists who have struggled with mental health issues who may require additional support to make the Fringe achievable with their work.

In 2026, a total of £10,000 has been raised for the Show Support Fund which will be split between five supported artists as follows:

● Jamie Kilstein: Can’t Tie Knots

● Madeleine Brettingham: Legend

● Lois-Amber Toole: SLAY

● Alan Jay: Hell Hath No Humour Like A Gayboy Scorned

● Kathleen Hughes: Twig

These productions represent a mix of emerging and established voices, each facing unique challenges in bringing their work to the Fringe, from international travel costs to personal circumstances and the realities of early-career development.

Support from the fund will directly impact these artists’ ability to present their work, whether through financial relief, creative resources, or practical adjustments that make participation possible.

Karen and Katy Koren, Artistic Directors of the Gilded Balloon said: ““For over 40 years, Gilded Balloon has been a home for artists at every stage of their careers, from first-timers to global stars. But the reality now is that the financial barriers to getting to the Fringe are higher than ever.

“We are delighted to finally launch this fund which has been a long time coming and is about protecting what makes the Fringe special, taking risks on new voices and giving artists the chance to be seen – something we’ve always prioritised at Gilded Balloon. We want to work with supporters who believe in that mission and help us keep those doors open.

“Every year we meet extraordinary artists with urgent, exciting work who simply can’t afford to bring their work to the Fringe. The Show Support Fund and the So You Think You’re Funny? Artist Development programme – both delivered by Gilded Balloon Futures – allow us to raise funds for where it matters most.

“Whether that’s helping artists to cover travel or accommodation costs, giving artists proper time and space to develop their work, or supporting their wellbeing during what can be an incredibly intense month.

“It’s practical, targeted support that can genuinely change the trajectory of someone’s career and we are eternally grateful to our pal, Tim Minchin, for being the first to support the Show Support Fund.”

Tim Minchin said: “Late one night in March, 21 years ago, a furiously passionate woman with a strong Scottish accent called me up and demanded I go to the Gilded Balloon.

“I didn’t know what the fuck a Gilded Balloon was, and I was deeply cautious, because I’d spent ten years grafting away, and didn’t really believe in big breaks. But a big break is exactly what that phone call was.

“Karen Koren – and now her daughter Katy – have remained loyal friends and passionate supporters for two decades, and it’s a huge privilege to be able to support them a bit as they head into their 41st Fringe.” 

A CALL TO THE INDUSTRY

Gilded Balloon hopes that the Minchins’ contribution will inspire others, particularly alumni, industry partners and Fringe supporters, to invest in the next generation of performers.

As one of the Fringe’s longest-running venues, Gilded Balloon has played a pivotal role in launching the careers of countless comedians and theatre-makers. The Show Support Fund represents a new chapter in that legacy, ensuring that talent, not financial means, remains the driving force behind who gets to take part.

By contributing to the fund, supporters will play a direct role in shaping the future of the Fringe, enabling more artists to take risks, share their stories, and reach new audiences on one of the world’s most important cultural stages.

For more details and how to contribute visit: 

https://gildedballoon.co.uk/contact/support-us/

Palestinian-Syrian actor Arwa Omaren fuses Greek tragedy and lived experience of displacement in searing Fringe debut

‘Hecuba: Why Am I In Your Country?’ – At Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

5th – 31st August / 11.50am / Gilded Balloon – The Turret at Teviot

What happens when an ancient queen of war becomes a modern refugee at the UK border? 

In “Hecuba: Why Am I In Your Country?”, Palestinian Syrian actor Arwa Omaren combines Euripides’ “The Trojan Women” with her own story of displacement in a raw, urgent solo performance that condenses 2,500 years of history into one voice. 

Directed and co-written by award-winning filmmaker William Stirling, produced by Scottish founded Trojan Women Project, and recently nominated for an Offie (Off West End Award) – recognising the show’s powerful fusion of classical text and contemporary testimony, as well as Omaren’s extraordinary solo performance –  this strikingly original production asks not only how we tell stories of exile, but who gets to tell them.

Performed at the renowned Gilded Balloon as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the show runs at The Turret at Teviot at 11:50am from 5-31 August 2026.

Arwa Omaren, a trained actor from Damascus, brings both classical know-how and lived experience to the role of Hecuba, the fallen Queen of Troy.

A Palestinian Syrian who fled the Syrian war, Omaren performs the myth alongside her own testimony as a “double refugee” seeking asylum in Britain – dealing with the horrors of homelessness, sleeping on the streets in the UK – and the battle to be re-united with her beloved golden retriever, Jacko, the dog she had to leave behind when she fled Syria.

The result is a really inventive, emotionally engaging piece that blurs the boundary between performer and subject, and myth and memory.

