Character Flaw
Underbelly Bristo Square
A transparent and honest take on life with ADHD. While ensuring some genuine laughs, elements of the show felt overplayed at times.
It's the Economy, Stupid!
Pleasance Dome
An immensely clear breakdown and humanisation of the state of our current economic situation, with an inventive set and unpatronising voice.
A Little Inquest Into What We're All Doing Here
Zoo Southside
Cancel culture, balanced debate and tap dancing - this show really has it all. While at times self-indulgent, the topic and its delivery are well worth the stage time.
Experiment Human
Underbelly Cowgate
A funny premise that needs some refining in its delivery and use of dramatic pauses. Attend if you love (or hate) Benedict Cumberbatch.
Buckets of Blood
Pleasance Courtyard: The Green
Interesting tales told by a passionate story-master. Full of repetition and audience participation, this is more a dramatic reading than a full-blown production.
TOP PICKS
© MURDO MACLEOD
Jonny Donahoe in Every Brilliant Thing
Every Brilliant Thing
Roundabout at Summerhall
My favourite watch from this year's Fringe was also my first. This stunning production, set in the round inside a small circus tent, was a surprising one. Despite tackling themes such as depression, love, and loss, it was still light on its feet, and felt incredibly human and real. Threaded with consistent audience participation, the production must change and adapt in every retelling – such is the beauty of the piece. I feel honoured to have seen the show with its original storyteller: Jonny Donahoe. I could go on and on about why this was so groundbreaking, but the best message I could give you is to go and discover it for yourself. This was a gorgeous lesson in the power of positivity; a show that all people, young and old, would benefit from watching.
A Letter to Lydon B. Johnson or God: Whoever Reads This First
The Space at Niddry Street
The fringe star duo Natasha and Xhloe return for a second year with a new (and just as powerful) tale, packed to the brim with inventive multi-roling and synchronisation. This is my top recommendation to A Level students this fringe! A fire-cracker of a show, overflowing with immense physical theatre, inventive prop use and extremely talented (yet young) performers, it is no wonder that the duo extended their run after the Fringe ended. This show is The Scotsman's 2024 Fringe First Winner, and it's not hard to see why.
© COURTESY XHLOE AND NATASHA
Xhloe and Natasha in promo for A Letter to Lyndon B. Johnson or God