Rising comedy performer Liv Rocklin makes her Edinburgh Festival Fringe debut with An American (Not) in Paris, a sharply funny and deeply personal musical comedy blending stand-up, original songs and storytelling.
Described as an “OCD, ADHD, gluten free, Gen Z musical comedy”, the show takes audiences on a whirlwind journey through Rocklin’s obsession with control and the chaotic reality of trying to maintain it. Told through seven songs, six languages and five undiagnosed conditions, the piece dives headfirst into the beautifully messy inner workings of a mind on the brink.
Combining humour with unfiltered honesty, An American (Not) in Paris explores ambition, identity and the pressure to keep life perfectly on track. Drawing comparisons to performers such as Rachel Bloom and Bo Burnham, Rocklin delivers a fast-paced and self-aware performance that resonates with anyone who has ever felt their plans unravel.
Following success at US Fringe festivals, where it was named Best of Orlando Fringe 2025 and Funniest of the Fringe at Pittsburgh Fringe 2026, the show arrives in Edinburgh after further development Off-Broadway as part of the East to Edinburgh Festival. With its mix of musical comedy and candid storytelling, it offers a fresh and relatable take on what happens when life doesn’t go according to plan.
With a background spanning The Second City Chicago, the Broadway Comedy Club and performance venues across New York and Paris, Rocklin brings a wealth of experience to this genre-blending solo show. Directed by Hallie Rae Sebastian, with choreography by Alice Zelenko, the production combines theatrical flair with comedic insight.
Packed with wit, vulnerability and infectious energy, An American (Not) in Paris invites audiences to embrace the chaos, laugh at the absurdity and find beauty in losing control.
An American (Not) in Paris runs at Just the Tonic at The Mash House (The Bottle Room) from 6 – 30 August (not 18 August) at 18:10. Tickets are on sale here
