I scrolled 339 pages of shows so you don’t have to, here’s the diversity at The Edinburgh Fringe
Full disclaimer: This might not be all the diversity at the Fringe, there’s over 3300 shows and I can’t guarantee I didn’t miss any. If you’re reading this, are performing at the Fringe this year, consider yourself a diverse voice but don’t see your show, I offer my sincere apologies. But without further ado, here’s what I found going on this August.
Comedy
Aboriginal Comedy Allstars
With sell-out seasons and five-star reviews in the UK and throughout Australia, the Allstars bring huge belly laughs from the heart of the wide brown land. Starring Sean Choolburra, Janty Blair, Kevin Kropinyeri and Jay Wymarra.
3rd-15th, 17th-28th. (Performers of Colour)
Abby Wambaugh and Bronwyn Sweeney
Funny Women finalist and runner-up share the hour in this split bill. Abby tells you all the truthful truth that Abby kind of understands about parenting, gender, fruit and furniture. Bronwyn endeavours to be unforgettable and unskippable unlike the advertising she creates in her day job (everyone’s favourite thing to hate).
22nd-28th. (Performer of Colour, LGBTQ+)
AfroPolitiCool
From Vogue magazine to putting Piers Morgan in his place and zombifying politicians on Question Time. Come and join Edinburgh-born supermodel Eunice Olumide for this hilarious exploration into the crazy and complicated world of the modern day political narcissists, sociopaths and psychopaths running the planet we live on today. Beyonce says, 'Who run the world… girls?' Is this true or is it just Karens? From the catwalk to hard talk, sit back as she fashions a lyrical and hysterical debrief of where we find ourselves in 2022.
4th-15th, 17th-21st. (Performer of Colour)
Aurie Styla: Green
It has been an interesting couple of years, with a global pandemic showing us a different perspective on life and its meaning. To Aurie, it means looking at his own hilarious outlet and his way of dealing with change, and finally going Green (his real last name). Question is, what does being Green actually mean? Get your belly laughs finding out.
3rd-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Britney: Friends and Nothing More
Fresh from their universally adored BBC Three pilot, Charly Clive and Ellen Robertson make their long-awaited return to the Fringe with a sketch show about love. But which of these two girls will you fancy more?
3rd-28th. (LGBTQ+)
Carter Morgan: American Idiot
Did you know Americans weren't the first people in space? Me neither! Fake news. Travelling really opened my eyes up to the universe... er, universal healthcare. Come have a laugh with international comic Carter Morgan.
5th-13th, 16th-20th, 22nd-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Catherine Bohart: This Isn't For You
Catherine Bohart loves control, hates change and is a serial planner. It’s been an interesting couple of years… A blisteringly funny new stand-up show filled with horrendous life advice, cheery nihilism and reluctant self-discovery from one of the UK and Ireland’s most exciting comics.
4th-15th, 17th-28th. (LGBTQ+)
Chris Hall and Mark Bittlestone: Two Sour Gays
Yuck! A stand-up comedy show about being gay! And about being vegan (Chris), getting piles (Mark), collecting crystals (Chris), getting piles (Mark), being in love (Chris) and getting piles (Mark). Join social media "sensations" (they have 300k followers, fewer than most cats) Chris Hall and Mark Bittlestone for an hour of jokes, then follow them @chrxstopher.hall and @poofsrus or find them selling their underwear for money on Grindr.
4th-14th, 16th-28th. (LGBTQ+)
Don't Start Me on White Jesus
Canadian comedian Dana Alexander debuts her brand-new hilarious hour exploring history, politics and the concepts we have typically accepted as fact. Asking questions like: Why does Jesus look like Brad Pitt if he is from the Middle East? What is the difference between an explorer and a terrorist? If Africa is so poor why are so many countries robbing it?
4th-28th (Performer of Colour)
Eme Essien: Flat Shoes In The Club
Ever wondered what takes a girl so long to get ready on a night out? It's Saturday night, the big girls' night out and this girl is trying to get ready on time. Unfortunately, people won't stop interrupting her. Delve into her world as she figures out what to wear, how to do her hair and what to do when she gets there. Uncensored, dishevelled and sincere, this is the internal conflict of a woman trying to achieve modern ideals and aspirations, in an hour of character comedy from award winner Eme Essien.
3rd-15th, 17th-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Emmanuel Sonubi: Emancipated
Sonubi has only been on the comedy circuit for what feels like five minutes and he's already garnering himself a reputation as the one to watch out for, having gone from open spot to closing BBC's Live at the Apollo in an incredibly short space of time. He has also performed at many of the largest clubs and festivals across Europe. He made his TV debut on Comedy Central UK and was recently on The John Bishop Show for ITV1 and the Stand Up Sketch Show on ITV2. 'The bloke has got funny bones' (Romesh Ranganathan).
3rd-14th, 16th-29th. (Performer of Colour)
Emo Majok: African Aussie
Award-winning Sudanese-Aussie comedian Emo Majok, on his Edinburgh debut, will be digging into his experiences of culture clashes, with side-splitting stories of adjusting from a refugee camp in East Africa to gifting out jokes globally with this brand-new show, African Aussie.
3rd-14th, 16th-29th. (Performer of Colour)
Erika Ehler: Femcel
Noun: A female incel. A woman who can't get a relationship. Fresh from appearances on Frankie Boyle's New World Order (BBC2) and Comedians Giving Lectures (Dave). Expect an hour of boldly offensive and immaculately crafted jokes.
