12 Free-to-see acts well worth your attention at Fringe 2024.

The Edinburgh Fringe is an expensive affair for acts and punters alike, with numerous costs involved such as venue hire, accommodation, and promotion. However, despite the financial challenges, the festival embodies a unique and vibrant spirit that resonates with performers and audiences. To support this essence of the fringe, consider exploring a variety of amazing acts offered for free or through a “pay what you think the show was worth” model. This not only provides an opportunity to discover emerging talent and unconventional performances, but also allows you to contribute directly to the artists who pour their creativity and energy into their shows. By engaging with these offerings, you can actively participate in sustaining the dynamic and inclusive atmosphere that defines the Edinburgh Fringe.

6 Steps To Success From The “Award Winning” Dave Chawner

Last year, an award win sparked self-reflection and a crisis of confidence, leading Chawner to explore the true meaning of success.

Stella Graham: Phoenix

Veteran Fringe performer Graham talks about rising from the chaos of her upbringing with nine siblings in Coventry .

Burt Williamson: 100% The Greatest Comedian Alive or Dead (No Refunds)

Critically acclaimed Bristolian Williamson returns with his second hour of smart/stupid, silly/serious observations.

Sam Dodgshon’s Memory is Full

Sam Dodgshon has been collecting photos for 25 years and now wants to share them with the world in a new show. Using his photo collection, he explores memory, childhood, and profound questions about existence and legacy.

Jake Baker: Rule Breaker!

Jake Baker, typically gentle, breaks convention after a frustrating game of Monopoly leads him to challenge the rules and more besides.

Mark Silcox: Women Only

Dr Silcox contemplates womanhood and apologises for their historical mistreatment, while also highlighting the empowerment of women, particularly in women’s football and asks influential women to use their power wisely on weaker men trying to run everything.

Nathan Cassidy: International Man of Mestory

The multi-award-winning Cassidy brings two new shows to the Fringe, including this one on finding fun in a chaotic world. (Brighton Fringe Best Standup 2022 & 2023)

Olaf Falafel Asks: Has Anyone Ever Actually Woven a Sigourney?

The ever-undefinable Falafel brings his latest bag of gentle ridiculousness to delight another Fringe. Expect at least one of the Funniest Jokes of the Fringe.

Ian Stone is Keeping it Together

Ian Stone is striving to stay composed despite the chaotic state of the country, conflict in the Middle East, and the potential return of Donald Trump to the White House. (Winner of Spirit of the Fringe 2023)

Alex Camp: Songs About Love and Food

Musical comedian Camp addresses Noughties nostalgia, how to break bad news with a guitar, and a ginger guy’s plea to end racism. (Nominated for Leicester Comedy Festival Best Variety Show 2024)

Markus Birdman: We Are All in the Gutter, But Some of Us Are Looking at the Gutter

Multi-award-winning yet bizarrely un-famous Fringe stalwart Birdman returns with another hour of may-contain-art material. As seen on Britain’s Got Talent (Chortle Award nominated 2023).

John Robertson: The Human Hurricane

The force of nature that created Fringe cult hit The Dark Room will present an hour of high-energy improvised comedy chaos, featuring crowd work, crowdsurfing, and electric ukulele.