Fringe First-winning hit The Horse of Jenin returns to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe following a sell-out run and widespread critical acclaim in 2025. Palestinian actor and comedian Alaa Shehada brings his darkly funny and moving solo show back for a limited engagement at the Pleasance Courtyard.
Blending theatre, storytelling, comedy, mask work and personal memoir, the production draws on Shehada’s experiences growing up in Jenin in the occupied West Bank. At its centre is the story of the Horse of Jenin, a 15-foot sculpture created from rubble following the 2002 invasion. Built as a symbol of imagination, community and resilience before being destroyed, the horse becomes the emotional anchor for a story about memory, friendship and survival.
Rather than focusing solely on politics, The Horse of Jenin explores everyday life behind the headlines. Through vivid storytelling and humour, Shehada introduces audiences to family, neighbours and childhood milestones, revealing moments of warmth and absurdity alongside hardship.
The show has gained international recognition, including being named one of Rolling Stone’s Top 10 Shows of the Fringe, with critics praising its emotional honesty and humanity. Reflecting on the response, Shehada said: “This is ultimately a story about people. It’s about friendship, family, community and growing up… what audiences connect with are the human stories underneath it.”
Presented as part of the wider Palestine Comedy Club programme, the production sits alongside other works highlighting contemporary Palestinian voices through theatre and storytelling.
The Horse of Jenin runs at Pleasance Courtyard from 18 – 30 August at 13:15. Tickets are on sale here