1st-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Esther Manito: #NotAllMen
In her award-winning stand-up show, Esther Manito (Live at the Apollo, The Stand Up Sketch Show) looks back at the era of lad mags, landlines and cock-n-ball graffiti. A time where the media said her Middle Eastern heritage was filled with misogynistic men, whereas the West absolutely had (and still has) sexism sorted. Has lad culture really improved? Does 90s Essex have the answers? Best Show winner, Leicester Comedy Festival 2021.
3rd-15th, 18th-29th. (Performer of Colour)
Fern Brady: Autistic Bikini Queen
Fern Brady is returning the the Fringe. She'll be tackling big issues such as death, shagging, marriage and ageing. In her typically honest and authentic way Fern is never scared to speak her mind. This show is the culmination of nearly two years of rumination. The fearless Scot's had a stratospheric rise.
25th-27th. (Neurodiverse performer)
Heidi Regan Gives Birth Live on Stage Every Night or Your Money Back
Fade In: Heidi sits at her desk writing the blurb for this show. She turns to the camera and winks. Her look says it all. We realise, without any words or proof needed, that this is the best show anyone has ever written about moving in with your girlfriend, trying for a baby and some stuff about robots. Cut To: A BMW roars down the Amalfi coast! Winner of BBC New Comedy Award and So You Think You’re Funny. Tour support for Joe Lycett and Phil Wang.
6th-19th, 22nd-28th. (LGBTQ+)
Help Wanted!
A small show about trials and tribulations. Woodward had found himself getting stuck in life with a few problems: hoarding disorder, BDD, ADHD, autism, tinnitus and more. But now, he’s working out how to pull through – by finally asking for help. Join him to share in his tales of nocturnal hikes, wild swims, attempts to start record labels and local newspapers, plans of rewilding, mental health podcasts (some of which may happen in the show!) and more, and get inspired for your next adventure!
4th-28th. (Neurodiverse performer)
Jamali Maddix: King Crud
As seen on Taskmaster (Channel 4), Frankie Boyle's New World Order (BBC Two), Never Mind the Buzzcocks (Sky) and his critically acclaimed series Hate Thy Neighbor for Vice, Jamali Maddix is back. With a brand new show, Jamali will be tackling more home truths and universal issues. A master of the craft this latest show is not to be missed.
25th-27th. (Performer of Colour)
James Roque: Badong
A favourite on the New Zealand comedy scene for the last 10 years, Kiwi-Filipino James Roque makes his debut at the Edinburgh Fringe. His entire life, James' family have referred to him by his traditional baby nickname – Badong. Now that Badong has turned 30, he's asking – is it finally time to retire the name? This is a show about embracing adulthood and learning to love your inner grown up, as seen through the eyes of a Filipino migrant who grew up in New Zealand.
3rd-14th, 16th-29th. (Performer of Colour)
Jessica Fostekew: Wench
A new show about private things, public things and trying to wrap your big sexy arms around time to keep it still. You’ve seen Jessica on Live at the Apollo and QI, amongst other telly shows. She’s a regular co-host of The Guilty Feminist Podcast, the host and creator of The Hoovering Podcast and you hear her regularly on BBC Radio 4’s News Quiz and Now Show.
3rd-14th, 16th-28th. (LGBTQ+)
Jordan Gray: Is It a Bird?
Fusing stand-up with musical comedy, the UK's premier transgender comedian takes on babies, boobies, bigots and Batman. After 10 years in the music biz (and a memorable run on The Voice), Jordan Gray has suddenly become one of the UK's most exciting and celebrated rising comics.
3rd-16th, 18th-28th. (LGBTQ+)
Kai Samra: Native
Following his critically acclaimed debut and Soho Theatre Live Amazon comedy special, award-winning comedian Kai Samra is back with a brand-new hour about race, class, immigration, youth homelessness, India and, more importantly, 2010 indie-rock bands.
3rd-14th, 16th-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Kwame Asante: Living in Sin
The unachievable expectations of African Jesus! The unholy shame of premarital cohabitation! The unwavering healthcare professionals who dare to oppose the will of God! Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee and NHS doctor Kwame Asante is living in sin and has come to preach to the choir! In this new show, Kwame presents a hilarious, witty and heartfelt introspective on the place of religion in modern life, modern love and modern medicine.
3rd-16th, 18th-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Mamoun Elagab: Work in Progress
Rising star Mamoun wants to share with you his unfiltered, idiosyncratic and unorthodox world view – the things you think about and never say out loud... but need to hear! A work in progress stand-up show taking a left field look at all walks of British society from a revered scholar of hood philosophy.
6th-16th, 18th-27th. (Performer of Colour)
Mary O'Connell: There's Something Wrong With Mary (WIP)
Mary O'Connell is conflicted: she hates capitalism but she loves to shop. A work-in-progress show of observational annoyance from a blunt and disturbed perspective. Mary performs stand-up comedy about money, pop culture and trying to be a good person while living in London.
6th-15th, 17th-22nd, 24th-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Melting Pot
Good people do bad things and bad people do good things. Anoushka Rava sways brilliantly between both, offering a hilarious mix. French-Iranian, born in London, raised in Paris, this refreshing show tackles current societal matters with lightness and irony. Imagine what comes out of her Jewish, Muslim and Catholic heritage, coping with the most unapologetic family you can only fall in love with. From managing complex experiences at airports customs, to insane situations (while always sober), she's the one-stop show who leaves us with a message of love and unity.
