Discover the Best Comedy at the Fringe: Our Top Picks for 2025

Right then, the Edinburgh Fringe is just around the corner again, and if you're anything like me, you're already wondering what's actually worth seeing. It can be a bit of a minefield trying to find the genuinely funny stuff amongst the thousands of shows. So, to save you some hassle, I've had a good look at what's on offer and picked out some of the best comedy at the fringe for 2025. These are the ones that have caught my eye and are likely to have you in stitches. Let's get to it!

Key Takeaways

• John Robertson is back with 'Plays With The Audience', promising crowd interaction and sharp wit.

• Danny Ward's 'The Holiday' looks set to be a multimedia comedy treat, based on his experiences.

• George Zacharopolous, already crowned 'Greek Comedian of the Year', is expected to deliver more comedic gold.

• Alexander Bennett's 'Light Entertainment (WIP)' offers a chance to see his dark, urbane humour in its early stages.

• Nina Conti brings her unique ventriloquism show 'Whose Face Is It Anyway?' to the stage, a real masterclass in improvisation.

1. John Robertson: Plays With The Audience

John Robertson is back at the Fringe, and this time he's bringing 'Plays With The Audience' to the Counting House Ballroom. If you caught his international hit 'The Dark Room' – which was the best-reviewed comedy show of the 2025 Edinburgh Fringe, by the way – you'll know he's a master of audience interaction. But Robertson isn't just about the immersive horror of 'The Dark Room'; he's also returning to his stand-up roots with this new show.

He's known for his sharp wit and his ability to roast an audience in a way that's surprisingly uplifting. Robertson has a knack for making people feel like they're in on the joke, even when they're the punchline. It’s a delicate balance, and he pulls it off with aplomb. Expect him to skewer sacred cows and cultural taboos with his signature style.

Here's what you can expect:

• A show that lives up to its name – be prepared to be involved.

• Robertson's trademark blend of dark humour and sharp observation.

• An exploration of his stand-up roots, away from the confines of 'The Dark Room'.

If you're looking for a comedian who isn't afraid to push boundaries and engage directly with his crowd, John Robertson is definitely one to see. Just don't be surprised if you find yourself the subject of his next bit. You can find more details about his performances here.

This show promises an hour of high-energy comedy where the audience isn't just watching, they're part of the performance. It's a bold approach that sets Robertson apart.

2. Danny Ward: The Holiday

Danny Ward is back at the Fringe with his new show, 'The Holiday'. It’s been a bit of a wait since we last saw him, but if his past performances are anything to go by, it'll be worth it. Ward's known for his sharp timing and his knack for multimedia comedy, making him a real standout.

This latest show apparently takes inspiration from the 2006 film of the same name. You can expect Ward to be using his projector skills, which he's pretty much a master of, to bring his stories to life. He’s got a way of making even the most mundane experiences hilarious, so I’m keen to see what he does with a film that’s all about, well, holidays.

He's a comedian who consistently delivers a polished and funny set. It’s always a good bet to catch him when he’s on.

Here's what you might expect:

• Clever use of visual aids.

• Relatable stories with a comedic twist.

• Ward's signature confident stage presence.

It’s always a good sign when a comedian has a clear concept for their show, and 'The Holiday' sounds like it has plenty of potential for laughs. Ward has a reputation for being on top of his game, so this should be a solid hour of comedy.

3. George Zacharopolous: Greek Comedian Of The Year

George Zacharopolous is back, and he’s once again crowned himself the ‘Greek Comedian of the Year’. Honestly, after seeing his 2024 show, ‘2025 Greek Comedian of the Year: Greek In the Sheets’, which actually bagged him the Best European Comedy Performer award, it’s hard to argue. He has a knack for turning life’s ups and downs into pure comedic gold.

His sets often feel like a whirlwind tour of his own adventures, the kind that start with the best intentions but perhaps not the most detailed planning. Yet, somehow, he manages to make it all hilarious. You think he’s landed a great punchline, and then he hits you with another, even better one. It’s that kind of masterful timing and genuine warmth that makes him such a joy to watch.

Zacharopolous has this incredible ability to connect with the audience, making even the most chaotic stories feel relatable and incredibly funny. He’s got that rare talent that suggests a big international career is on the cards.

Here’s what makes his shows stand out:

• Storytelling: He weaves personal anecdotes into his routines, making them engaging and memorable.

• Timing: His delivery is impeccable, with punchlines that land perfectly.

• Affability: He has a natural charm that draws the audience in.

