If you’re overwhelmed by the amount of things to do at the Fringe, I understand! After spending a packed weekend at the Fringe Aug 2-5, I have put together my top picks and must see shows to help you out!
Jena Friedman: Miscarriage of Justice
Witty, unforgiving, and gut splitting hysterical, Jena delivers an incredibly poignant show about topical political issues. Starting with a soft Brexit (unlike the real thing) and then hitting hard at the hot mess that is the U.S., she covers guns, abortion, dating, and more as a woman in a man’s world. This show is not for the easily offended (I’m looking at you right wingers), but it is for anyone who loves a political satire and wants to laugh for an hour because if you don’t laugh, you cry.
Tickets August 13-25, 21:20 at Assembly George Sqaure Studios – Five
The Brand-New, Full-Throated Adventures of Reginald D Hunter
A black American man living in the UK for the past 21 years explains what it’s like to be a black American man living in the UK – having to explain Trump to the Brits (at least now you can clapback with Boris), racism, guns, the Me Too movement, and more. His honest yet sarcastic attitude is refreshing and will keep you laughing until the last unexpected punchline.
Tickets August 14-18, 20-25; 21:40 at Pleasance Courtyard – The Grand
Pete Firman & The Amazing TBC
Magic AND comedy? What else could you possibly want? Witness the incredible duo act complete mind-boggling magic leaving you laughing and bewildered how a professional can turn an amateur into a magician in just an hour without anyone catching on! I have never been so amazed at being hoodwinked and I would gladly pay again to be fooled so flawlessly.
Tickets August 11-25, 20:00 at Pleasance Courtyard – Pleasance Beyond
Best of the Fest
If you want to see some late night comedy, this is the show for you. It’s different every night, featuring Fringe favorites. Each comedian does a short ten minute show, a small slice of what you could experience at their main festival performance. Make sure to book early as it tends to sell out, or stop by a box office to see if there are any restricted tickets left (you may have a pole obstruct some of your view but you can still hear the comedy no problem).
Tickets August 15-18, 22-25; 23:55 at Assembly Hall – Main Hall
Alternotive A Cappella
The UK’s longest running student a cappella group from Oxford nailed their performance this year. In an intimate venue, their voices fill the room giving the audience chills from the incredible notes. They knock it out of the park with a variety of music from pop to R’n’B matched by fun and tight choreography. This show is a must see for anyone looking for a fun, relaxed musical performance.
Tickets August 11-18, 14:45 at C venues – C viva
Dana’s Dos:
- Visit Bibi’s Bakery for the best treats in town!
- Walk everywhere! There’s so much to see and do, and those hills are a great workout.
- Check out the food trucks! There are so many options to choose from, but George Square and Pleasance Courtyard are my favorite spots.