Highlights from Edinburgh Fringe Festival

Mark Thomas delivers a compelling performance in Ed Edwards's one-man prison drama, "Ordinary Decent Criminal," at Summerhall in Edinburgh. Thomas skillfully transitions between roles, from a terrorist to a drug lord, in this tense and nuanced play. The story unfolds in a modern Manchester prison with unusually good conditions, contrasting sharply with the infamous Strangeways prison, known for its overcrowding and riots.

Editor’s Note: This review highlights a standout theatrical performance that tackles gritty, real-world issues within the prison system. It matters because it not only showcases Mark Thomas's acting range but also sparks conversation about incarceration and justice—topics that resonate deeply in today's social climate. Plus, for theater lovers, it’s a must-see for its gripping storytelling and powerful solo performance.

In the play Niusia, Beth Paterson recounts her complicated relationship with her grandmother, whom she initially saw as a harsh and bitter old woman. Through the story, Paterson uncovers the painful truth that her grandmother was a Holocaust survivor, reframing her childhood memories with newfound understanding. The performance blends raw family history with dark humor, challenging audiences to reconsider generational trauma and the hidden scars of survival.

BBC reporter Courtney Bembridge dives into the lively world of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, trying her hand at juggling, circus acts, and improv singing alongside performers. It’s a fun, behind-the-scenes look at the creativity and energy of the festival.

Lorna Rose Treen, the comedian who previously won the "best joke of the fringe" award, is back with her new show "24 Hour Diner People." Performed at Edinburgh's Pleasance Courtyard, the act features her signature mix of surreal characters and sharp one-liners, this time set in a round-the-clock diner. Her earlier cheetah/cheater pun famously divided opinions, but this latest offering promises more of her trademark silliness.

Michael Kors is offering massive discounts of up to 70% off on crossbody bags, totes, backpacks, and more during their End of Season Event. The sale is a great opportunity to snag high-end accessories at a fraction of the usual price, making it a tempting time to treat yourself.

The article highlights five family-friendly shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, including a playful tube creature performance, captivating bird-themed acts for babies, and a fun adaptation of Joyce’s Ulysses for kids. One featured show is a shadow puppetry and object theatre production from Taiwan, centered around a grumpy old man, promising creativity and entertainment for young audiences.

Poet Raymond Antrobus opens up about his complex upbringing as a deaf child of mixed heritage, sharing how his father's hurtful words and his own struggles with identity shaped him. Now a father himself in Margate, he reflects on these experiences in his memoir, The Quiet Ear, framing it as a rallying cry for understanding and resilience.

A lively outdoor dance performance by Lebanese choreographer Omar Rajeh at the Edinburgh Festival blends protest and play, tackling themes like power and democracy with infectious energy. While the show's packed concept slightly weakens its political message, it delivers some of the festival's most joyful and participatory moments.

Urooj Ashfaq, the 2023 Edinburgh Fringe best newcomer winner, is back with a show that defies her "mild" reputation. Her latest performance, How to Be a Baddie, blends sharp humor and cheeky boyband-themed erotica, proving she’s anything but tame.