Three scary shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026…

Forget About Me | Pleasance Courtyard | 5-31 Aug
There were actually quite a few scary shows that I wanted to talk about this year, but you know, I had to narrow it down to three… with difficulty, so here they are. Firstly, you won’t forget about ‘Forget About Me’, a part magic show, part ghost story, in which designer-performer Dylan Howells uses psychological illusions and spine tingling effects to tell a magical and chilling tale. Find the edfringe listing here. 

A Ghost Among The Living | Pleasance Dome | 5-31 Aug (pictured)
We are always happy to see Box Tale Soup back at the old edfringe, as we’ve very much enjoyed their offerings here before. This new adaptation of classic works by Edgar Allen Poe combines supernatural storytelling with puppetry, original music and a shape-shifting set. So, great source material in very capable hands, make sure you do not miss it. Find the edfringe listing here. 

Kirsty Mann: Corpse | Summerhall | 6-30 Aug 
“Kirsty bought a house. Sure, it was derelict. And in a dodgy area. And OK someone just died in it. But she didn’t mind because she didn’t believe in ghosts. She does now”. Yikes, a real life ghost story from acclaimed writer, comedian and doctor Kirsty Mann, told via a show that blends comedy, storytelling and horror. Though I’m sure that won’t bother nonchalant sceptics like me. Eek. Find the edfringe listing here.