The number of children’s shows at Edinburgh festival seems to be ever increasing, with even more opportunities to introduce even the littlest of little ones to the joys of live theatre and interactive productions…shows catered to very young audiences can be some of the most memorable, with beautiful colourful sets, costumes, interactive moments and lots of creativity !
Here are our top five picks for this year for those under five…
Float – This is an intriguing idea from Starcatchers who make beautiful things for small people and one that could work really well for those folk with babies aged 0-12 months – a longer interactive performance which you can come and go from as you need/feel – Float invites you to relax with your baby and enjoy a gently interactive performance inspired by the healing powers of water. You and your baby are free to explore, engage with the performers or unwind in Float’s tranquil space. Float is a three-hour durational performance designed to relieve the pressure of time. Your ticket allows you to come and go during this time to suit the needs of you and your baby. Age 0-12 months
FoRT – Exploring the joy of building forts and making imaginative spaces, this looks super cute and creative for wee ones. FoRT: A multi award-winning show inspired by the timeless craft of turning living rooms upside down. Watch and be amazed as everyday objects transform into fantastical places to play and explore using ridiculous clowning, spectacular acrobatics and beautiful visual imagery. This is an inspiring and delightful new theatrical experience that you and the whole family will enjoy. Age 3 years +
Hello Beach – Our mini-reviewer enjoyed Hello Birds last year, so we’re looking forward to this production and seeing Bran and Tor again…. Following the hugely successful Hello Birds in 2025, Bran and Tor are back and joined by new friend Piper for a day out at the beach. Who will we meet on our seaside picnic? An interactive multi-sensory storytelling show for 0-2 years, featuring puppetry, singing and key-word signing. Age 0-2 years
Tweedy’s Massive Solo Show – We loved Tweedy two years ago and are very excited for this new solo show !! Following the success of Tweedy’s Massive Circus, Tweedy the Clown makes his festival debut with this joyful solo show for all ages. Tweedy finds himself battling mischievous props in a series of increasingly absurd situations, but however chaotic things become Tweedy can always find a creative way to get out…Age 0+
Splash Test Dummies – We LOVE the Dummies !!!! And are super happy this splashtastic show is back…Rub-a-dub-dub, The Dummies are back with their ‘splashingly awesome adventure’ (EdinburghFestivalsForKids.com) set to drown you in tears of laughter. Splash Test Dummies are here, ready to roll out their beach towels and spring into an hour of circus-filled hilarity for the whole family. See a brilliant array of catch-your-breath stunt work, acrobatics, juggling and the side-splitting, slapstick comedy for which the dummies are famous. Age 0+
We also have firm favourites returning from last year that we’d love to give a special shout out to :
Oh my goodness, time is whizzing by and here we are, prepping for another Edinburgh festival in only a few weeks time and I always have great intentions of compiling this list earlier and life seems to just have that habit of getting in the way ! The festival is starting a week later this year, on the 7th August so in only a few weeks we’ll be immersed in all the incredible things it has to offer…so still plenty of time to get prepped…
As always, it is so difficult to whittle down all the amazing children’s shows on offer into a top recommendations list – this year there are almost 150 children’s shows to choose from, and that’s not counting all the fantastic circus, magic, cabaret and music on offer too !! You can check them all out here ..
We have got some firm favourites returning, and I’ll be doing a separate top picks of shows for younger children, and once again for older kids/teens as my own family changes along the years…I am sure I will miss something new or exciting or unique – so please do get in touch with your own recommendations too ! I love discovering all that is on offer for the younger (and young-ish) audiences at the festival.