22nd-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Michael Akadiri: No Scrubs
Highly anticipated debut hour from comedian and junior doctor. No Scrubs sees Michael traverse the challenges of life within and outside the NHS. Scrubs are the universal uniform for doctors but they don't confer any medical competence. Wearing a tracksuit on the street has negative connotations, but do they make one any less of a medical professional? Is he a scrub for wearing no scrubs?
3rd-15th, 17th-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Morgan Rees: Bi and Large
Debut hour from Welsh funnyman Morgan Rees. An hour full of 'fast gags, unexpected swerves and rolling stories' (Sunday Times). If you have ever wondered what it's like growing up with a nan 10 years older than you, an aunt who is a certified ghost hunter, and how a white boy from the Welsh Valleys was in line to be a prince in Nigeria, then this is the show for you. There is also a brief period about modern-day masculinity, but it's mainly jokes about bumming.
3rd-28th. (LGBTQ+)
Nish Kumar: Your Power, Your Control
It has been a period of upheaval and uncertainty with COVID and the political situation. You will be amazed by my capacity to somehow take all these things personally. Your Power, Your Control is a new show from the former host of Late Night Mash Report and one of The Guardian’s Top Top Fifty Comedians of the 21st Century.
22nd-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Njambi McGrath: Black Black
Comedian grannies, mud-floor comedy clubs, white-face audiences, broke aristocrat orgies with angry Afrikaans, soldiers in search of stiffies, African matriarchs objectifying themselves and civil disobedience are the perfect ingredients for mirth. Njambi McGrath is hot on the heels of her comedian grandmother in colonial Kenya. This is satire with a zing. The ying and yang of historical humour. Mention Kenya, one thinks of tranquil savannas, Attenborough stalking exotic animals and the rest is a fog. Fear not – Njambi is to the rescue! Njambi's hour of political comedy is the Attenborough of Kenyan history.
3rd-14th, 16th-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Phil Wang: The Real Hero in All This
Hot off the heels of his critically acclaimed Netflix special, Phil's bringing his highly infective British-Malaysian variant of comedy to the Edinburgh Fringe once more. Phil's last show in Edinburgh was in 2019, so immunity to his charm has faded significantly. Thank goodness he's back with a new hour of absolute gold about race, family and everything that's been going on in his Philly little life. Your doctor called – you're due your next dose of Wang.
15th-21st. (Performer of Colour)
Sharon Wanjohi and Abbie Edwards: Not Too Shabby
From their sell-out show at the Camden Fringe, Sharon Wanjohi (Chortle Student finalist) and Abbie Edwards (as heard on BBC Radio 4 Extra) present an eclectic hour of stand-up about everything from babies being racist to Brad Bird’s 2007 masterpiece Ratatouille. But that's not all! The show will end with stand-up roasts about themselves written by the other comedian that they’ve never seen before. Prepare to see their deepest insecurities ridiculed on stage as the audience find out what they really think of each other... but in a fun way.
4th-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Sikisa: Life of the Party
Sikisa is the life and soul, the hostess-with-the-mostess and the party don't start 'til she walks in. Join her for an epic house party and highly anticipated debut hour. Parties are fun... right? As seen and heard on Jonathan Ross' Comedy Club (ITV), The Stand Up Sketch Show (ITV2) and The Off-Menu podcast. Three-time Leicester Comedy Festival Awards nominee and BBC New Comedy Award Finalist.
3rd-16th, 18th-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Sindhu Vee: Alphabet
A show about the hair we want, the friends we have and living the vast difference between virus and viral. Expect 'outspoken, frank and funny stand-up' (Evening Standard) from this Edinburgh Comedy Awards Best Newcomer nominee.
18th-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Sophie Duker: Hag
The sexy baby from Taskmaster is all grown up. Back in 2019 she was a Babybel – round, sweet, pure. Now she's vintage cheddar – extra mature and hiding in your fridge. As seen on Live At The Apollo and literally everywhere else. Hag is her new stand-up show. Deal with it.
3rd-16th, 18th-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Sunil Patel: Faster Horses
'If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said faster horses’ (Henry Ford). Mad that he went and invented the car isn't it? Imagine all the people thinking 'please Henry we just want a faster horse' and then he just turns up with an engine on a bed frame that goes 3mph. Anyway, I'm coming to Edinburgh with some faster horses – give the people what they want I say.
3rd-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Thanyia Moore: Just Being Funny
Thanyia Moore was going to make her Edinburgh Fringe debut in 2020 with a heartfelt, emotional show, that was about to rock your socks off… but then 2020 happened. Now, she’d rather just be funny. Winner: Funny Women Award. As seen on Mock the Week, Bamous and Funny Festival Live (BBC), Rob Beckett’s Undeniable (Comedy Central), Alan Davies’ As Yet Untitled (Dave) and in Alma’s Not Normal (BBC) and The Duchess (Netflix). ‘A quick, frank and instantly engaging comic’ (Guardian).
3rd-16th, 18th-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Vir Das: Wanted
Vir Das, fresh off an Emmy nomination for his latest Netflix stand-up special, brings his brand new Wanted world tour to Edinburgh – a show about freedom, a journey into foolishness and a perspective that takes you across the world. The New York Times declares 'no artist embodies the globalization of stand-up like Vir Das' and the Boston Globe hails the 'mixture of audacity and humility in Das' comedy.' Catch the global phenomenon, who has four specials on Netflix and can most recently be seen in the Judd Apatow film The Bubble on Netflix.
