A guide to the Edinburgh Fringe 2025 at the Assembly Rooms

It's that time of year again! The Edinburgh Fringe festival is back, and we're gearing up to host our long-term partner Assembly for an outstanding programme of comedy, cabaret, theatre and music. For the month of August, the Assembly Rooms is transformed into a haven of performing arts led by an inexhaustible variety of acts and artists.

With so much to see and do, we know the Fringe can be overwhelming. That's why we have compiled a list of performances at the Assembly Rooms to watch out for. While not covering the full breadth of talent on display, this guide should offer you a taste of what to expect.

First on our list is Footballers Wives, a new British musical based on the iconic TV series following the fall and rise of captain's wife Tanya Turner as she schemes to save her marriage and her husband's career. This one is full of wit and packs an emotional punch.

Speaking of musicals, it wouldn't be the Fringe without Sunshine on Leith, a hometown favourite that tugs at the heartstrings and embodies the spirit of Edinburgh. This one is sure to sell-out so make sure you grab your tickets in advance.

If comedy is more your speed, catch two-time Live at the Apollo star Larry Dean for a hilarious show about identity, heroes and the benefits of being a dafty. For something more absurd, Cameron Sinclair Harris promises an hour of rampant silliness and cosmic yearning that will leave you forever stargazing.

On the more political side is Sorry: A Canadian's Apology for America, a sharp, raw commentary on the chaos of American politics and culture through the eyes of a perplexed, queer Canadian immigrant; and Alison Skilbeck's one-woman show exploring the public and hidden life of Eleanor Roosevelt.

For fans of hard-hitting storytellers, we recommend Sarah Baskin's whiplash comedy-drama that is Freaky Friday meets the classics, shattering ideas of gender, sexuality and desire; and Shake Rag Hollow, a tragic tale following protagonist Denise who returns to her hometown after serving prison time for her uncle's murder.

We hope this has provided a sample of what to look out for, but we have to admit: this barely scratches the surface of the extraordinary shows coming to the venue this year. Make sure to check out the rest yourself and grab your tickets on Assembly Festival's website.

Paul McKerrow, the venue's Front of House Manager, had this to say:

'When Assembly Festival are in, the whole place shifts gear. You’ve got brilliant shows, huge audiences, and a team who know exactly how to get the best out of the venue. It’s a proper partnership – and it works.'