The production is led by the Trojan Women Project, an international initiative pairing and mentoring refugee performers with Greek tragedy as a means of processing displacement and reclaiming their narrative through their very own voices and expertise – they get to do what they know, including writing, acting and more. It has previously been presented at the Voila! Festival, where it drew attention for its intimate storytelling and political resonance.

Developed in community drama workshops supported by the National Lottery Community Fund, it is supported by the Mackintosh Foundation.

At its core, “Hecuba: Why Am I In Your Country?” asks important questions about the language and systems surrounding refuge: borders, bureaucracy, hospitality, and exclusion. 

At a time when conversations around migration and identity are increasingly polarised, this production offers a work that is both deeply personal and unmistakably universal.

The Gilded Balloon, one of the Fringe’s longest-running and most respected venues, provides an ideal platform for bold, artist-driven work. Set within the historic Teviot complex, The Turret offers an intimate space that brings audiences into close proximity with Omaren’s performance.

Trojan Women Project is currently welcoming sponsorship and partnership support to help bring this urgent and timely work to its audience and continue its work with refugees, and welcomes conversations with organisations aligned with its themes of displacement, cultural dialogue, and social impact.

SHOW INFORMATION

Title: Hecuba: Why Am I In Your Country?

Dates: 5–31 August 2026
Time: 11:50am
Venue: Gilded Balloon – The Turret at Teviot

Tickets link: ‘Hecuba? Why Am I In Your Country?’ at Gilded Balloon

Language: English
Duration: 55 mins
Age Guidance: 14 plus guideline

Performer/Creator: Arwa Omaren

Directed and co-written by: Award-winning filmmaker William Stirling

Presented by: Gilded Balloon

Produced by: Trojan Women Project

Content Warnings: Themes of war, violence, death, and rape are discussed

Gilded Balloon announces next wave of Edinburgh Festival Fringe shows 

Comedy stars, bold theatre, musicals, podcasts, gaming and family shows join expanding programme across Teviot, Patter House and beyond

Gilded Balloon has announced a major third wave of another 88 shows on sale for the 2026 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, bringing a dynamic mix of comedy, theatre, musicals, spoken word, cabaret and family shows to venues across the city.

This latest release builds on the already announced programme, with household names, Fringe favourites and exciting new voices set to take to stages at Teviot, Patter House, Gilded Balloon at the Museum, The Gilded Saloon and The King’s Theatre.

COMEDY

A standout comedy line-up sees the return of some of the UK and international circuit’s most recognisable names.

Fred MacAulay returns with both his much-loved live chat show Fred MacAulay in Conversation and brand-new stand-up hour Good Evening!, marking a powerful return following a challenging year (Gilded Balloon at the Museum).

At Teviot, Grace Campbell: The Lady is a Tramp delivers a bold, unfiltered hour of self-examination, while BAFTA-winning comic Jack Docherty: Butterfly brings a masterclass in storytelling and personal comedy.

International talent includes Australian internet sensation Jimmy Rees: In Reel Life (Teviot) and acclaimed US comic Jamie Kilstein: Can’t Tie Knots (Teviot), alongside returning Scottish favourites Paul Black: Cash Cow (Gilded Balloon at the Museum) and Mhairi Black: Difficult Second Album (Teviot) for a limited run.

A packed programme of distinctive comedy voices continues with Off-Broadway darling Sam Morrison: DUCK (Teviot), returning with a science-obsessed attack on the human ego, Leo Hincks: Emotional Cowboy (Teviot), Mark Silcox – I Have It All [A Success Story] (Teviot), Toby Tarrant: Utter Bloke Nonsense (The Gilded Saloon), author, journalist, and presenting her debut solo stand-up show, Amanda Knox with Cartwheel (Teviot), Glasgow local rising-star Tia Rey: Oot Ma Banger (The Gilded Saloon), Celine Kuklowsky: Bed Boy (Patter House) and fresh from a smash-hit season at Adelaide Fringe Claire Robin: NUN SLUT (Patter House). More stand-up and sketch comedy across the programme includes Mark Maier’s Jewvenile (Teviot), an award-winning observational set packed with sharp takes on everyday life; Maxx Eddy: Bi Meets World (Patter House), a chaotic and candid debut exploring queerness and masculinity; and Jess Carrivick (Teviot) and Joe Bor: The Adventures of Jasper Cromwell Jones (Teviot), bringing fresh comedic voices and character-driven storytelling to the Fringe.

International names include Pernille Haaland: Nordic Operations (The Gilded Saloon & Teviot), returning with her cool, sharp take on global tensions and modern life, and Brendan Scannell (Patter House), alongside fast-rising US comic Jamie Wolf: PSYCHO (Teviot), a life-affirming and hilarious reflection on grief.