If he keeps this up, he’ll be picking up awards for years to come. Definitely one to catch at the Edinburgh Fringe.

4. Alexander Bennett: Light Entertainment (WIP)

Alexander Bennett is back at the Fringe with his new work-in-progress, 'Light Entertainment'. Known for his sharp wit and a willingness to explore darker themes with a surprising amount of humour, Bennett has a knack for making audiences feel both seen and slightly uncomfortable, in the best possible way. His previous shows have shown a real talent for observational comedy that digs a little deeper than most, often turning the spotlight back on himself with a disarming honesty.

This show promises more of that signature style. Expect an hour of Bennett dissecting the world and his place in it, all delivered with that characteristic urbane charm. He has a way of finding the funny in the uncomfortable, making you laugh even when you're not quite sure you should be.

If you've seen him before, you know what to expect: intelligent, self-aware comedy that doesn't shy away from the awkward bits. If you're new to Bennett, prepare for a comedian who’s not afraid to be vulnerable, but always ensures the laughs keep coming.

Bennett's approach to comedy is like a well-crafted puzzle; each observation, each personal anecdote, fits together to create a larger, often hilarious, picture of the human condition. It's this thoughtful construction, combined with genuine comedic talent, that makes his work stand out.

5. Alastair Clark: On The Record

Alastair Clark has a knack for finding the heart of a story and making it sing with laughter. If his previous show, ‘Dear Joananette’, is anything to go by, this one should be a real treat. That 2019 performance was a masterclass in thoughtful, sharp comedy, proving that Clark shines brightest when he has a solid narrative to hang his jokes on.

He’s particularly good at weaving personal anecdotes into broader observations, making you laugh while also making you think.

Expect a show that’s both funny and has a bit of substance. It’s the kind of comedy that sticks with you long after the applause dies down.

Here’s what you might find in his set:

• A strong central theme or story.

• Observational humour with a personal touch.

• Moments of genuine connection with the audience.

Clark’s ability to connect with his audience through relatable stories is what makes his shows stand out. He doesn't just tell jokes; he shares experiences.

6. Stevie Martin: Clout

Stevie Martin is back with 'Clout', and it's a show that really gets you thinking about how we do comedy, both on a stage and, well, online. It’s a clever hour, packed with gags that seem to build on each other, like Russian dolls of funny. Martin manages to be both arch and silly, which is a tough balance to strike, but she nails it.

She plays with the idea of online fame and the pressure to be constantly 'on', which feels pretty relevant these days. You'll find yourself chuckling at the sheer density of jokes, each one popping out when you least expect it.

• The show explores the difference between live performance and digital presence.

• Expect a high number of jokes, tightly woven together.

• Martin's signature blend of wit and silliness is on full display.

It's a really smart look at modern comedy, wrapped up in a genuinely funny package. You might even find yourself looking at your own social media habits a bit differently afterwards.

7. Nish Kumar: Nish, Don’t Kill My Vibe

Nish Kumar is back at the Fringe with his latest show, 'Nish, Don’t Kill My Vibe'. Known for his sharp political commentary and no-nonsense approach, Kumar tackles the big issues of our time with his signature blend of righteous anger and dark humour. This show promises to be a deep dive into the current state of the nation, but also a personal exploration of where Kumar himself stands within it all.

He's become a go-to voice for many on the left, often seen as a barometer for societal discontent. But what happens when the comedian who dissects the world also has to dissect himself? This set looks at the personal cost of being a public commentator.

• The personal and the political collide.

• Expect sharp observations on current affairs.

• A chance to see a comedian at the height of his powers.

This isn't just about ranting; it's about understanding the 'why' behind the anger and the impact it has, both on the comedian and the audience. It’s a show that’s as thought-provoking as it is funny.

8. Nina Conti: Whose Face Is It Anyway?

Nina Conti is back at the Fringe with her show, "Whose Face Is It Anyway?", and it’s a real treat. She’s known for her brilliant ventriloquism, and this show really shows off her skills. She has this amazing ability to turn audience members into her puppets, making them say and do all sorts of hilarious things. It’s all improvised, so you never quite know what’s going to happen next, which is part of the fun.

Conti is a master of her craft, and watching her work is genuinely impressive. She manages to create these spontaneous, funny scenes that feel completely natural, even with a dummy on her hand. It’s a clever bit of organised chaos that somehow ends up being incredibly graceful and funny.