3rd-14th, 16th-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Wacky Racists Comedy Club
Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee and Taskmaster star Sophie Duker is bringing Wacky back for two unmissable festival specials, joined by psychotically talented one-man white-man house band, The Tone Deafs, and a host of "hilarious ethnics"! Expect slick stand-up from comics of colour, madcap musical interventions and stupidly high-stakes games (Pin the Tail on the Honky?!). Previous guests include Nish Kumar, London Hughes, Desiree Burch and Ahir Shah. Recommended as some of the 'best stand-up in London' by the Evening Standard. Disclaimer: NOT a show for actual racists. Quirky bigots had best avoid.
14th, 21st. (Performers of Colour)
Theatre
Able(ish)
Written and preformed by Tamara Al-Bassam in her debut Fringe production, Able(ish) is a lighthearted monologue about one woman’s uphill struggle applying for disability support while coming to terms with her own strengths and limitations.
15th-17th, 19th-20th. (Disabled performer)
Apradhini – Women Without Men
Apradhini is a collection of stories about women who have been incarcerated for life for crimes including armed robbery, dacoity and murder. While guilty of their crimes, the author is astonished to hear the stories leading to these crimes being committed. These women have been beaten, abused and exploited by society, and sadly their attempts to regain some autonomy and liberation brought them to the attention of the law. Are their crimes heartless violations or a response to their untenable circumstances?
22nd-28th. (Performers of Colour)
Badass
A love note to the NHS. The BAFTA Rocliffe-winning show. Has your bum ever tried to kill you? Things are looking rosy for Sarah Mills: she has the bachelorette pad, a job she doesn't hate and friends who make her feel she's living in a glossy 90s sitcom. All she needs now is a fella. But instead of finding her prince, she finds a surprise in her poo. The next two years are spent swapping dresses for hospital gowns and Lambrini for laxatives.
3rd-14th, 16th-29th. (Disabled performer)
Black is the Color of My Voice
Direct from sell-out shows, an extensive UK tour and London season, Fringe First award winner Apphia Campbell returns in her stunning solo show inspired by the life of Nina Simone. 'Campbell may wear Simone's trademark head wrap but her performance goes beyond impersonation' **** (Times).
4th-9th, 11th-16th, 18th-20th. (Performer of Colour)
Black Sheep
After moving to London to live within a more diverse community, Livia learns that the self-hate feelings she experienced all her life are internalised racism and survival techniques. While building her career in the circus industry she grows tired of playing a stereotype and starts unpacking layers to grow and overcome. She uses poetry, music and performance to speak about the challenges a Black woman faces when daring to move into her power. Carving out a place for herself as one of the UK's up-and-coming Black voices, Livia presents a performance that is timely, unsettling and powerful.
4th-13th, 16th-27th. (Performer of Colour)
Blood and Gold
Ancient mythology and modern storytelling collide in a contemporary exploration of the legacy of colonialism and slavery by award-winning Scottish/Kenyan storyteller Mara Menzies. A dying mother gives her daughter a box containing three clues to a priceless treasure. This sets in motion a journey filled with humour and tragedy that considers the importance of ritual, identity and belonging.
11th-14th, 17th-21st, 24th-28th. (Performers of Colour)
Buzzing Anonymous
This groundbreaking piece of theatre is based on an ADHD support group. It watches unlikely relationships form through the chaos and natural dramatic comedy that occurs when neurodivergent people try to navigate through day-to-day life. It sheds light on mental health issues such as ADHD, ASC, OCD, depression and anxiety through a comedic lens, while exploring the obscurity of these conditions.
26th-28th. (Neurodiverse performers)
Call Mr Robeson
Paul Robeson is a world-famous actor, singer and civil rights campaigner. When he gets too radical and outspoken for the establishment's liking, he is branded a traitor to his country, harassed, and denied opportunities to perform or travel. This rollercoaster journey through Robeson’s remarkable life highlights how his pioneering and heroic political activism led many to describe him as the forerunner of the civil rights movement. It features some famous songs, speeches, and a spectacularly defiant testimony to the Senate House Un-American Activities Committee. Now in its 15th year!
Watch from Home from 5th. 21st-27th. (Performers of Colour)
Caste-ing
Caste-ing explores the experiences of three black actresses using beatboxing, rap, song and spoken word. An entertaining and rhythmic showcase of the realities, structures and pressures of the acting industry, and how black women navigate these situations. We watch them as they attempt to maintain their sense of self, their faith, friendships and of course, careers. How can they remain true to their values in an industry seemingly intent on pitting them against each other? What do they do when the pressures become too much?
3rd, 5th-8th, 10th-15th, 17th-22nd, 24th-28th. (Performers of Colour
Colossal
Following his sold-out, five-star debut show, The Man, Patrick McPherson returns to Edinburgh with Colossal: a one-man comedy play that dives into love stories, morality, and the dance between the two. Colossal weaves sketch comedy, gig theatre and spoken word to tell the comedic and candid story of a man called Dan, his affinity for owls, and his messy recent past. An hour of dynamic theatre, comedy and music, that embraces the spectrum of modern romance, from the first date to the last text, from falling headfirst to falling apart.
4th-14th, 16th-28th. (LGBTQ+)
Dream of a King
On April 3rd 1968, Martin famously gave a speech that was a premonition of his own death. The next day, on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel, he was shot and killed by an assassin’s bullet. Using creative licence and based on true events, Dream of a King is a reimagining of the hours leading up to the killing of Martin Luther King Jr and seeks to discover the man behind the icon. Christopher returns to theSpaceUK with his 2019 self-penned critically-acclaimed solo production. Not to be missed!