Further highlights include Christian Dart: GUMSHOE! (Patter House), a multi award-nominated noir parody packed with high-energy character comedy; Spooky Dookie: Cool New Planet!! (Patter House), a sharp, silly sketch show imagining the creation of Earth.

SPOKEN WORD, PODCASTS & SPECIAL EVENTS

Gilded Balloon continues to blur the lines between performance and conversation with a strong programme of live events. Gilded Balloon co-productions include Graham Norton and Maria McErlane who bring their hit podcast Wanging On Live to the stage for the first time at The King’s Theatre and broadcaster  Mariella Frostrup with actress Gina Bellman (Leverage, Coupling, Jekyll) tackle taboo and truth in Cracking the Menopause (Teviot).

Podcast fans can also catch Chris & Lizzie Hall: Stay Hydrated LIVE! (Teviot), alongside drag superstar Tia Kofi (RuPaul’s Drag Race) with The Final FronTia Live (The Gilded Saloon) and The BBC’s daily news podcast Newscast (Gilded Balloon at the Museum) sees Adam Fleming joined live by friends and special guests to talk about the big news of the day.

CABARET & VARIETY

Multi-talented performers shine in a vibrant cabaret offering, including Tom Read Wilson: A–Z of Me (Gilded Balloon at the Museum), blending storytelling, music and theatrical flair. Sarah McGuinness turns the lens on herself in Grit, Glitter and Gaslight (Teviot), a powerful and personal mix of story and song exploring identity, family and survival. Camelton (Teviot) from award-winning writer Stephen Cole is a hilariously true tale of writing a musical for the Emir of Qatar, a wildly entertaining journey featuring Brooklyn Jews, Middle Eastern producers, flying carpets, acrobats, ballet dancers and, of course, a lot of camels.

THEATRE

The programme features a powerful and diverse theatre programme tackling big themes with bold storytelling.

Highlights include Hecuba: Why Am I In Your Country? (Teviot), an Offie-nominated solo show exploring exile and identity, and NON-HUMAN ANIMAL by Kat Woods (Teviot) is a dark Irish comedy interrogating grief and justice.

New work includes Big Dog, from the makers of last years’ hit play Seating Plan,

(Patter House), a sharp exploration of true crime culture and ethics, and The Shit Table (Teviot) is a fast-paced black comedy set at the worst wedding table imaginable.

New play Steak Out (Teviot), by Edinburgh writer, actor and comedian Ruiraidh Murray delivers a gritty, high-energy heist story, while A Public Display of Affection (Patter House) offers a raw and unsentimental reflection on queer history and identity. Further theatre highlights include Broke & Fabulous in the 21st Century (Patter House), a riotous dramedy celebrating friendship, ambition and modern love, and Hater (Patter House), a sharp and poignant story of identity, obsession and unexpected transformation.

MUSIC, MUSICALS & OPERA

At Patter House musical comedy and parody take centre stage with a bold and irreverent line-up.

Expect outrageous fun from Crapp’s River, a musical parody of a beloved TV phenomenon,  the high-energy workplace satire HR The Musical and Endometriosis: The Musical, a bold, award-winning and unexpectedly funny show tackling a chronic condition through song. 

For fans of cheeky, high-camp comedy, Heated Rivalry: The Musical Parody! and Puck Bunnies deliver outrageous, laugh-out-loud takes on the hit show Heated Rivalry, romance and pop culture.

Acclaimed musical comedian Alexis Sakellaris returns with the heartfelt, queer musical comedy celebrating pop divas and fandom A STAN IS BORN! – Encore and brings a new work in progress show CHILD STAR exploring his experience on German Glee with new original songs, unearthed footage and the cringiest moments.

And Grammy award winning musician and songwriter Michelle Shocked returns to the Fringe with her latest show Bootleg This! blending music and memoir in a unique live performance.

FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SHOWS

Family audiences are well catered for with imaginative, accessible work for all ages.

Shhh! (A Wordless Comedy) (Teviot) delivers a visually rich, universally accessible journey inspired by classic silent comedy, while The Letterman (Teviot) combines clowning, puppetry and audience interaction in a joyful theatrical experience from award-winning clown Bryce Flint-Somerville (Blue Man Group, Barroz) . Children’s shows continue with Owl at Home (Teviot), a warm and witty story about embracing life’s surprises; Vasthy and Friends: Sing, Dance, Play! (Patter House), an interactive celebration of music, movement and imagination; and The Kobold Show! (Patter House), a playful, physical theatre adventure inspired by fantasy and tabletop gaming.

GAMING / INTERACTIVE SHOWS

Interactive and gaming-inspired shows bring playful, unpredictable energy to the programme. Highlights include Extra Lives: The Interactive Video Game Concert (Patter House), a live-scored audience RPG where every decision shapes the story; Shit Arcade 

(Teviot), where comedians battle through the worst video games ever made; and Blood on the Clocktower: Live (Teviot), the sell-out game show of bluffing and betrayal hosted by Jon Gracey.