If you're looking for something a bit different and genuinely original, this is definitely one to catch. It’s a show that really highlights the magic of live performance and the sheer talent of the performer. It’s a fantastic night out and well worth the ticket price for a truly unique comedy experience.

• Improvisation: Every show is different, with audience interaction driving the comedy.

• Ventriloquism: Conti's skill with her puppets is second to none.

• Audience Participation: Volunteers become part of the show in a fun and unexpected way.

This show is a prime example of how live comedy can be unpredictable and incredibly rewarding. It’s a testament to Conti’s skill that she can take a simple premise and turn it into something so engaging and laugh-out-loud funny, night after night.

9. Nick Mohammed Is Mr Swallow: Show Pony

Get ready for a show that’s a bit of a wild ride, blending comedy with a touch of magic. Nick Mohammed, stepping back into his well-loved Mr Swallow persona, is bringing 'Show Pony' to the Fringe. This isn't just Mr Swallow being his usual loud, northern, know-it-all self, though. It feels like Mohammed is finally letting us see more of the real person behind the character. It's like a big reveal, a sort of coming-out party for the comedian who's kept his true self a bit under wraps until now.

Expect an hour that's genuinely funny and surprisingly revealing. It’s a clever mix of what you expect from Mr Swallow and something a bit more personal, making for a deliriously enjoyable experience. You might even find yourself thinking about it long after the show's finished.

Here's what you can expect:

• A healthy dose of Mr Swallow's signature bravado.

• Unexpected moments of genuine insight from Nick Mohammed.

• A unique blend of stand-up and magical elements.

• An hour that promises to be both entertaining and thought-provoking.

This show is a chance to see a familiar character in a new light, offering a glimpse into the mind of the comedian himself. It’s a bold move, and one that seems to pay off handsomely, creating a performance that’s both hilarious and unexpectedly touching.

10. Abby Wambaugh: The First 3 Minutes Of 17 Shows

Abby Wambaugh’s show, guided by director Lara Ricote, is a really clever piece of work. It’s like a collection of quirky ideas that all come together to tell a touching story about the comic’s miscarriage. It’s a powerful reminder that not every beginning needs a middle or an end to be meaningful.

This show is a bit different from your usual stand-up. Instead of one continuous set, Wambaugh presents the first three minutes from seventeen different shows. It sounds like a strange concept, but it actually builds into something quite moving.

It’s a testament to Wambaugh’s skill that she can create such an impact in such short bursts. The show explores themes of loss and the bravery it takes to even start something, even if it doesn't go the distance. It’s a unique approach that really sticks with you.

This show is a masterclass in structure, weaving together disparate creative sparks into a cohesive and affecting narrative. It highlights the beauty found in beginnings, regardless of their ultimate destination.

So, What Are You Waiting For?

Right then, that’s a wrap on our top comedy picks for the 2025 Fringe. We’ve tried to give you a good mix, from the big names you might already know to some exciting newer faces who are definitely ones to watch. It’s always a bit of a gamble picking shows, isn’t it? You never quite know what you’re going to get, but that’s part of the fun. Hopefully, this list gives you a decent starting point for planning your comedy adventures. Don't forget, there's loads more out there, so get stuck in and discover your own favourites. Happy laughing!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Edinburgh Fringe Festival?

The Edinburgh Fringe is a massive arts festival that happens every year in Scotland's capital city, Edinburgh. Loads of performers from all over the world come to put on shows, from comedy and theatre to music and dance. It's a really exciting time for the city!

How do I get tickets for these shows?

You can usually buy tickets online through the official Edinburgh Fringe website or the websites of individual venues. Sometimes, you can also buy them on the door, but popular shows can sell out fast, so booking in advance is a good idea.

Are there any free shows at the Fringe?

Yes, definitely! The 'Free Fringe' is a big part of the festival, where shows don't have a set ticket price. Instead, you pay what you think it was worth after the show. It's a great way to see loads of comedy without spending much.

What does 'WIP' mean in a show title?

'WIP' stands for 'Work In Progress'. This means the comedian is trying out new material and developing their show. It can be really interesting to see a show in its early stages, and you might get to see some jokes that don't make it into the final version!

How can I find out more about the comedians mentioned?

Each show usually has a listing on the Edinburgh Fringe website with more details about the performer and the show itself. You can also often find their personal websites or social media pages with a quick search.

What's the best way to get around Edinburgh during the Fringe?

Edinburgh is a very walkable city, especially the city centre where most of the venues are. There's also a good bus service, and taxis or ride-sharing apps are available. Just be prepared for crowds, as it gets very busy!