Edinburgh Festival Fringe venue Underbelly enjoyed a great start to the annual festival, with crowds entertained by lots of different genres at the world’s largest arts festival.
There’s something for everyone to enjoy at Underbelly’s venues this Fringe, including circus, late night comedy, children’s entertainers, award-winning theatre and dazzling dance. Here’s a taste of the incredible talent on offer that’s been entertaining audiences at Underbelly’s venue hubs at Bristo Square, George Square Gardens, Circus Hub and Cowgate.
5. Mario the Maker Magician
Mario the Maker Magician brings a family show full of original magic, handmade robots, and modern slapstick. Fast-paced, interactive, and full of heart, the ever-endearing Mario leads you through a romping explosion of contagious energy and belly laughs. For kids, adults, families; everyone! Mario brings his show to Edinburgh for the very first time. As seen on Sesame Street, Universal Kids, and live on tour with David Blaine Underbelly, George Square (Udderbelly) 10.55am. Weekend: August 18-20, 25-27 (£13.50 / £12.50). Weekday: August 15-17, 21-24 (£12.50 / £11.50) Photo: Ian Georgeson
6. Sophie’s Surprise 29th
Sophie is turning 29 and we’re celebrating! Imagine if Take That never broke up, Cirque du Soleil had sunstroke and No. 10 actually knew how to throw a party. This interactive circus & cabaret show is stumbling into Circus Hub with its Fringe debut, featuring world-class performers from Cirque du Soleil, Britain's Got Talent and more. Expect twilight fan fiction, unicycling drug dealers and death-defying feats. Put on your acid wash jeans and halter tops, the party starts at 9.45pm sharp - but remember, don’t tell Sophie. Underbelly’ Circus Hub on The Meadows (The Beauty), 9.45pm. Weekend: August 18-20, 24-26 (£17.50 / £16.50). Weekday: August, 15-17, 22-23 (£16.50 / £15.50). Photo: Ian Georgeson
7. The Revel Puck Circus: The Wing Scuffle Spectacular
Balancing atop a giant wheel, courageously diving from 15ft in the air, and somersaulting out of the path of a swinging chainsaw, join The Revel Puck Circus for their exhilarating Edinburgh Fringe debut this August. Bringing a heartfelt, hilarious and dangerous edge, the brightest young talent of the East London circus scene showcase incredible acrobatics, ridiculous physical comedy and the dizzying heights of the UK’s only teeterboard trio. Jam-packed with riotous and mind-blowing moments, this alternative homegrown circus company are a must-see for thrill-seekers young and old. Underbelly’s Circus Hub on the Meadows (The Lafayette), 4.10pm, Weekend: August 18-20, 24-26 (£17.50 / £16.50). Weekday: August 15-17, 22-23 (£15.50 / £14.50). Photo: Masha Biryukova
8. The 7 Fingers: Duel Reality
This is circus on a whole new theatrical level. The World Premiere of Duel Reality bursts into Circus Hub from The 7 Fingers, the company who created the hit show Passagers. Star crossed lovers. Two opposing teams. The stage is an arena. Competition can be playful at times, but also dangerously serious. Which side will you choose? Underbelly’s Circus Hub on the Meadows (The Lafayette), 8.30pm. Weekend: August 18-20, 25-26 (£21 / £20). Weekday: August 15-17, 22-24 (£18 / £17). Photo: Ian Georgeson