Also great fun is IKEA WARS (Patter House), a chaotic, high-stakes flat-pack building showdown that turns home improvement into competitive theatre.

EMERGING VOICES & FRINGE DISCOVERY

Gilded Balloon continues its commitment to nurturing new talent with platforms like Story Platform (The Gilded Saloon), an evolving live event showcasing emerging Scottish writers and performers across comedy, music and spoken word coming to Fringe following a triumphant series of year-round performances at The Gilded Saloon.

This latest announcement further cements Gilded Balloon’s reputation as one of the Fringe’s most exciting and diverse comedy and entertainment producers, with more shows still to be revealed.

Karen and Katy Koren, Artistic Directors at Gilded Balloon comment on the latest batch of shows: “It’s been a mammoth year of programming for us and we can’t thank the wonderful artists enough who we are delighted to be welcoming to Gilded Balloon this summer across our venues.

“The productions coming to the festival continue to push boundaries and we are thrilled to have artists presenting work that will make you laugh, cry, and everything in between. It’s going to be a very exciting Fringe here at Gilded Balloon.”

Tickets for all newly announced shows are on sale from 12pm on 5th May at:

https://tickets.gildedballoon.co.uk/

Gilded Balloon announces a bumper programme of new shows now on sale for the 2026 Edinburgh Fringe

105 new shows across comedy, theatre, musicals, cabaret, variety and children’s shows go on sale today from Gilded Balloon, marking its biggest on sale to date, with more programme announcements still to come.

On sale from 12pm, Monday 30th March

 tickets.gildedballoon.co.uk 

These newly announced shows form part of a wide-ranging 2026 Edinburgh Festival Fringe programme, bringing together leading names, rising stars and international artists. From big nights out to thoughtful theatre and side-splittingly clever comedy, August at Gilded Balloon offers something for all ages and tastes.

Karen and Katy Koren, Artistic Directors of Gilded Balloon, said: “We’re delighted to be putting a further 105 brilliant shows on sale as part of this year’s Fringe programme, with even more still to be announced.

“This line-up brings together some of the most exciting talent working today alongside the next generation of performers, and truly reflects the breadth and energy of the Fringe.”

The programme brings together established names including Gregor Fisher, Phil Nichol (returning with two shows), The Guilty Feminist and Rich Hall, alongside a strong wave of new voices making their Fringe debuts. Rising talent includes includes Madeleine Brettingham, Adi Parmar, Fab Goualin, Hannah Byczkowski and Shane Daniel Byrne, while Gilded Balloon continues its commitment to Scottish artists with debut shows from Eva Peroni and Alan Jay, and returning favourites Kim Blythe and Kathleen Hughes. The programme also features new Scottish music and theatre, including Crocodile Rock and a range of bold new productions across the theatre programme.

Gilded Balloon’s legendary shows return for 2026. Late’n’Live is back as the original late-night show, featuring stellar line-ups of your favourite acts from across the festival, hosted by some of the best MCs in the country every night.

Described as “The best late-night show on the Fringe” (Scotsman) and “A Fringe institution for a reason” (TheRecs.co.uk), previous acts have included Johnny Vegas, Bill Bailey, Rich Hall, Jason Byrne, Mawaan Rizwan, John Bishop, Larry Dean, Maisie Adam, Reuben Kaye, Jordan Grey and Viggo Venn. Late’n’Live remains an essential addition to any Fringe bucket list.

Best Of So You Think You’re Funny? returns with an unmissable line-up of fresh talent, including finalists Reb Day, Joel Walker and Rachel Porter, offering audiences the chance to see the best emerging comedians before they become household names.

So You Think You’re Funny? Heats continue the search for comedy’s next big star, as contestants compete for a place in the final of the UK’s biggest newcomer competition. Previous winners include Peter Kay, Aisling Bea, Sara Pascoe and Lee Mack.

Comedy highlights includeGregor Fisher: An (Early) Evening With Gregor Fisher, where the Scottish stage and screen legend shares stories from his life and career; Madeleine Brettingham: Legend, the debut show from the So You Think You’re Funny? 2025 winner exploring myth, identity and growing up in a world of booze-soaked bad behaviour; and Rich Hall: Chin Music, a typically sharp, improvisational hour from the acclaimed comedian.

The Guilty Feminist, hosted by Deborah Frances-White, brings its Road to Gilead Project to the Fringe, alongside rising Scots comedy star Kim Blythe: Puzzle, following a sold-out 2025 run, and Smack The Pony’s Fiona Allen: White Lies, a sharply observed new show about social anxiety and human interaction.