So, for 2026, our top recommendations are :
The Listies: 110% Ready – Dearest reader, if you are atall familiar with this blog, you will know that we are HUGE fans of The Listies and have been loving their shows at the fringe for around 10 years now and we will certainly not be missing out this year. The Listies have a unique ability to effortlessly entertain both adults and children and the giggling literally does not stop. My cheeks always ache from laughing after seeing this madcap duo. The Listies return with 110% Ready – a comedy disaster movie about the morning routine. Rich is determined to do the impossible: leave the house on time! Matt, however has other ideas. Expect a poop-load of puns, slapstick, a splash of improvisational idiocy and the Snot Ness Monster! Age 4+
The Elves and the Shoemaker – We first saw this back in 2012, when my children were much smaller…and I still remember it to this day which is the sign of a very great show ! Theatre of Widdershins make incredible puppets and intimate sets which are intricate and versatile and the storytelling weaves it all together brilliantly. Beautifully crafted set and puppets, sublime music, a kaleidoscope of miniature shoes and a comic mouse make this show a magical must-see. Suitable for all ages and shoe sizes. Age 3 +
Showstopper! The Kids Show – This is another favourite of ours which is happily returning this year. You can imagine that asking an audience of children for the theme and characters for an improvised musical show has some pretty creative outcomes…and that’s the highlight of this show, which is never the same twice ! If your children could create their very own dream musical, where would they start? The Showstoppers turn your kids’ ideas into marvellous, mischievous adventures from scratch, in front of their noses. Kids decide where the story’s set, who the characters are and what happens next – and there’s lots of chances to join in! Age 5 +
The Truth About Trees – This looks like a cute little show with an appropriate environmental angle, in an intimate venue which may suit a younger audience better. When Alfie’s Grandpa reveals that paper, if made correctly, can tell the story of the tree it came from, Alfie isn’t sure whether to believe him. Once he starts to listen closely, Alfie realises that he is the only one listening. He must spring into action to save the trees from being chopped down. Told using actors, puppets and shadows, The Truth About Trees is a heartwarming story about nature, stories and standing up for what you believe in. Age 5 +
Hugo’s Rainbow Show – Now this looks very lovely indeed and something a little different to bring the kids along to…A drag show for kids about the science of rainbows! Join New Zealand superstar Hugo Grrrl for a musical, magical adventure exploring the skies above. Can you help find Ray The Sun, Misty The Cloud and Wayne The Rain? Maybe even the fabulous Archie The Rainbow?! Together our weathery friends make the mysteries of meteorology fun, all while proving the power of glitter, dress-ups and friendship through original songs, stories and – of course – outrageous costumes. Best for 2-10 year olds and neurodiverse friends, but even big kids will love this wholesome, goofy and glamorous experience. Ages 2- 10
Boys Don’t Dance – This was in Edinburgh as part of the imaginate and it looks really great and inspiring – Boys Don’t Dance is a poignant dance theatre show by acclaimed disabled artist Marc Brew, reflecting on his lifelong journey defying societal expectations to embrace his love for dance. Combining movement with BMX and wheels, storytelling, lighting and an uplifting 80s soundtrack – alongside visual projections and animation, creating an immersive experience for audiences. Boys Don’t Dance celebrates individuality and the liberating power of dance, encouraging audiences to embrace their unique passions and find strength in their differences. Age 8 +
The Mystery of Pleasance Two – Immersive and mysterious – this looks great ! Kids love something interactive and this looks like its got a sprinkling of everything – and who doesn’t love a good whodunnit?…Calling all trainee detectives! Join us for The Mystery of Pleasance Two, an award-winning, board game style theatre show where your skills are needed to solve this thrilling murder mystery. Team up with super sleuth Danyah Miller to navigate through secrets and surprises. We’ll examine evidence, inspect video footage and interrogate suspects, every clue bringing us closer to the truth. Can we crack the case together? Expect intrigue, mischief, spontaneity and a sprinkle of magic. Get involved… get it solved! Age 8 +
Anatomy of the Piano (for beginners) – Now, I’m biased as I LOVE this venue – the Pianodrome is incredible and really needs to be experienced to see how enchanting it is, created entirely out of old abandoned pianos, all set in a round beautiful immersive space. So this is the ideal opportunity – take in a great kids show at the same time and see the magic of the Pianodrome ! A boy asks for a spaceship but gets a piano. The award-winning show of playful piano dissection, virtuosity and storytelling, featuring Bach’s wig, Beethoven’s moods and jamming with Fats Waller. Age 5+
Mark Watson Tries to Impress Children, for Some Reason – I have no idea what this will be like, but it’s brave to venture into doing a kids show, so let’s see what happens ! Mark Watson has done almost everything in comedy: awards, worldwide festivals, Taskmaster, other TV, radio, you name it. But not a kids’ show. Not until now. Is this wise? Age 5+
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Ten Thousand Hours – Gravity and Other Myths are bringing this well loved show back to the fringe again this year, and I know we’ve picked it as a top choice before, but we really do love it ! My son watched it, and as soon as it finished said, can we watch it all again please ? One hour just isn’t enough really for this one, I felt like I could watch the performers for far longer as they achieve incredible feats and playfully interact with each other. an ode to the countless hours of sweat and joy needed to achieve great things. Age 5 +
We also have firm favourites returning from last year that we’d love to give a special shout out to :
We haven’t managed to see quite as much this week as we were away over the weekend, and now it’s back to school…eek. We have squeezed in a show or two though of course, and a few snacks along the way. There is still lots on, and some new shows just starting, so do keep on exploring the festival programme….
