Honest, raw, and relentlessly dark. Shane Torres tackles family grief with sharp storytelling in Skinned Knees at Assembly Roxy.
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.
Review: The Shocking Truth About Flat Earth, Fringe 2026
As someone who has probably heard more about conspiracy theories online than I would like to, I was very curious about The Shocking Truth About Flat Earth. How would this subject be tackled in the form of a comedy musical? Turns out it was good fun!
Review: Sarah Roberts – Scary Movie 7, Fringe 2026
Draped in chains and unpacking a lifetime of loneliness, Sarah Roberts turns confessional trauma into pure late-night gold at Edinburgh Fringe. An absolute must-see at Monkey Barrel.
Review: Richard Stott – Streets Won’t Forget, Fringe 2026
The best punchlines often happen in the smallest rooms. Richard Stott’s new stand-up hour tackles identity and football metaphors with an empathetic touch that completely transforms a pop-up hut into a comedy goldmine.
Review: Irene Woo – Golden Child, Fringe 2026
What interview questions do female software developers get asked compared to men? Irene Woo tackles tech industry double standards and family expectations in her safe and pleasant new comedy set.
Review: Fatiha El-Ghorri – Cockney Stacking Doll, Fringe 2026
The queues outside Monkey Barrel are heaving for a reason. Fatiha El-Ghorri brings raw charisma to the stage to dismantle stereotypes and leave you feeling like you just spent an hour with a hilarious new best friend. You need to see this.
A review of John Robertson: Excitable Boy! Fringe 2026
I’ve heard good things about John Robertson. People queued early to make sure they got into this free show. That made me even more keen to find out what this show would be like. He didn’t disappoint, this was a chaotically entertaining hour!
Review: Burger and a Pint – Treats for the Soul, Fringe 2026
Ted Milligan and James Trickey bring infectious chemistry, fast sketches, and gentle audience fun to the Pleasance Cellar. A genuinely warm and funny hour of Fringe sketch comedy that hits the mark.