10th-11th, 17th-18th, 25th-26th. (Performers of Colour)
Far Gone
'If I invited you to come with me on a journey, a story, will you come with me?' Northern Uganda. When Okumu's village is attacked by the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA), he and his brother's lives are changed forever. Far Gone is a profoundly moving story of a young boy's journey from childhood innocence to child soldier. Seen through the eyes of those that love him and those that betray him, Okumu's experience strikes straight at the heart through a powerful one-man performance.
5th-11th, 15th-20th. (Performer of Colour)
The Fire at the Edge of the Earth
Pluto and Vector have been dating for almost a year now, but as they hike up the mountain where the Greek god Prometheus was bound as punishment, their relationship hits its breaking point. The myth of Prometheus looms large over the mountain’s cold peak as Pluto and Vector confront their differences, their fears about their partnership and the events that brought them together in the first place. The play is an examination of queer love and queer existence; it vacillates between the mythic and the deeply personal.
5th-8th, 10th-13th. (LGBTQ+)
Hungry
A blisteringly funny play about what we eat and who we love, exploring class, queerness, cultural appropriation and the cost of gentrification. Lori is a chef. Bex waits tables. One night in a walk-in fridge and the rest is history. Lori wants to teach Bex about the finer things in life, but what’s the point when the system is rigged? After all, no-one on minimum wage has headspace to make their own yoghurt.
3rd, 5th-8th, 10th-15th, 17th-22nd, 24th-28th. (LGBTQ+, Performers of Colour)
I Shall Not Be Moved
The riveting play I Shall Not Be Moved is by emerging young playwright Isaiah Reaves. This one-woman show thrillingly recounts the story of Reaves’ grandmother, recognized Civil Rights pioneer Betty Daniels Rosemond and her beautiful, horrifying, and trailblazing journey through the American South as one of the first Freedom Riders during the 1960s. Audiences far and wide will experience the internal conflicts and joys of a dark-skinned Black woman’s fearless battle for equity and equality.
22nd-26th. (Performer of Colour)
Just an Ordinary Lawyer
As the British Empire struggles to keep its colonial possessions, Nigerian Tunji Sowande quietly breaks through multiple barriers to become Britain’s first Black judge. A fine concert singer and keen cricket follower, he muses on international politics and history as they affect the Black world from Africa to the USA and Britain, from the point of view of one who would rather watch sports and spread love and peace through the medium of song.
Watch from home from July 27th. 22nd-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Let's Try Gay
Two friends, Jack and Phil, meet in a hotel to shoot a gay adult movie between two straight guys: an “art project” to send to an independent movie festival, but they now feel uncomfortable. Their attempts to even just kiss or hug are clumsy and awkward. As time goes on, they prolong their problems. Jack is struggling with his life as an artist while Phil reveals his doubts about his sexual identity. Freely inspired by the independent movie Humpday, this unlikely comedy turns from a goofy, relaxed, funny situation into a deeper analysis of human nature.
5th-13th, 15th-27th. (LGBTQ+)
Made in India/Britain
Since leaving home in Birmingham, Rinkoo Barpaga has been determined to find somewhere to settle. Along the way he's encountered racism, discrimination and has begun asking himself: 'Where do I belong?' Join him as he delves deep into past experiences in order to discover his true self and a place he can finally call home. Performed by Rinkoo in British Sign Language, with live voiceover provided by an actor. Supported by the Pleasance's Generate Fund. Directed by Tyrone Huggins.
3rd-8th, 10th-15th, 17th-22nd, 24th-29th. (Deaf performer. Performer of Colour)
My Voice Was Heard But It Was Ignored
Fifteen-year-old Reece is roughly accosted by the police outside M&S. His teacher Gillian watches as his face is pressed into the wet gravel with a policeman's knee in his back, frozen out of fear for her own safety. The next day, Reece locks them both in her classroom, refusing to relinquish the key. He wants her to pay – and to fully understand the pain of the irreversible breakdown of trust her inaction has caused. An urgent interrogation of racial identity by Nana-Kofi Kufuor, directed by Dermot Daly.
3rd-14th, 16th-21st, 23rd-28th. (Performers of Colour)
No Place Like Home
Winner of Les Enfants Terribles Award 2022. On a night out in a gay bar, Connor meets Rob. One's a newcomer, the other has been on the scene far too long. But when a kiss leads to a brutal attack – who's the victim and who's the perpetrator? Fusing spoken word, music, dance and video art, No Place Like Home is a tragic odyssey into gay club culture and the places we can call home. Get ready to laugh, cry and dance with somebody who loves you.
3rd-16th, 18th-29th. (LGBTQ+)
Oedipus Electronica
An electrifying re-imagining of the ultimate love triangle. Mother. Father. Son. An emergency diagnosis crushes Jocasta's dreams of becoming a mother and sends her spiralling into hedonistic freefall. Pecho Mama's radical reinvention of the myth is an intoxicating whirlwind of ecstasy and devastation. A powerhouse psychological thriller, marrying London's domestic grit with a searing live electronica score.
3rd-26th. (Performers of Colour)
Rajesh and Naresh
A feel-good love story. When Rajesh visits Mumbai, he encounters Naresh – not exactly the Indian wife his mother hoped for. Bend it like Beckham meets It's a Sin in the queer romcom you've been waiting for – set just after India's landmark decriminalisation of homosexuality in 2018. Funny and charmingly performed, Rajesh and Naresh was written from workshops conducted with members of the queer South Asian community in London and abroad.
3rd-14th. (LGBTQ+, Performers of Colour)
Thurgood
Thurgood is an inspiring, vivid bio-drama rich in humour and humanity, about the first African-American Supreme Court Justice. This one-man show performed by Fringe-veteran and AEA actor from the United States, Mark Cryer, is a powerhouse performance sure to be engaging for all audiences.
