Thousands of performers and tens of thousands of visitors are set to descend on Edinburgh in August for the world’s largest performance arts festival. Although the full line-up is yet to be announced, among the acts confirmed so far are comedians David O’Doherty, Rhod Gilbert, Rosie Jones, Paul Merton and Sara Pascoe. Also scheduled to appear at the festival are actor and comedian Bobby Davro, RuPaul’s Drag Race winner Lawrence Chaney, broadcaster Kaye Adams and Andy and Jamie Murray’s mum – tennis coach Judy Murray. Popular Fringe fixture The Lady Boys of Bangkok will appear at Festival Square this year, while actor Greg McHugh brings his much-loved Gary Tank Commander character to Edinburgh this year.
5. Rhod Gilbert
Legendary Welsh funnyman Rhod Gilbert will return to the Fringe Festival following his recent battle with cancer. He will perform at the Gilden Balloon Teviot Wine Bar at 8.45pm from August 21-23 and 25-27. Photo: PA
6. Paul Merton
A popular show at the Fringe for many years, Have I Got News for You star Paul Merton is back again with his Impro Chums for some hilarious improvisation comedy. Taking ideas from the audience, Paul and his chums soon have the audience in tears of laughter thanks to their quick wit and comedy genius. The Impro Chums are Paul Merton, Suki Webster, Richard Vranch, Kirsty Newton and Mike McShane. They will perform at the Grand in Pleasance Courtyard from August 10-20 at 3.30pm. Photo: Steven Scott Taylor/ National World
7. Frank Skinner
The Gordon Aikman Theatre at Assembly George Square will host the highly anticipated brand-new hour from comic legend Frank Skinner, running from Augsut 3-8, 10-15, 17-22 and 24-27, at 8.50pm. Photo: Ian Gavan/ Getty
8. Iain Dale
LBC presenter Iain Dale hosts a series of discussion events at Pleasance, with guests including Peter Tatchell, Alex Salmond, Harriet Harman MP, Humza Yousaf MSP, Peter Hitchens, Polly Toynbee and Jeremy Corbyn. His All Talk show will take place 27 times at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre at 1pm and 4pm throughout August on various dates. Photo: Steve Ullathorne