In our latest round-up of shows at this year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe, we’re taking a look at the top theatre shows in town in just a matter of weeks time.
From the award-winning producers of Fleabag and Baby Reindeer, I’m Almost There by New York star of stage and screen Todd Almond (Girl From The North Country, Gossip Girl ) is a rueful, hilarious and poignant modern love story in song about a man crossing a sea of doubts to find happiness…and good coffee. There are also thought-provoking plays about Palestine and a theatre/ concert show about Mary Queen of Scots. Mary: A Gig Theatre show is a stirring depiction of Mary Queen of Scots' story, told through bold, new gig theatre.
There is also the world premiere of new play V.L. from award-winning writers Kieran Hurley and Gary McNair. V.L. is another raucous and riotous comedy from the Fringe First Award-winning writers of Edinburgh Festival smash-hit Square Go, about young boys trying to navigate peer pressures, sexual anxieties, and social status in the chaotic hormonal pressure cooker of a small-town school.
5. A Giant on the Bridge
A Giant on the Bridge is a compelling new gig-theatre event from some of Scotland's top indie musicians, co-created with with Fringe First-winning theatre-maker Liam Hurley, starring Jo Mango, Admiral Fallow frontman Louis Abbott, Ravelo and Solareye. Fusing acoustic songwriting, Scottish hip hop and original true-life storytelling, A Giant on the Bridge explores the complex journey of coming home from prison and was inspired by the voices of those affected by and working within Scotland's system of imprisonment. Part of the prestigious Made in Scotland showcase, the show will run at Assembly Roxy Central, August 2-18 at 10.40am. £12.50 and £14.50. | Ruth Marsh Photo: Ruth Marsh
6. I Sell Windows
I Sell Windows is one black woman's exploration of what is birthed at the collision of grief, ambition and sex. Confronted with the unexpected death of a loved one, Kacie grapples with questions of identity, purpose and forgiveness in the days leading up to the funeral. Asking herself what she can, or even deserves to, become. Kacie invites audiences into her dreams, her therapy sessions, childhood memories, complicated thoughts and a few shifts at the weirdest job she’s ever had – selling windows at a farmer’s market. I Sell Windows, Assembly George Square Studios (Studio Four), August 1-25 (not 7th or 13th), 4pm. Tickets £14. | Jonny Marlow Photo: Jonny Marlow
7. Lynn Faces
Brand new show from Fringe First Award Winner Laura Horton. Lynn Faces is a play about the aftermath and effects of an abusive relationship – all through the lens of Laura’s long-time identification with Lynn Benfield (the long suffering assistant to Alan Partridge), combined with punk music. An insightful and poignant tragicomedy piece exploring the journey of recovery from toxicity, with hope at its centre, pulling elements from Laura’s real-life experiences. Lynn Faces, at Summerhall (Main Hall), August 1-26 (not 12th or 19th), 7.35pm. August 1 show £10, all other shows are £17. | Dom Moore Photo: Dom Moore
8. Rita Lynn: Life Coach
After leaving a secure, established, and long-running TV role (Emmerdale) in in 2018, actress Louise Marwood began a struggle with addiction. Here she makes her Fringe debut Inspired by her own experiences of addiction, with a candid, darkly funny cautionary tale. Protagonist Imogen whose relationship and career are on the brink invents an alter-ego, in a moment of drug-fuelled delusion. Meet Rita Lynn, a truth-telling, take-no-prisoners life coach, who naturally charges £250p/h. The two distinct voices inhabiting one person cleverly depicts the duality and conflicting nature of addiction, and its consequences. Rita Lynn: Life Coach, at Pleasance Dome (Ace Dome), July 31 - August 25 (Not 13th), 7pm. Tickets from £10. | Mark Petersen Photo: Mark Petersen