Review: Sexy Circus Sideshow 3.0, Fringe 2026

Burlesque, circus and freaky stuff is exactly my vibe, so I was really excited to get myself along to Fringe staple (of 25 years!) Sexy Circus Sideshow 3.0 at the Piccolo Tent, Assembly George Square Gardens.

Vibe

Fetish, burlesque cabaret with circus tricks and stunts! It’s important to remember this is described as a sexy circus sideshow – sideshow being the operative word. In other words, it’s definitely not a main circus event; it’s the other side that goes on in a little tent off to the side, which is exactly the sort of vibe the Piccolo Tent is giving off when we enter.

Upon managing your expectations, you’re treated to a fantoosh variety of acts; some sexy, some pretty damn weird, and occasionally leaning towards more old-fashioned circus.

The show itself

I get the impression Sexy Circus Sideshow 3.0 is a revolving door of different acts, which keeps the show fresh. We got to see a couple of fabulous fire acts and some more traditional burlesque – including two acts from Paris!.

There was also some very weird, freaky stuff by an act called Pipsy(?) involving milk, cookies, some tear ducts and… oh yeah, a real sword. It was announced that we wouldn’t ever have seen anything like it, and… yes, that was correct! That one definitely got a reaction out of me, although it was a little uncomfortable to watch.

On my night at Sexy Circus Sideshow 3.0, the standout performances were both by Oblivion Westwood, first with some incredible burlesque fire stunts, and then later with the aerial hair act – which was the absolute high point (quite literally!) of the night!

Only one act (performed by our host) fell a bit flat, requiring three attempts without giving us that much extra on the final try – the audience cheered him on anyway and it was all in good spirits. I consider myself adequately entertained.

Overall

As Sexy Circus Sideshow 3.0 doesn’t have the same performers on any given night, you can’t be sure what you’re going to get – which makes it exciting. What we do know is that it’s a beloved Edinburgh Fringe staple and something worth going along to if you want your sexy circus freaky fix.