Further highlights include Kathleen Hughes: Twig, exploring family and legacy; Reuben Solo: Someone in This Crowd Will Betray Me [Revenge Edition], a chaotic, high-concept return; and two shows from Phil Nichol, with a brand-new work Aren’t We Lucky and the 20th anniversary of his Edinburgh Comedy Award-winning The Naked Racist.

New additions to the programme include Comedy Night at the Museum, a Gilded Balloon production bringing together top international comedians for a wholly improvised late-night show inspired by real artefacts from the National Museum of Scotland; Shane Daniel Byrne: Baby It’s Time, showcasing one of Ireland’s fastest-rising comedic voices; and Christian Dart: GUMSHOE!, a multi award-nominated, sell-out hit blending noir parody with high-energy character comedy.

Rising voices and distinctive perspectives continue across the programme with Adi Parmar: Sunny Boy, Alan Jay: Hell Hath No Humour Like a Gayboy Scorned, Eva Peroni: Jungledand Fab Goualin: Mixed Messages, alongside Hannah Byczkowski: Killer, a darkly comic debut from the winner of The Traitors, and Aoife Dunne: Good Grief,returning after a sell-out run. Emmy and Golden Globe-winning comedian Guy Branum brings Be Fruitful, a bold, thought-provoking hour blending humour with social commentary.

Theatre highlights include SLAY, a darkly funny and unflinching exploration of trauma, therapy and modern coping mechanisms, andSilent Disco, an inventive, headphone-led experience blending psychology and music.

Further standout work includes HESS, Michael Burrell’s powerful and timely revival exploring the psychology of extremism and its lasting impact, and Broke & Fabulous in the 21st Century,a riotous, raunchy dramedy celebrating friendship, ambition and modern love.

Other theatre shows on sale today include Ostrich, a sharp look at modern dating and identity; Top Gunchained, a high-energy parody from the team behind Yippee Ki Yay; Boy in a Box, a confronting and urgent piece examining race and identity in America; and Waiting For Wonka, a darkly comic reimagining of childhood nostalgia.

Themed shows bring a mix of interactive and late-night entertainment, includingThe Thinking Drinkers’ Great British Pub Ride, an epic, drink-fuelled journey from Land’s End to John O’Groats; Dreamgun Film Reads, where comedians perform unrehearsed parody versions of classic films; and Not Another Quiz Night, a high-energy, chaotic late-night favourite.

Cabaret and variety sees Fake, a critically acclaimed blend of magic, storytelling and illusion from Chris Cook that explores truth, deception and identity; EIGHT: The One (Wo)Man Drag King Musical Parody, a high-energy, genre-bending musical comedy reimagining Henry VIII through drag, parody and pop and Fungasm: Save or Smash offers up bold, interactive performance.

Music and musicals range from nostalgic fun to powerful storytelling, including Crocodile Rock, a touching coming-of-age musical set on Cumbrae; Primary School Bangers, a high-energy singalong experience; Unheard Voices, Unbroken Spirits, a new musical exploring the Scottish care system; and Antigone: A Town Hall Musical, a contemporary retelling of a classic tragedy.

Also featured is Charlene Kaye: Diversity Shredder, introducing audiences to the unhinged, razor-sharp world of Charlene Kaye — guitar god, internet legend and “breakout comedy star” (Rolling Stone), alongside Siobhan Wilson: Flowercore, an immersive performance celebrating Scotland’s wildflowers through music and visual art.

Children’s and family shows include Max Fulham’s Monkey Business, a lively, family-friendly mix of puppetry, sketches and slapstick comedy and Mama G: The Magic Bookmark comes to Teviot. “Everyone’s favourite pantomime dame!” (Metro) and Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist Mama G discovers the magic of books and the power of being yourself in this hilarious award-winning panto adventure for the whole family! 

Bring Yer Bairn Comedy is the adult comedy show where you can bring yer bairn! A selection of our favourite comics from the Scottish scene and beyond, performing to parents, carers and bairns under 15 months old! The perfect morning show!

All shows will take place across Gilded Balloon’s four venues this August, including the welcome return to Teviot, alongside Patter House and Gilded Balloon at the Museum, as well as the newly added Gilded Saloon, GB’s year-round pub and live venue.

It’s set to be a very pink summer!

Further programme announcements will follow in the coming months. For full listings visit www.gildedballoon.co.uk or follow @gildedballoon.

Gilded Balloon is one of Scotland’s leading and best-loved entertainment producers, presenting a cross-genre programme annually at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and touring productions across the UK throughout the year.

Book online from 12pm TODAY 30th March at tickets.gildedballoon.co.uk 

or call Tel: 0131 622 6552

Madeleine Brettingham wins So You Think You’re Funny? 2025

Karen & Katy Koren and the Gilded Balloon are delighted to announce Madeleine Brettingham as winner of the 38th edition of So You Think You’re Funny? – the UK’s most prestigious comedy newcomer competition. 

