Edinburgh Fringe 2025: Comedy Stars Shine Amidst Award Buzz and Critically Acclaimed Shows

The Edinburgh Fringe 2025 is buzzing with comedic talent, showcasing a diverse range of performances and sparking early award buzz. From unique themed shows to established award contenders, the festival is shaping up to be a highlight of the comedy calendar. Audiences and critics alike are gearing up for a month of laughter and discovery across the Scottish capital.

Key Takeaways

• Diverse Award Nominees: The NextUp's Biggest Award in Comedy and ISH Edinburgh Comedy Awards have revealed their longlists, highlighting a strong field of emerging and established comedians.

• Unique Themed Shows: Events like the "Witch Trials" offer a novel way for audiences to engage with and vote for their favourite fictional witches.

• Critically Acclaimed Performances: British Comedy Guide's recommended shows list provides a curated selection of must-see acts, praised for their originality, humour, and performance quality.

Festival Highlights and Award Contenders

The Edinburgh Fringe 2025 is already generating significant excitement, with early announcements of award longlists and critically praised shows. NextUp's Biggest Award in Comedy has unveiled its nominees, featuring a strong lineup of comedians such as Ayoade Bamgboye, Ben Pope, and Sharon Wanjohi. The winner will receive a unique trophy, £500, and a recording opportunity.

Meanwhile, the ISH Edinburgh Comedy Awards, an alternative to the main Edinburgh Comedy Awards, has also released its longlists for Best Show and Best Newcomer. This independent award, driven by artists supporting artists, includes a wide array of talent, with shows like Kieran Hodgson's "Voice of America" and Mike Rice's "Cruel Little Man" making strong impressions.

Recommended Shows and Unique Experiences

British Comedy Guide has compiled a list of recommended shows, celebrating a variety of comedic styles. Highlights include Bella Hull's sharp wit in "Doctors Hate Her," Carl Donnelly's masterful storytelling in "Another Round," and Cat Cohen's engaging performance in "Broad Strokes." The list also features innovative shows like "Dead Air," a darkly comic look at AI, and "Fly, You Fools!," a parody of "The Lord of the Rings."

Adding a unique twist to the festival, Edy Hurst's "Witch Trials" invites audiences to vote for their favourite fictional witch, culminating in a live finale. Comedians like Edy Hurst are also performing their own shows, such as "Wonderfull Discoverie of Witches in the Countie of Himself."

Looking Ahead

With the festival in full swing, the buzz around these awards and recommended shows is set to grow. The coming weeks will see the shortlists announced, leading up to the final award ceremonies, promising a vibrant and laughter-filled conclusion to the Edinburgh Fringe 2025.

Sources

• Edinburgh Fringe 2025 reviews - British Comedy Guide, British Comedy Guide.

• Edy Hurst announces Edinburgh Fringe Witch Trials 2025, British Comedy Guide.

• NextUp's Biggest Award in Comedy announces 2025 nominees, British Comedy Guide.

• Recommended Edinburgh Fringe shows 2025, British Comedy Guide.

• ISH Edinburgh Comedy Awards 2025 longlists, British Comedy Guide.