Gilded Balloon has placed 105 new shows on sale for the 2026 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, marking its largest programme release to date.
The new slate spans comedy, theatre, musicals, cabaret, variety and children’s shows, offering a wide‑ranging mix of established acts, rising stars and international artists.
Artistic Directors Karen and Katy Koren said: “We’re delighted to be putting a further 105 brilliant shows on sale as part of this year’s Fringe programme, with even more still to be announced. This line-up brings together some of the most exciting talent working today alongside the next generation of performers, and truly reflects the breadth and energy of the Fringe.”
Headline names include Gregor Fisher, Rich Hall, The Guilty Feminist and Phil Nichol, who returns with two shows including the 20th anniversary of his Edinburgh Comedy Award‑winning The Naked Racist.
Rising talent making Fringe debuts includes Madeleine Brettingham, Adi Parmar, Fab Goualin, Hannah Byczkowski and Shane Daniel Byrne. Scottish artists are strongly represented, with new work from Eva Peroni and Alan Jay alongside returning favourites Kim Blythe and Kathleen Hughes.
Gilded Balloon’s legendary late‑night institution Late’n’Live returns for 2026, continuing its tradition of big‑name special guests and chaotic, high‑energy comedy. Best Of So You Think You’re Funny? also returns, showcasing finalists Reb Day, Joel Walker and Rachel Porter.
Comedy highlights include Gregor Fisher: An (Early) Evening With Gregor Fisher, Madeleine Brettingham: Legend and Rich Hall: Chin Music. The Guilty Feminist brings its Road to Gilead Project, while Fiona Allen returns with White Lies.
Further standout comedy comes from Kathleen Hughes: Twig, Reuben Solo: Someone in This Crowd Will Betray Me [Revenge Edition] and Christian Dart: GUMSHOE!. Emmy and Golden Globe winner Guy Branum brings Be Fruitful, blending humour with social commentary.
Theatre highlights include SLAY, a darkly funny piece exploring trauma and coping mechanisms, Silent Disco, a headphone‑led psychological experience, and HESS, Michael Burrell’s revival examining extremism and its legacy.
Additional theatre includes Ostrich, Top Gunchained, Boy in a Box and Waiting For Wonka, all offering imaginative and contemporary storytelling across the programme.
Cabaret and variety highlights include Fake from Chris Cook, EIGHT: The One (Wo)Man Drag King Musical Parody and Fungasm: Save or Smash. Music and musicals range from Crocodile Rock and Primary School Bangers to Unheard Voices, Unbroken Spirits and Antigone: A Town Hall Musical.
This year’s children’s and family offerings include Max Fulham’s Monkey Business and Mama G: The Magic Bookmark, with Bring Yer Bairn Comedy allowing parents to enjoy stand‑up with babies under 15 months.
Shows will run across Gilded Balloon’s four venues: the returning Teviot, Patter House, Gilded Balloon at the Museum and the newly added Gilded Saloon.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
