Braving Storm Dave for Game of Crones at the Traverse was well worth the effort. A&E Comedy offers a madcap, surreal defiance of ageing that is as visually striking as it is ferociously funny. A chaotic but charismatic 3.5 star odyssey.
Comedy in Edinburgh
Edinburgh boasts a vibrant and deeply-rooted comedy scene that thrives throughout the year, anchored by legendary venues such as The Stand Comedy Club, a proving ground for countless famous comedians, alongside the multi-award-winning Monkey Barrel Comedy and the ever-popular Just the Tonic, which all provide a consistent programme of top-tier stand-up.
However, this thriving year-round culture is merely the prelude to the comedic explosion that occurs each August during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The city transforms into the undisputed global epicentre of comedy, as thousands of performers—from household names testing new material to ambitious newcomers seeking their big break—descend upon the capital, turning every conceivable space from grand theatres to cramped pub basements into a performance venue. This month-long comedy marathon creates an unparalleled atmosphere of creative energy, solidifying Edinburgh's reputation as the ultimate destination for performers and fans of live humour.
Interview: Daliso Chaponda brings satire and ‘soft facts’ to Monkey Barrel
Daliso Chaponda brought Topical Storm to Edinburgh as his sharp satire examines the chaos of 2026 journalism. The comedian discusses why modern politics makes joke writing almost too easy and shares why the Grassmarket remains his true local spot in the capital.
Review: Ian Smith – Foot Spa Half Empty
Don’t let the green outfit fool you; Ian Smith is a seasoned pro. His latest tour is a riotous exploration of caution and charisma. With a diverse appeal and sharp audience work, Smith delivers one of the funniest hours on the circuit today.
Radar: New arts venue The Gilded Saloon announces packed autumn programme
More than just comedy. Edinburgh’s Gilded Saloon reveals an autumn programme with magic, cult film nights, Dungeons & Dragons, and even Lego for adults.
Review: Courtney Buchner: Big, If True – Fringe 2025
A brilliantly constructed show about the very nature of truth in storytelling. Courtney Buchner’s performance is a slow burn that rewards your attention with a stunningly clever and hilarious final punchline that makes it all worthwhile.
Review: Marc Jennings – Bread and Circuses, Fringe 2025
Marc Jennings’ latest show, Bread and Circuses, has a big goal: to hide a sharp critique of modern society inside an hour of clever, deadpan stand-up.
Review: Vittorio Angelone: you can’t Say Nothing any more, Fringe 2025
Vittorio Angelone delivers a brilliant and brave performance, tackling “culture war” topics with nuance and razor-sharp wit. He questions whether comedians have a duty to speak out, using his own unique perspective to craft a show that is both deeply personal and universally relevant.
Review: Jo Caulfield – Bad Mood Rising, Fringe 2025
A bad mood never felt so good! Jo Caulfield, an Edinburgh local, expertly balances humour and anger in her show Bad Mood Rising. She’s got a loyal following for a reason: her caustic wit and relatable anecdotes are simply brilliant. Highly recommended.