Edinburgh Fringe Flashback: A Look At Past Festival's Best Shows

A Look Back At Edinburgh Fringe's Acclaimed Past Performances

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, a global celebration of arts and culture, consistently delivers groundbreaking performances. Looking back at previous years reveals a rich tapestry of critically acclaimed comedy and theatre that continues to inspire.

Comedy Highlights Through The Years

Past Edinburgh Fringe festivals have showcased a remarkable array of comedic talent, with many shows receiving top ratings and widespread praise. From introspective stand-up to surreal sketch comedy, the Fringe has consistently provided a platform for diverse voices and innovative performance styles.

• Five-Star Comedy: Shows like Mat Ewins' "Adventureman 7: The Return of Adventureman" were lauded for their multimedia mayhem and pure joy. Sarah Kendall's "One-Seventeen" was praised for its ability to blend poignant observations on cancer and autism with perfectly timed gags. "Mouthpiece" offered an insightful portrayal of womanhood, while "BlackCatfishMusketeer" was celebrated for its witty script and infectious energy.

• Four-Star Stand-Up: Jonny Pelham's "Just Shout Louder" was noted for its thoughtful exploration of personal limitations and experiences. Mae Martin's "Dope" was described as addictive and compelling, while Fern Brady's "Suffer, Fools!" offered searing honesty and an easy rapport with the audience. Sara Pascoe's "LadsLadsLads" was a triumphant return, balancing indelicate humor with warmth.

• Innovative Comedy: Tom Walker's "Bee Boo" was characterized as raw and unrestrained, offering a unique, absurdist experience. Gein’s Family Giftshop's "Volume 3" was recognized as an original sketch act, and Elf Lyons' "Swan" was an anarchic and entertaining take on a classic ballet.

Acclaimed Theatre Productions

The theatre scene at the Edinburgh Fringe has also been a significant draw, featuring a range of experimental and impactful productions.

• Critically Praised Theatre: "Nutcrusher" was lauded for its honest exploration of sexual objectification. "work.txt" offered a unique, actor-less perspective on modern work culture. "Mustard" was celebrated as a powerful performance art piece about heartbreak and mental health. "And Then The Rodeo Burned Down" was a delightful mix of queer performance, clowning, and dance.

• Thought-Provoking Themes: Productions like "Birds of Passage In The Half Light" tackled generational trauma, while "Blanket Ban" provided a space to feel the depth of lived experiences surrounding abortion. "This Is Not A Show About Hong Kong" laid bare the realities of life in a surveillance state.

Emerging Talent and Awards

The Fringe also serves as a crucial launchpad for new talent. Awards like "The Besties" highlight emerging artists, recognizing their unique contributions. Winners such as Connor McKenna for "Seltzer Boy" and Toussaint Douglass for "Accessible Pigeon Material" demonstrate the festival's commitment to nurturing fresh perspectives and innovative storytelling.

Key Takeaways

• The Edinburgh Fringe consistently features a high caliber of both comedy and theatre, with many shows receiving critical acclaim.

• Past festivals have celebrated a wide range of styles, from introspective stand-up to experimental theatre.

• Emerging artists are frequently recognized, highlighting the Fringe's role in discovering new talent.

Sources

• The Skinny's Pick of the Best Shows at Edinburgh Fringe 2017, TheSkinny.co.uk.

• The Besties 2025: Week One Winners, TheSkinny.co.uk.

• Edinburgh Fringe 2017 review: Tom Walker, TheSkinny.co.uk.

• Edinburgh Fringe 2022: The Best Theatre Shows, TheSkinny.co.uk.

• Edinburgh Fringe 2017 review: Jonny Pelham, TheSkinny.co.uk.