Top Picks: 10 Must-See Acts at Edinburgh Fringe 2025

Joe Kent-Walters: Is Frankie Monroe DEAD!!! (A Good Fun Time)

Joe Kent-Walters, last year’s best newcomer winner, returns with one of comedy’s most delightfully bizarre characters. Frankie Monroe, the slightly sinister proprietor of a working men’s club, finds himself in hell this time—but that won’t stop him from putting on a show.
Venue: Monkey Barrel: Cabaret Voltaire, July 28 – August 24

Jain Edwards: She-Devil

Jain Edwards brings her unique brand of surreal comedy back to the Fringe, this time diving into her personal experiences. Expect insightful reflections on class, autism, and internalised misogyny, all delivered with her trademark deadpan style and unexpected punchlines.
Venue: Underbelly Bristo Square, July 30 – August 25

Heidi Regan: Jekyll and Heidi

Heidi Regan, known for her clever comedy, explores her personal journey with IVF in this heartfelt show. With humor and wit, she shares her challenges and triumphs on the path to conception.
Venue: Banshee Labyrinth, August 2 – 24

Mr Chonkers

John Norris, the creative force behind Mr Chonkers, returns after a viral hit. Expect eccentric physical comedy, Gregorian chants, and surreal audience interactions that will leave you in stitches.
Venue: Summerhall, July 31 – August 24

Desiree Burch: The Golden Wrath

Building on her success in shows like Taskmaster, Desiree Burch is back with a take on mid-life, perimenopause, and the power of righteous anger, all wrapped in her engaging stand-up style.
Venue: Monkey Barrel 3, July 28 – August 10

Leila Navabi: Relay

After making a splash with her debut musical comedy, Leila Navabi returns with a genre-defying performance. This time, she recounts her journey to parenthood with her girlfriend and their sperm-donor best friend through humor and song.
Venue: Pleasance Courtyard, July 30 – August 25

Josie Long: Now Is the Time of Monsters

Renowned for her insightful and uplifting comedy, Josie Long seeks to provide hope amidst chaos. Join her for a whimsical exploration of topics, from dinosaurs to hamsters, all delivered with her signature charm.
Venue: Pleasance Dome, July 30 – August 24

Luke McQueen: [Title TBD]

Known for his boundary-pushing comedy, Luke McQueen is back with a show that uses AI to interview himself—an idea that promises to spiral into hilarity. Don’t miss this unique experience!
Venue: Pleasance Dome, July 30 – August 24

Sam Nicoresti: Baby Doomer

Sam Nicoresti, even in the preview stages, shows promise with a thoughtful exploration of trans issues, global crises, and personal journeys. Prepare for sharp humor mixed with surreal moments that provoke both laughter and reflection.
Venue: Pleasance Courtyard, July 30 – August 24

Alice Cockayne: Licensed. Professional. Trained. Qualified.

Alice Cockayne stands out among emerging character acts this year. Her debut was a whirlwind of chaos, and her follow-up promises even more wig-filled hilarity, unhinged characters, and unpredictable musical numbers.
Venue: Pleasance Courtyard, July 30 – August 24