Top picks this week have been :
Brave Space – Beautiful, immersive and intimate circus, where you are invited in to get up close and personal with the performers. A gentle and emotive start to the day….Visually stunning, with serene and graceful performances, Brave Space is an oasis amongst the hustle and bustle just outside
Boom – Emotive, energetic, playful and poignant…this circus takes you through a whirlwind of emotions and is seriously impressive. Boom is based on real events where performers met just after the outbreak of war in Ukraine, in March 2022, and its incredible what they’ve produced together to share here in Edinburgh.
For the littler ones, our mini-reviewer has enjoyed :
Dinosaurs and all that rubbish – Balancing both an environmental message and lots of fun, this show is sure to delight younger audiences and their accompanying adults alike !This show was a massive hit with our mini-reviewer, and also with me!
Splash Test Dummies – There is a reason why these guys are seasoned favourites of the fringe! Back with their aquatic themed silliness – Splash Test Dummies is a totally bonkers, fun show full of audience participation, slapstick comedy and splattered with some pretty impressive circus skills!
We’re delighted that Underbelly’s Circus Hub is returning to the Meadows again this year. Bringing with it a plethora of amazing shows that are sure to astound and amaze us all…and as ever, we’re hoping the churros stall will also be back for some delicious snacks !!
It feels like the number of incredible circus and physical theatre shows increases every year, and 2022 certainly looks jam packed with choice…
Underbelly’s Circus Hub is made up of two venues: The Lafayette and The Beauty. The two venues are named after one of the world’s most famous circus performers and illusionists – The Great Lafayette, and his dog Beauty, who famously both died in Edinburgh in 1911.
You can see all of the shows listed here and we’ve listed our top 5 picks below :
Circa: Humans 2.0 – We loved the original version of this incredible show (review here) – so we are super excited for this ! Ten bodies appear in a flash of light. They move in harmony for a fleeting moment and then descend into a sinuous trance. Towers grow and decay, bodies leap, and are caught, as physical limits are pushed to their extreme. – August 5th – 27th (not 10th, 15th, 22nd)
Splash Test Dummies – Readers of this blog know that we adore these loveable clowns and highly recommend a visit to share in their magic and hilarity…(review here). We reckon they are splish splashingly awesome ! See a brilliant array of catch-your-breath stunt work, acrobatics, juggling and the side-splitting, slapstick comedy for which the dummies are famous. – August 6th – 27th (not 15th, 22nd )
Cirque Alfonse: Animal – Cirque Alfonse takes us through a series of surreal farm fables served up with a touch of irreverence, impressive virtuosity and the company’s familiar comic touch. In this re-invented agricultural world, the farm is turned upside down! – August 6th – 27th ( not 10th, 15th, 22nd)
Circus Abyssinia: Tulu – We absolutely LOVED their show in 2017 (review here) – and are SUPER excited for this new show, celebrating the first African woman to win Olympic gold. Inspired by the true tale of an Ethiopian icon, Derartu Tulu, this unmissable showcase of superhuman strength blends breathtaking contortion, awe-inspiring acrobatics and mesmerising fire juggling with a rocking, exuberant soundtrack.- August 6th – 27th (not 15th, 22nd )
Brave Space – This looks really cosy and great for littler little ones…Brave Space is the building of a blanket fort, sneaking under a hoop skirt, an impulsive congregation in the tiniest of tents. Starting as a puddle of fabric on the floor, it grows to encompass a wondrous world of circus. Intimate and low tech, the audience sits nose-to-nose with an all-female cast of bold physical artists to build the world we want to live in, even for only a few shared moments.- August 6th – 27th (not 15th, 22nd )
I find this so hard, trying to pick out top recommendations from all the pages of amazing shows to see – we really are lucky indeed !! In 2022 the children’s shows section is jam packed and add into this the circus and physical theatre and we’ve got literally hundreds of shows to choose from…I’ll post some top picks for ‘littler little ones’ shortly, which gives me some wiggle room for some firm favourites here…
As always, I’m super keen to hear your top recommendations too and hope we find some new favourite companies out there this year….