Reb Day and Joel Walker came second and third place respectively, coming out top from over 435 initial applications and entertaining a sold out crowd at this year’s final at Appleton Tower, hosted by all-star MC Laura Lexx.

Following hilarious heats across the UK, comic Madeleine Brettingham claimed the crown for this year’s competition after a judging panel including special guest judge Doon Mackichan (Comedian and TV Star) plus Angela Squire (Artistic Director of the Kilkenny Cat Laughs Comedy Festival), Bruce Dessau (Editor of Beyond the Joke), Arusa Qureshi (Editor of Fest Mag), Julia Chamberlain (So You Think You’re Funny? Producer) as well as Karen and Katy Koren (Artistic Directors of Gilded Balloon) watched 7 minute sets from all 10 finalists, before convening to choose the winner. 

Since it began in 1988, previous winners of SYTYF? have included Aisling Bea, Maisie Adam, Ivo Graham, Tommy Tiernan, Alana Jackson, David O’Doherty and more, with the competition renowned for kickstarting the careers of dozens of the UK’s top comics and providing essential support to comedy newcomers. 

Madeleine Brettingham is a writer-turned-performer who, after years of avoiding the spotlight, tried stand-up when a famous comedian appeared in a dream and told her to. Against all odds, it turned out to be pretty solid advice. She lives in London.

Madeleine Brettingham and Doon Mackichan – credit Steve Ullathorne

Karen & Katy Koren and the So You Think You’re Funny? team would like to offer a huge congratulations to 2025’s finalists (in alphabetical order) : 

Joel Walker – second runner up 

Madeleine Brettingham – winner 

Noni

Oro Rose

Peter Josip

Qasim Akhtar

Rachel Porter

Reb Day – first runner up 

Sean Chalmers

Valeria Vulpe

Katy and Karen Koren, Artistic Directors of Gilded Balloon and So You Think You’re Funny? said: “Huge congratulations to Madeleine Brettingham – 2025’s fantastic winner of So You Think You’re Funny?

“This year’s competition was extremely competitive with over 435 applications, so it’s an outstanding feat for these 10 finalists from across the UK to have made it this far and perform in front of our sold out crowd tonight.

“Each year it’s fantastic to see so many So You Think You’re Funny? alumni return to the Fringe to make their debut or take part in mixed bill runs. 2024’s winner Alana Jackson has had a huge sold out run with us this August, as well as brilliant shows from the likes of Sophia Wren, Christopher Donovan, our Best of So You Think You’re Funny acts and many more. 

“A massive thank you to every comic who entered the competition this year, and all our esteemed judges who joined us at heats across the UK to ensure we could provide a platform to some of the very best new up and coming comedians in the country.

“We’ve all been blown away by the talent on display tonight and we’re sure they will go on to do wonderful things!”

Celebrity guest judge Doon Mackichan said: “I’m absolutely bowled over and amazed at the talent tonight – it was a really difficult decision and such a high standard. I laughed at every single person, but we had to make a decision.

“This is brutal – it’s worse than The Voice and X Factor!”

Judges who chose this year’s finalists included: special guest judge Doon Mackichan, journalists Arusa Qureshi and Bruce Dessau, plus Katy and Karen Koren and more. 

Since it began in 1988, So You Think You’re Funny? has kick-started the careers of dozens of the country’s top comics including Dylan Moran, Peter Kay, Maisie Adam, Rhod Gilbert, Tommy Tiernan and many more.

It is the longest running and most established comedy competition of its kind, solely funded by Gilded Balloon without external sponsors.

 This year’s winner will receive…

  • A cash prize.
  • A fully paid for solo show (or mixed bill) run as part of the Gilded Balloon’s Fringe programme.
  • Up to 4 mentorship meetings (virtual or in person) with Channel 4’s Comedy Commissioning team in the year following the final.
  • A paid performance slot in the Comedy Arena and weekend pass at Latitude Festival in the year following the competition thanks to Festival Republic.
  • Opportunity to perform at Cat Laughs comedy festival in Kilkenny, Ireland (subject to programmer approval and slot availability)
  • Opportunity to perform at Glasgow International Comedy Festival (subject to programmer approval and slot availability)
  • Opportunity to take part in Soho Theatre’s Soho Labs programme in the year following the final.
  • Other paid performance slots at the UK’s best comedy clubs including the Glee Club, the Boat Show and more. 
  • Complimentary headshot photoshoot by professional photographer to the stars, Steve Ullathorne.
  • Complimentary filmed copy and professional photographs of their spot from the Final to use in their show-reel.
  • Mentorship and support from Karen and Katy Koren, Artistic Directors at Gilded Balloon and Julia Chamberlain, the So You Think You’re Funny? producer for over 20 years.

