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Edinburgh Fringe, Barcelona comedy festivals, and live comedy events across the continent.
Whimsical shortlist announced for Edinburgh comedy award 2026
The Edinburgh comedy award 2026 has announced its shortlist, featuring a diverse range of eccentric acts, including TV veteran Spencer Jones and returning nominee Lara Ricote. The list showcases a whimsical mix of comedy styles, from an act's belief in healing crystals to a show about "mystery and messages", promising an entertaining and quirky lineup.
The Guardian · 26 Aug 2026
Max Olesker: Making the Cut review – up close and personal account of comic’s religious conversion
Comedian Max Olesker's solo show "Making the Cut" at the Pleasance Dome in Edinburgh offers a personal and nuanced account of his journey to becoming an Orthodox Jew to marry his partner. The show, based on his memoir, recounts his lengthy and unconventional path to conversion, which involves sacrificing many of his previous habits and freedoms.
The Guardian · 26 Aug 2026
Jess Fuchs: Feral review – a debut with tremendous oomph from a future comedy star
Australian comedian Jess Fuchs is making waves at the Edinburgh Festival with her debut show "Feral", delivering a high-energy performance that's full of sharp wit and home truths. This promising young comedian's cynical humor is firing on all cylinders, making her a standout at the Pleasance Courtyard in Edinburgh.
The Guardian · 26 Aug 2026
Camping trips, grief and embarrassing your kids – the fringe shows embracing every facet of fatherhood
In a hilarious and heartwarming display of fatherly tribulations, comedians Whisper Theatre, Lightning Rod Special, and Olaf Falafel are taking the Edinburgh Fringe by storm with their raw and relatable shows about the ups and downs of fatherhood. Their unapologetic and often cringe-worthy performances are shedding light on the joys and embarrassments that come with being a dad, making audiences laugh and nod in recognition.
The Guardian · 25 Aug 2026
Frankie Thompson: Horrible Things review – a show to make you shudder with laughter
At the Pleasance Courtyard in Edinburgh, Frankie Thompson's comedy show "Horrible Things" is a wild and unsettling performance that delves into the darker corners of her and the audience's recollections. This work-in-regress, which combines clowning and performance art, features a range of bizarre and humorous scenarios, including a child version of Jacob Rees-Mogg and Frank Sinatra's ego in space.
The Guardian · 24 Aug 2026
Those People review – a double act with raw passion and no filter
At the Pleasance Courtyard in Edinburgh, Lara Ciulli and Riana White deliver a gripping hour of comedy, leaving the audience wondering if they're just friends or something more. Their energetic and unfiltered performance, which blends sketch comedy, dance, and confessional elements, is reminiscent of the highly charged sibling rivalry seen in past double-act duos.
The Guardian · 24 Aug 2026
On Different Grounds review – Cupid’s-conspiracy romcom brings Nollywood and Bollywood together
In a romantic comedy event that brings together the film industries of Nollywood and Bollywood, Mildred Okwo's film "On Different Grounds" explores the conflicting romantic wishes in a Nigerian family. Although it may not be the first true collaboration, the film's blending of the two industries' values and grand gestures offers a promising premise that struggles to connect with its audience.
The Guardian · 24 Aug 2026