August is fast approaching which means it’s time to scour the Edinbugh Festival Fringe programme for the best shows to see.
The physical programme was launched earlier this month, with 3,352 show across 265 venues, and some are already selling out.
It can be a fairly daunting prospect to narrow those down when organising your Fringe.
It’s always nice to take a chance on something, hoping to be the first to see a hot new act - but sometimes it’s just nice to see somebody familiar from television.
Since 2004 the BBC’s Live at the Apollo has been one of the most popular small screen showcases for standup comedians - acting as a rite of passage for those on their way to fame and fortune.
Those appearing on early episodes included the likes of Jo Brand, Lee Mack, Jimmy Carr, Jason Manford, Russell Howard, Sean Lock and Dara Ó Briain.
And, while it’s not watched by as many people as in its heyday - when everybody in Britain seemed to know Rhod Gilbert’s ‘lost luggage’ routine - it’s still seen to be one of the most prestigious TV bookings for both up-and-coming and established comics.
Here are 31 who have made the grade and are appearing at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025. You can buy tickets for all the shows here.
21. Jessica Fostekew: Iconic Breath
"A monster's guide to tolerance and temperance." Monkey Barrel, August 11-24. | Contributed
22. Nish Kumar: Nish, Don't Kill My Vibe
"Following an election year – with the country in turmoil – there’s only one comedian who can kill the mood even further…" Assembly at George Square, August 1-10. | Contributed
23. Emmanuel Sonubi: Life After Near Death
"This deeply personal yet laugh-out-loud show explores his near-fatal heart failure, recovery and the unexpected comedy in life's darkest moments." Pleasance Courtyard, July 30-August 25. | Contributed
24. Paul McCaffrey: What a Time to Be Alive
"Modern life is annoying but was it really much better before?" The Stand, August 18-24. | Contributed