5th-6th, 8th-13th. (Performers of Colour)
Under Heaven's Eyes – The Systemic and Systematic Unjustified Killings of Black Lives
Under Heaven’s Eyes is a solo play that asks: did George Floyd’s killing mark a turning point for real change or yet another false dawn? While also exploring how systemic and systematic societal racism squeezes communities of colour to the margins. Despite the global outcry and public machinations over the murder of George Floyd, in America, the police continue to instigate discriminatory and disproportional violence against Black and Brown communities. Is there a parallel history of structural inequality in Britain?
5th-7th, 12th-14th, 19th-20th, 23rd-24th, 27th. (Performers of Colour)
Unfortunate: The Untold Story of Ursula the Sea Witch
Disney villain. Octo-woman. Plus-size icon. From multi award-winning Fat Rascal Theatre and fresh from sell-out runs around the UK comes this critically acclaimed hit parody musical. Unfortunate splashes into Edinburgh with a 70-minute festival version – and things are gonna get wet. Join everyone’s favourite Disney Diva, Ursula, as she gives her take on what really happened all those years ago under the sea. With an original hot pop soundtrack and trademark filthy humour, the legendary queer queen is ready to spill, in this tell-all tale of sex, sorcery and suckers.
3rd-29th. (Performers of Colour)
Why I Hate My Penis
Because Grindr hookups never quite go to plan. Because your sister has the perfect boyfriend. Because nobody fucks harder than God. Why I Hate My Penis is a new monologue about the experience of growing up Black and gay from exciting young writer Sam Spencer. Jumping between past and present in a story of family tension, Grindr hook-ups, and closeted romance, Why I Hate My Penis spotlights the experience of growing up Black and gay in a refreshing take on the monologue form from exciting young writer Sam Spencer.
22nd-27th. (LGBTQ+, Performer of Colour)
Wreckage
'I love you I love you I love you I love you I love you.’ Sam and his fiancé Noel have been together for years. They have a house, a cat and their whole lives ahead of them. But when a sudden and permanent distance crashes into their relationship, it falls upon Sam to discover where their story goes from here. Harlow Playhouse present this new work by Tom Ratcliffe. Wreckage is a touching story about continuing bonds and love that only evolves, and never dies.
3rd-14th, 16th-21st, 23rd-28th. (LGBTQ+, Performer of Colour)
Music
100% Soul! With the Voices of Virtue Gospel Choir
All the timeless, soul and Motown classics you know and love, cherry-picked for this uplifting, blisteringly live soul revue, featuring the 16-piece VOV Gospel Choir, their full band, brass section and DJ Tommy Caulker. After a sell-out at 2019's Fringe, this authentic and amazing soul revue returns for 2022, with an evening of those 100%, high octane, upbeat, classic soul anthems everyone knows all the words to. Performed by this astounding gospel choir, at the top of their game!
13th. (Performers of Colour)
The Aretha Franklin Story
Multi award-winning show taking you on a journey through the life and music of Aretha Franklin, the most-charted female of the 21st century, with high-energy versions of Think, Natural Woman and Respect. Brought to you by Cleopatra Higgins of the hit 90s band, Cleopatra, and the multi award-winning cast of Night Owl Shows. Sell-out runs at Edinburgh Fringe 2017-19 and 2021, Adelaide Fringe 2019 and 2020 and Brighton Fringe 2019 and 2021.
5th-28th. (Performers of Colour)
Climb
Jamaican-Canadian singer-songwriter Duane Forrest shares his stories and songs gleaned from his travels around the world. Whether he’s singing about love found and lost in Latin America or telling stories about seeking clarity gigging throughout Asia and Europe, his soulful voice and samba-reggae vibes seek joy and hope in this broken world. Proceeds support Duane's charity Genesis Community of the Arts. Creator: Duane Forrest. Dramaturg: Ins Choi. Producer: John McGowan. Starring: Duane Forrest.
3rd-12th, 16th-29th. (Performer of Colour)
Make it stand out
California based Hip-Hop Orchestra, Ensemble Mik Nawooj (EMN), presents music from their new album, Death Become Life, which seamlessly fuses hip-hop and classical. Unlike other hip-hop acts, their line-up includes full strings, woodwind, French horn and soprano. Their music uniquely challenges the MC pushing the boundaries of both hip-hop and concert music, creating something completely new. Included in the program are seminal works of Mozart, Bach and Beethoven, deconstructed and reimagined with funky rhythms and rapid fire rhymes. This show is presented in collaboration with the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
5th-14th. (Performers of Colour)
Movin' Melvin Brown: A Man, A Magic, A Music
Living legend, world-class entertainer returns with Broadway version of a five-star journey through Black music and his incredible life, with songs, tap dance, stories, comedy... Featuring Ray Charles, James Brown, Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, Michael, Prince and more! One of the last great song and dance men, his award-winning entertainment career spans five decades alongside the very best: BB King, James Brown, Stevie Wonder.
5th-9th, 11th-15th, 17th, 20th-21st, 23rd-27th. (Performer of Colour)
Sing Sistah Sing! Tales of Transatlantic Freedom
A glorious exploration of musical theatre weaving song, spoken word and piano together across centuries and continents, celebrating the African diaspora's quest for artistic, intellectual and social freedom. Touching upon the transatlantic journeys of people and ideas between Scotland and the American continent, tracing the threads of power, resistance, migration and emancipation in story and song. Created by award-winning artists, singer Andrea Baker, composer and pianist Howard Moody and directed by John Paul McGroarty, this show will transport, uplift and enlighten audiences. A new show in Andrea Baker's Sing Sistah Sing! series.
