Work in Progress shows are often fairly haphazard affairs, where the performers may refer to notes, happily follow comedic dead ends, and guage the audience’s reaction to different material and punchlines.
The positives for an audience is that for a small price they get to see a big name in a tiny venue deliver what is often an entirely unique performance never to be repeated.
It’s often also the case the the material has actually been pretty well developed between the listing being submitted for the Fringe programme and the show itself – equating to even more of a bargain.
This means they often sell out quite far in advance, so if you fancy any of these, don't delay booking them on the Edinburgh Festival Fringe website.
5. Jamali Maddix
Jamali Maddix is a regular face on television having featured on the likes of Never Mind The Buzzcocks, Taskmaster, Frankie Boyle’s New World Order and his own critically acclaimed series Hate Thy Neighbour. He'll be working on his new show at the Monkey Barrel from August 4-13 at 10.40pm each evening. Photo: Contributed
6. Rhod Gilbert
Back in Edinburgh for the first time since battling cancer, Rhod Gilbert is playing the tiny Wine Bar at Gilden Balloon Teviot at 8.45pm on August 21, 22, 23, 25, 26 and 27. If you've not got a ticket yet you're too late - it's already sold out - but keep on checking for more shows to be added. Photo: Contributed
7. Jordan Brookes
Fringe favourite Jordan Brookes became the longest reigning Edinburgh Comedy Award winner ever after landing the award the year before the global pandemic caused the Edinburgh Festivals to be cancelled. He's back with a Work in Progress at the Pleasance Courtyard at 10.50pm from August 2-8 and 21-17. Photo: Contributed
8. Daniel Kitson
One of the most critically-acclaimed performers of his generation, Daniel Kitson dazzles as both a standup and a storyteller (and often both at the same time). If you want to see what the fuss is about, you'd better snap up tickets for his Work in Progress 'First Thing' quickly - many dates are already sold out. He's playing Summerhall's Roundabout venue at 10.30am every morning except Tuesdays. Photo: Contributed