What is this show?

The Edinburgh Fringe can be a daunting place. So many shows available but how do you know which ones are good and which ones are bad? Mervyn Stutter's legendary 'Pick of the Fringe' showcases have been helping answer the question, "Have you seen anything good?", for twenty eight years and is now often affectionately referred to as the 'Royal Variety Show of the Fringe'.

Every day Mervyn and his team of Arts professionals carefully research the Fringe and each day seven different Fringe Brochure listed shows are invited to perform a five minute 'taster' of their show. After their 'taster' has been performed, they are interviewed by Mervyn to add some interesting background information about the performance, the performers, and the company. With the insights gleaned from seeing these 'tasters' and hearing the interviews, you can confidently pick the ones you liked and go to see their entire show.

Merv’s daily showcase is unique as it covers all genres of performance: Theatre, Comedy, Cabaret, Music, Clowning, Mime, Acrobats, Spoken Word, Dance, even the indefinable. All-in-all it is a packed ninety minute lunchtime extravaganza and every day is a different show!

“Mervyn’s show and his annual Spirit of the Fringe Awards are a worthwhile reminder of what the Fringe was initially for.”

Stewart Lee

“From modest beginnings Mervyn has created a Fringe institution.”

Nicholas Parsons

“A vibrant, stimulating showcase of talent.”

The Scotsman

When is it on?

The 'Pick of the Fringe' show is on at 12.40pm every day except two. We start bang on 12.40pm so please be ready to take your seat at 12.30pm. Thank you.

5th-26th Aug 2023 (not 17th or 21st [NB 21st is our 30th Gala Day])

12.40pm - 2.10pm

Where is the venue?

We are in Pleasance One at the Pleasance Courtyard, Venue 33. Click for map.

How much are tickets?

All shows: £15.00

Over the 29 years of doing this show we have kept the prices as competitive as we can. We think we've done it again this year with our top price of just £10 per hour*! Buy tickets

* Remember, it is a 90 minute show, not one hour!

Want more information?

See our Frequently Asked Questions page for even more information about the show.