There are also prizes for the runners-up including;

  • A cash prize for the first and second runner up.
  • Potential to be invited to take part in a fully paid for mixed bill show as part of Gilded Balloon’s Fringe programme.
  • Mentorship and support from Karen and Katy Koren and Julia Chamberlain, the So You Think You’re Funny? producer.

For more information on So You Think You’re Funny? visit:

 www.soyouthinkyourefunny.co.uk 

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 

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.

Gilded Balloon launches Postcode Pals with £6 tickets for local residents

OVER 125 SHOWS WILL OFFER £6 DISCOUNTED TICKETS TO RESIDENTS ACROSS EDINBURGH, FIFE AND MORE 

REDUCED TICKETS NOW ON SALE 

tickets.gildedballoon.co.uk/login/

After a successful inaugural run in 2024, Edinburgh Fringe venue Gilded Balloon has relaunched its Postcode Pals scheme, offering local residents discounted tickets for some of the Festival’s biggest and best shows.

Over 125 shows will offer £6 tickets for residents across Edinburgh and the Lothians, Fife and Falkirk including Alana Jackson, Caroline Rhea, Jack Docherty in The Chief, Kim Blythe, Rosie O’Donnell and many more. 

This year’s programme celebrates Gilded Balloon’s 40th Fringe, with household names returning alongside a lineup of newcomers and fresh talent.  And now, Postcode Pals will ensure local residents can grab discounts for the very best Fringe shows for the first few days of the Festival, whether planning a family day out, late night comedy or thrilling theatre. 

Postcode Pals runs from now until 6pm Tuesday 29th July for residents in EH, KY and FK postcodes. Valid for select shows from 30th July – 3rd August

 tickets.gildedballoon.co.uk/login/

Thousands of tickets across Gilded Balloon’s varied programme of comedy, theatre, magic, kids, musicals and more will be discounted for a limited time only. Locals have from now until 29th July to claim their Postcode Pals tickets, with a limited number of tickets available for each performance and subject to availability. This scheme enables local residents to see some of the Fringe’s top shows in the very first few days of the world’s biggest arts festival, with discounted tickets available for performances from 30th July to 3rd August. 

Ts&Cs: £6 tickets (plus handling fees) for cards registered to addresses from EH, KY and FK postcodes via Gilded Balloon website only.  Offer available to purchase from 12pm 14th July – 6pm 29th July. Discounted tickets for participating shows from 30th July – 3rd August, subject to availability. Max 2 per show, max 6 per transaction. Log in to Gilded Balloon website and use PALS25 at checkout to unlock discount. 

For the ultimate family day out, locals can enjoy a lineup of fantastic family-friendly entertainment from world-class performers like Lindsey Cole and Mark Thompson, as well as interactive shows like Woody’s Bush Cabaret for Kids and A.L.Ex & the ImproBots: How to Train Your Robot, which are sure to keep the kids (and parents) entertained!

Postcode Pals can secure tickets to some of the Fringe’s top comedians including Jack Docherty in The Chief, Rosie O’Donnell’s first Fringe, TikTok star Kim Blythe, rising star Alana Jackson, local comic Michael Welch and Aunt Hilda herself, Caroline Rhea. They can also enjoy some top-tier comedy from abroad, including New Zealand funny girl Sarah Bradley in Just Like Other Girls and NYC comic Liz Coin’s show Lizzy Sunshine. 

For pals who are more on the adventurous side, Gilded Balloon’s interactive shows will keep you on the edge of your seat, and sometimes bring you onto the stage! Some exciting additions to the programme this year are IKEA WARS, which challenges two comedians to build Ikea furniture on stage in a race against the clock, Married at Fringe Sight, a Fringe dating show that ends with a marriage, as well as some show-stopping tricks at 1 Hour of Insane Magic. 

Postcode Pals can also bag discounted tickets for some of the most exciting new theatre at this year’s festival, including Gail Watson in Faye’s Red Lines and EastEnders star Michelle Collins in her new show, Motorhome Marilyn. For the musically inclined, Arthur Hull’s FLOP and Midnight at the Palace are two that can’t be missed.

Katy and Karen Koren, Artistic Directors of Gilded Balloon said, “We’re excited to launch a second year of Postcode Pals and release thousands of discounted tickets for some of our very best shows to ensure local residents don’t miss out on Fringe fun. 

“With the world’s largest arts festival on our doorstep, it’s important as locals that we embrace it and we hope Postcode Pals helps local residents to get involved, grab a bargain and see some big names, or maybe take a chance on someone new!

“With £6 tickets running across all three of our venues, there’s shows on offer for all types of Fringe fans – from the littlest members of your family to comedy fans, theatregoers and more.”

Gilded Balloon’s ‘Pals in Pink’ will welcome audiences from around the world as staff transform all three venues (Appleton Tower, Patter House and the National Museum of Scotland) into fabulously pink hubs of creativity with acts from every genre descending during the month of August.

