Magic tricks, Palestinian circus, and a ‘kinky Hamlet’: the must-see shows at 2026’s Edinburgh fringe
The Guardian highlights a diverse selection of must-see performances at the 2026 Edinburgh Fringe Festival. The list includes comedy, magic, and experimental theater productions ranging from solo horror shows to satirical commentary on the economy.
Why it matters
The Edinburgh Fringe is one of the world's largest arts festivals, serving as a critical platform for emerging talent and cultural trends in the performing arts.
Edinburgh festival 2026 Magic tricks, Palestinian circus, and a ‘kinky Hamlet’: the must-see shows at 2026’s Edinburgh fringe From big-name standups to dance performances and experimental plays , here are our picks for an excellent festival
‘If you’d done that in the 90s, you’d be torn to shreds!’: comedy icons share their survival tips with Edinburgh first-timers
Explore the rest of our coverage of the Edinburgh festival 2026
Kate Wyver Sun 9 Aug 2026 04.00 EDT Share Prefer the Guardian on Google Kirsty Mann: Corpse To 30 August , Red lecture theatre at Summerhall Kirsty Mann bought a house – and it came with a ghost. Winner of the best theatre award at Adelaide fringe, this real-life one-woman comedy horror is dark, funny and deliciously disturbing.
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