What is this show?

The Edinburgh Fringe can be a daunting place; an overwhelming smorgasbord of productions. So many shows available but how do you know which ones are good and which ones are.. erm... not so good? Mervyn Stutter’s legendary Pick of the Fringe cuts through the noise to help audiences helping answer the age-old question, "Have you seen anything good?" and find the perfect shows for them. After 29 years this show is now often affectionately referred to as the 'Royal Variety Show of the Fringe'.

Every day Mervyn and his team of arts professionals scour the festival to identify seven shows to invite to stage a five-minute 'taster' and to speak with Mervyn – and his trademark pink suit – about the performance and performers. This unique daily showcase covers all genres of performance, from comedy, theatre and cabaret to music, dance and circus – and everything in between! With insights gleaned over a highly entertaining 90 minute lunchtime extravaganza, the audience can be confident in booking their own picks of the Fringe. And remember, 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, 21st, 23rd)

12.40pm - 2.10pm

Please note: our 30th Year Charity Gala is on Monday 21st August 2023

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.