19th-20th, 23rd-26th. (Performers of Colour)
Soweto Gospel Choir
2019 Grammy Award winners for Best World Music Album, the world's critically acclaimed choir performs Freedom, songs which celebrate and commemorate South Africa's democratic struggle. From Soweto, home of South Africa's democratic movement, Soweto Gospel Choir inspires audiences with its powerful blend of African gospel, freedom songs and international classics. In this uplifting and joyous repertoire, Soweto Gospel Choir performs a rousing program celebrating the life of the father of its Rainbow Nation, Nelson Mandela, as well as being a celebration of life itself.
4th-7th, 9th-14th, 16th-21st, 23rd-29th. (Performers of Colour)
Dance, Circus, Cabaret & Variety
Adventures of Straker
Peter Straker has one of the greatest, sweetest voices in British theatre, a unique performer who has starred in original productions of Hair and Tommy. This festival he sings his catalogue of musical theatre hits. Revisiting parts he originated to others that got away, it’s an uncompromising evening of great tunes, powered with style and skill. Songs are revitalised and reimagined. Accompanied by the virtuoso Gabriele Baldocci. He's a five-star winner, year on year.
15th-20th. (LGBTQ+, Performers of Colour)
The Black Blues Brothers
The show that thrilled the world is back! Joining the energy of Africa with a rhythm and blues sound, five extraordinary acrobats perform their comedy tribute to the cult movie The Blues Brothers. In an elegant nightclub reminiscent of the Cotton Club, the surroundings become props for acrobatic feats. Expect breathtaking jumps, fire, somersault routines, human pyramids and so much more. A show acclaimed by more than 300,000 people across the world, including Pope Francis and Prince Albert. After an astonishing appearance at the Royal Variety Performance, they return to Edinburgh... on a mission to entertain!
3rd-28th. (Performers of Colour)
The Chosen Haram
An award-winning queer circus show from an Edinburgh-born artist. The Chosen Haram tells the story of two gay men and the barriers they must overcome. Expect a heady mix of love, drugs and Islam in this unique and complex take on circus. Performed on two Chinese poles this show is emotionally candid with moments of humour and joy. There is no traditional dialogue here – It does not need it.
3rd, 5th-6th, 9th-13th, 16th-20th, 23rd-27th. (LGBTQ+, Performers of Colour)
Circus Abyssinia: Tulu
A dazzling display of speed, skill and flight lands in Edinburgh this summer, celebrating the first African woman to win Olympic gold. Inspired by the true tale of an Ethiopian icon, Derartu Tulu, this unmissable showcase of superhuman strength blends breathtaking contortion, awe-inspiring acrobatics and mesmerising fire juggling with a rocking, exuberant soundtrack. Circus Abyssinia made their UK debut at the 2017 Edinburgh Fringe and featured on the Royal Variety Performance in the same year. After touring internationally, including a sell-out run in New York, they are thrilled to return with their greatly anticipated new show.
6th-14th, 16th-21st, 23rd-27th. (Performers of Colour)
A Death Has Occurred
Kennedy Muntanga Dance Theatre return to the Edinburgh Fringe with their newest creation. This contemporary work tells the story of the miraculous journey of a young lion-hearted journalist. After sneaking into a city condemned to be destroyed by God, our protagonist seeks to find out why these people are condemned to die, only to experience something unexplainable. Kennedy draws inspiration from his Christian faith to explore themes of destiny, identity, spirituality and truth seeking to further explain his reflection on God’s redemptive history and the purpose of life.
22nd-27th. (Performers of Colour)
Fitry
A man stands at a crossroads in the reality of his passion between Africa and Europe, trying to stay afloat in a changing world where people are eager to try new things and discover new stars. In Fitry, Serge Aime Coulibaly reflects on his artistic and socio-political commitments and his continuous struggle to keep standing, despite the surprises and trials of life. After creating the solo Fadjiri, Fitry marks a new step in Coulibaly's reflection on the lonely man, responsibilities towards humanity, and reasons for being onstage. The research and creation was done through the body of Jean Koudogbo-Kiki.
5th-7th, 9th-14th. (Performers of Colour)
Ganesh and Cydney's Clinic
Imagine if Prince and Mae West were best friends. Now throw in some glitter, filth, a dash of camp and you're nearly there... After travelling the globe seeking the reaffirmation their lovers never gave them, Ganesh and Cydney have landed in Edinburgh, on a mission to rid the city of lovesickness. Clinic is a new cabaret experience, that's cliché and unconventional in equal measure. With the help of a little audience participation, some outrageously intimate anecdotes and original songs, patients are taken on a euphoric and enlightening journey towards sexual discovery and self-love.
4th-15th, 17th-28th. (LGBTQ+, Performer of Colour)
Havana Street Party
Three incredible groups from Cuba create a thrilling fusion of cool modern dance styles in this world premiere of breath-taking Cuban dance. Los Datway street dance, Mas Con Menos percussion and Kufesa contemporary ballet will blow you away with an urban dance explosion. Accompanying them are a ten-piece live band led by rapper Bad Boy Ovio and DJ Ernesto. Expect traditional rumba, sexy salsa and hot Latin hits from the likes of Camila Cabello, Daddy Yankee, Bad Bunny and Cimafunk. Sexy, spectacular, unmissable.
