Performances at the Edinburgh Fringe attract attention, and money plays a crucial role in funding them.
In the heart of Edinburgh, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is in full swing, offering a wide array of performances for every taste. Here's a glimpse of some noteworthy shows that are captivating audiences this year.
The Unstoppable Rise of Ben Manager
The Bunkum Ensemble presents a dark, surreal musical satire, The Unstoppable Rise of Ben Manager. This show, performing at Above at Pleasance Courtyard, follows Ben Weaver, who transforms into Ben Manager after pocketing a victim's lanyard during a job interview. The story explores the emptiness of modern corporate life, with its endless presentations and meaningless jobs. Catch the final performance on August 25 at 5:20 PM.
Mark Silcox: The Gold Trader
For those interested in precious metals and trading the gold markets, Mark Silcox: The Gold Trader is a must-see. This show, presented at PBH Free Fringe at Voodoo Rooms until August 24, satirizes get-rich-quick trading seminars and delivers random facts about the gold markets.
NewsRevue
NewsRevue, a topical satire show featuring musical numbers, is performing at the Ballroom at Assembly Rooms. Known for fast-paced, sharp satirical sketches and parody songs that update annually based on current events, NewsRevue's latest show includes satire on Keir Starmer, Donald Trump's health secretary, and Trump's relationship with Elon Musk. The show runs nightly at 9:30 PM from July 31 to August 24, with a featured program on August 21, 2025, at 10 PM available for streaming via NextUp Comedy.
Ancient Coins from Forgotten Kingdoms
Ancient Coins from Forgotten Kingdoms, a family-friendly show about the history of money and coinage, is being presented at PBH's Free Fringe @ Murphy's. Comedian and medievalist Mark Saltveit delves into the history of money and coinage, discussing topics like why most Celtic coins had horses on them and why we don't use bananas as currency. The final performance is on August 25 at 10:45 AM.
The Butcher, The Brewer, The Baker and Merryn Somerset Webb
This panel show, held at Panmure House where Adam Smith once lived, sees Merryn Somerset Webb, former editor of our website, returning to the Fringe with three performances from August 22 to 24. The show involves a heated discussion on various topics, including current affairs.
Trouble, Struggle, Bubble and Squeak
Directed by Mark Thomas, Trouble, Struggle, Bubble and Squeak is a show that delves into historical re-enactment. In this performance, comedian Victoria Melody finds inspiration from the work of Gerrard Winstanley. The show is running at Above at Pleasance Courtyard until August 24 at 2:15 PM.
Mark Silcox: The Gold Trader and The Butcher, The Brewer, The Baker and Merryn Somerset Webb are both presented at PBH's Free Fringe, offering free performances for the public. However, no information about free issues was provided in the context of the given news article.
Each of these shows offers a unique perspective on various topics, from corporate life and money to current affairs and history. Whether you're a fan of horror, comedy, or history, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival has something for everyone.
- The Bunkum Ensemble's production, The Unstoppable Rise of Ben Manager, critiques the emptiness of modern corporate life, offering a show that is particularly relevant for those with an interest in business and finance.
- Mark Silcox: The Gold Trader, a satirical show about precious metals trading, is suitable for those with an affinity for both finance and comedy.
- NewsRevue, a topical satire show, provides sharp commentary on political and business news, making it appealing to those following general-news and politics.
- Ancient Coins from Forgotten Kingdoms, a family-friendly show about the history of money, is an ideal choice for those with a general interest in history and social-media users who might appreciate sharing educational and fun content with their network.