Postcode Pals gives local residents even more incentive to start their Fringe wish lists early so they can take advantage of this great opportunity to see some of the biggest shows of the year at the start of their runs.

Tickets on sale now via  www.tickets.gildedballoon.co.uk 

Gilded Balloon wraps up 2024 Fringe with over 128,000 tickets issued

OVER 128,912 TICKETS ISSUED AND 2484 PERFORMANCES FOR GILDED BALLOON’S 39TH FRINGE

One of Edinburgh Festival Fringe’s longest running venues, Gilded Balloon, has rounded off their 39th Fringe season, with over 128,912 tickets issued this month.

Operating in three venues including Patter House, the National Museum of Scotland and Edinburgh Street Food, Gilded Balloon’s programme hosted some of the biggest hits of the Fringe including Mhairi Black’s debut, a sold out run for Andy Gray tribute Chemo Savvy, and debuts from rising stars like Kim Blythe and Chris Weir. 

In a year which saw Gilded Balloon operate without their main venue Teviot Row House due to refurbishment, 2024’s Fringe Festival saw an impressive: 

  • over 128,914 tickets issued in 2024
  • 2484 performances from 31st July – 26th August 
  • 3 venues: Patter House, National Museum of Scotland and Edinburgh Comedy Social at Edinburgh Street Food 
  • 131 shows in 12 sub venues 
  • 1213 Support the Artist tickets sold – customers choosing to give an extra £2 per ticket which goes directly to artists
  • 440 sold out shows 
  • over 86 comedy shows, 23 theatre and music shows, plus a mix of kids shows, cabaret, spoken word and more 
  • 1 brand new So You Think You’re Funny? champion with Glaswegian Alana Jackson claiming this year’s crown alongside Ciara O’Connor and Ayo Adenekan in second and third place respectively. The three comics came out on top from an impressive 597 original applicants 
  • Khawla Ibraheem awarded the Filipa Bragança Award for her performance in Oliver Butler’s A Knock on the Roof
  • over 1500 cans of Gilded Balloon’s very own ‘Hiya Pals’ IPA from local brewers Newbarns
  • 1 new pop up bar, Lucky Penny, welcomed some of Edinburgh’s best foodies to the city with pop-ups from Spitaki’s, Alby’s and more
  • 1 new charity partner with this year’s Pink Wednesday charity day raising money for Waverley Care 

Karen and Katy Koren, Artistic Directors of Gilded Balloon said, “2024 was another fantastic year, and Gilded Balloon’s 39th, at Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

“We welcomed over 128,912 people to our venues to see some outstanding shows across comedy, theatre, musical and kids, as well as sell out runs for Scottish shows including Mhairi Black: Politics Isn’t For Me, Chemo Savvy and Jack Docherty in The Chief. We’ve cemented schemes like Support the Artist, which puts money back in our artists’ pockets and even introduced our own pop up bar this year in collaboration with local brewery Newbarns. 

“Our first year in over 23 years without our main venue Teviot Row House has, of course, seen changes to our capacity and amount of shows we could programme, so we’re really looking forward to returning for Fringe 2025. Next year will be Gilded Balloon’s 40th anniversary and we have some hugely exciting plans in the works for returning to a refreshed and refurbished Teviot Row House. 

“We’re also so proud to have crowned Glaswegian Alana Jackson as this year’s outstanding winner of So You Think You’re Funny? alongside Ciara O’Connor and Ayo Adenekan in second and third place. From 597 applicants to 10 finalists, it was a fiercely competitive year and, as ever, SYTYF? is a real bright spark for us as comedy producers with so many talented newcomers on the scene. 

“However, in a time of constant cuts facing the arts scene, the future of competitions like SYTYF? are precarious and it’s harder than ever for new artists to make their way in the industry.

“We’d like to say a huge thanks to everybody who has supported our artists this year by buying a ticket to their shows this Fringe – it’s more important than ever to support artists where you can, and we’ll see you next year for a pinktastic celebration back at Teviot!” 

Gilded Balloon’s 2024 Fringe programme saw debuts from rising comedy stars like Nate Kitch, Kathleen Hughes, Chris Weir, Kim Blythe, and Christopher Hall, as well as mainstays of the comedy scene like Jack Docherty, Michelle Brasier and Grace Campbell.

The month included sold out runs for Mhairi Black’s debut show, Paul Black’s brand new show,  and Chemo Savvy, the emotional comedy-play in tribute to Andy Gray. Plus, Fringe stars like Hypnotist Matt Hale and magician Cameron Young entertained audiences throughout August, whilst Gilded Balloon’s legendary Late’n’Live was once against hosted by an all-female and non-binary line-up, welcoming the very best acts from across the Fringe to the late night show