3rd-14th, 16th-21st, 23rd-29th. (Performers of Colour)
He’s Dead
He's Dead is a dark fantasy choreography asking the unanswerable question: Was Tupac depressed? This conceptual group work uses dance, live action and sound to unearth the unspoken dehumanisation of marginalised people and Black experience of mental health. Underscored by a pulsing, dominating soundscape, He's Dead is a complex, powerful endeavour to shed tears for the things we cannot unearth. Staged in 3 acts, He's Dead interrogates the injustice experienced by those perceived as flawed; those denied sadness, denied acknowledgement and denied a voice
23rd-28th. (Performer of Colour)
Intambo
Ruciteme Karyenda Culture de Buyenzi is a group of Burundian drummers, founded in 1987. Starting with 27 members, the members range in age from 8 to 50. We perform an old, traditional Burundi dance that used to be played for the Kings. The dance should bring people together and bring happiness and peace to the nation. The group’s aim is to represent Burundian culture.
22nd-27th. (Performers of Colour)
Konkoba: My Environment, My Life
Konkoba, from Upper Guinea, is a rhythm used to encourage farm workers as they toil with the daba (hoe) in the fields. It can be used to honour a powerful, rich farmer by the Malinke and Susu people of West Africa. A hard-working and successful person might be called Konkoba. The main language of the region is Malinke spoken by over 3,000,000 people and was the language of court and government of the Mali Empire which, in the C14th-15th, was the largest, wealthiest West African empire. The region has a rich history.
18th, 20th, 27th-28th. (Performers of Colour)
Kunfetaga and Talking to Mum
Kunfetaga means 'wandering'. It becomes an emotion, then a character. Asking 'what's the worst thing to happen to you?' prompts the revelation of a four-year-old's painful death when doctors were on strike. The dancer heals, grieves and asks: what is the worst thing to happen to you? Women cook and do housework, but as a child, he also did the 'woman's work'. Now an adult, artist and father, his culinary skills exceed those of young women and he combines cooking and dance in a maternal tribute. The ingredients of this dance speak an unexpected language.
14th, 17th, 19th, 21st. (Performers of Colour)
La Clique
The multi award-winning cabaret spectacular, La Clique, features the best of circus, comedy and cabaret. Born at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2004 and subsequently gaining international acclaim touring the globe, this original and trailblazing spiegeltent-based cabaret show brings you a magnificent collection of extraordinary new artists and unmissable favourites. A decade on from winning the Best Entertainment Olivier Award and fresh from performances in London and Singapore, La Clique promises to be a night of laughs, gasps, naughtiness and the best in international cabaret.
5th-14th, 16th-21st, 23rd-27th. (Performers of Colour)
Magical Bones: Soulful Magic
Following a totally sold-out debut in 2019, the Britain's Got Talent finalist returns to the Fringe with 'a dazzling show... full of imagination and flair' **** (Guardian). Direct from appearances on America's Penn & Teller: Fool Us, BBC One's BAFTA Awards, ITV1's This Morning and Sky's Around The World in 80 Tricks, join Bones as he brings you a brand-new hour of the most awe-inspiring and high-energy magic you'll see this year. 'What's happening on stage really is magic' (Telegraph).
3rd-15th, 17th-28th. (Performer of Colour)
N’zrama Show
N'zrama presents exuberant, vibrant, energetic and lively performances of traditional and contemporary dance from several regions of West Africa's Ivory Coast. Evocative sounds are created by rhythmic traditional drums, flutes and the toéwu, a unique, modern single stringed instrument. The star of the show, Assiny Toé, will play the toéwu which he invented; the instrument stands out while blending with the sounds surrounding it. The lead percussionist will play three drums while a girl plays the traditional Ivorian flute. A beautiful show featuring the traditional culture of West Africa. A Fringe AMC debut, and this, you will love!
14th, 17th, 19th, 21st. (Performers of Colour)
Pain and I
A bold exploration into chronic pain experience by Sarah Hopfinger, which unashamedly celebrates the rich complexities of living with pain. Layering playful choreography, experimental movement, intimate autobiographical text and original music by Alicia Jane Turner, Hopfinger asks 'What does it mean to care for our bodies, ourselves, and each other in times of personal and collective pain?' in this powerful, honest, and compelling solo performance. Diversely accessible: available as a live performance, audio experience and visual publication.
3rd-7th, 9th-10th, 12th-14th, 16th-17th, 19th-21st, 23rd-24th, 26th-28th. (Disabled Performer)
Pamoja
An extraordinary collaboration between dancers from Kibera and Kariobangi, two informal settlements in Nairobi. Each has its own tribe, traditions and language. Together they represent an important part of Kenya's rich culture, and they are using this to create a platform for dialogue around menstruation and period poverty. Pamoja is an African contemporary dance show, featuring performances and stories from women living in informal settlements and villages in Kenya. Through traditional drums, music, dance and spoken word, the show aims to challenge our perceptions and normalise the discussion around periods and menstruation in Africa.
11th-15th. (Performers of Colour)
Scene Africa
Scene Africa celebrates African contributions to world culture through protagonist short stories intertwined with original music, dance routines and physical theatre. The ultimate South African experience presented by the producers of the five and four-star Fringe show of I am Rhythm, Sowhereto Africa and Cell Block Soweto returning to the festival city with an eight-piece ensemble directed by Morgan Njobo.
3rd-14th, 16th-29th. (Performers of Colour)
So there you have it, maybe not all but hopefully most of the diverse voices performing at the Edinburgh Fringe this year. Are you going? Let me know in the comments who you can’t wait to see!