Muse– Flip Fabrique are back and we couldn’t be happier – we have LOVED their previous shows Blizzard and Attrape Moi and cannot wait for this new performance – they always have us on the edge of seats with their gravity defying acrobatics and imaginative use of stage space and equipment. ”What does it mean to be a woman? Muse attempts to answer this question circus style! There’s hardly just one answer and exploring the question calls for some… acrobatics. Playing with gender roles, Muse offers up a refreshing view of contemporary circus” – 4th – 28th August (not 8th, 15th, 22nd)
Hamlet – Prince of Skidmark– Readers of this blog will know that we are HUGE Listies fans in this household !!!! We are delighted they are coming back to Edinburgh this August and bringing this show for it’s Edinburgh debut ! ”This is the bard, Listies style: ninjas, ghosts, pirate aliens, swords, dinosaurs and zombies. Hamlet: Prince of Skidmark is a side-splitting adventure that shatters the fourth wall and glues it back together with supersonic storytelling and silliness.” – August 5th – 28th (not 11th, 18th, 22nd, 25th )
The Ultimate Pickle – Paines Plough have brought some of my all time favourite children’s shows to the fringe in their unique Roundabout venue at Summerhall and I’m really looking forward to this one…hoping for some more of their magical, imaginative storytelling. ”Everything is awesome in Dill’s life. A loving mum, a loyal best mate, a granddad who plays the drums, and Jack Tornado: the oldest and best goldfish in the world. But when a ball of fluff falls from grandad’s book, everything changes forever. Could that be a… wolf!? ” – Saturday/Sundays only – 6/7th, 13/14th, 20/21st, 27th/28th August
Tom Brace – Embrace the Impossible ! – Again we are big fans of Tom Brace in this household after he amazed us with his tricks one lunchtime…Tom keeps his audiences highly entertained and is hugely charismatic, with just the right hint of charm ! I am in no doubt this new show will be as big a success as his last … ”Cluedo, Roald Dahl and one film in particular from 1985… Magician Tom Brace takes a trip down memory lane with a brand-new magic show for all ages. ” – 3rd – 29th August ( not 16th)
Manual Cinema Presents: Leonardo! A Wonderful Show About a Terrible Monster – Manual cinema create incredible multi-media shows – combining live music and songs, paper cut outs, puppets and diy cinema…its truly unique and promises to be very special indeed. ”Leonardo! tells the story of a monster who longs to be scary and the big decisions he must make along the way.” – 3rd – 29th August (not 15th )
Carnival of the Animals by Circa – Circa have previously brought us the amazing shows Humans and Circa: Wolfgang, so we are beyond excited for this year’s family offering and the awe inspiring acrobatics they effortlessly amaze us with. ”These zebras juggle and flip. These kangaroos skip and somersault. The elephants have rhythm and the dinosaur bones shake, clatter and roll to the music. Carnival of the Animals by Circa whisks you away on a thrilling circus escapade inspired by Camille Saint-Saëns’ delightful salute to feathers, fur and fins.” – 5th – 28th August (not 10th, 15th, 22nd, 23rd )
The Smeds and The Smoos – Tall Stories have been delighting us with their stage adaptations of Julia Donaldson’s well loved books for years and we’re hoping this show will continue the trend ! For the little little ones out there, puppets, songs and live action will bring this story to life – ”On a far-off planet, Smeds and Smoos can’t be friends. So when a young Smed and Smoo fall in love and zoom off into space together, how will their families get them back?” – 3rd – 21st August (not 6th or 17th)
A Very Old Man With Enormous Wings – This show sounds intriguing to me and I will definitely be checking it out. Its also a great reason to go and spend a morning in Summerhall, delighting in all it has to offer this festival season. ”Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s darkly comic tale brought to the stage for children and adults to share. In a kitchen of a theatre, two storytellers and their audience find something remarkable – a very old man with enormous wings. ” – 3rd – 28th August (not 15th or 22nd )
Circus Abyssinia: Tulu – We absolutely LOVED Circus Abyssinia’s last show here in 2017 – Ethiopian Dreams and we are so excited they are back this August with their new show. They totally amazed us with their joyfulness, colour and vibrancy…. ”Inspired by the true tale of an Ethiopian icon, Derartu Tulu, this unmissable showcase of superhuman strength blends breathtaking contortion, awe-inspiring acrobatics and mesmerising fire juggling with a rocking, exuberant soundtrack.” – 6th – 27th August (not 15th or 22nd )
Olaf Falafel’s Super Stupid Show – I sadly missed Olaf Falafel when he was last here, but all I heard was great things – so I won’t be doing that again ! This looks like something a bit different and sure to provide a few giggles along the way – ”Join comedian and children’s author Olaf Falafel for an hour of really stupid kids’ comedy plus a drawing lesson and possibly something that involves fishing, ducks, bumbags and sausages. Family-friendly frivolity that will leave you feeling a lot less intelligent than when you walked in.” – 4th – 21st August ( not 16th )
And seeing as I couldn’t squish everyone into this list – I’d just like to mention that some of our previous much loved shows that we’ve reviewed are returning in 2022, including :
edinburghfestivalsforkids 