By Andrew | Theatre Village
With thousands of shows descending on Edinburgh each August, you’d be forgiven for wondering how on earth anyone can choose what to see — let alone review. At Theatre Village, we don’t just throw a dart at the programme and hope for the best. There’s a method to the madness, and before we’ve even sat down in our seat, a quiet sort of detective work has already been happening behind the scenes.
So, how do we pick which shows make it onto our must-see list at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe?
It Starts with Potential
We look for promise — that intangible spark that suggests a show might be something special. It starts with research. Who’s behind it? Who’s performing in it? Who’s directing? A new show from an emerging writer with an interesting voice? A bold reimagining by an exciting director? Or perhaps a piece devised by a company we’ve seen flashes of brilliance from before? These are the clues that begin to build a case.
We take a long, hard look at the people. Has this actor been part of an acclaimed production before? Has this company quietly built a name for themselves in the off-West End circuit? Do they have a knack for storytelling that’s both accessible and affecting? We look through CVs like they’re case files, always trying to get a sense of the creative chemistry brewing behind the poster.
Location, Location, Location
Where a show is being staged also tells us a lot. Some venues are known for consistently curating excellent work – whether that’s Summerhall for its bold, experimental programming, or the Pleasance for nurturing polished, tightly-run productions. It doesn’t mean every gem is in a ‘big name’ venue — far from it. But it does help build a picture. The right show in the right venue? That’s worth taking seriously.
Press Releases & Online Presence
Once we’ve shortlisted a few potential picks, it’s time to see how they present themselves. A well-written press release doesn’t need to be flashy — it needs to know its own voice. We read dozens of these, and it’s easy to tell when a company understands the why behind their work. Are they just using buzzwords? Or are they genuinely trying to start a conversation?
And then there’s the social media test. A show with great Instagram reels, enthusiastic tweets, or well-crafted trailers doesn’t guarantee quality — but it does hint at professionalism, thought, and energy. If they’re this thoughtful in how they present themselves online, chances are they’ve put care into their show, too.
It’s All an Educated Gamble
Let’s be honest — nobody knows for sure. Even the most exciting concept can fall flat, and even the quietest flyer might lead to something unforgettable. That’s the Fringe. But the joy of being a reviewer isn’t just reacting to what’s on stage — it’s spotting the signals that something good is coming.
Theatre Village believes in backing boldness, championing potential, and staying curious. We don’t wait for the five-star reviews — we try to discover the next big thing before the rest of the crowd. We’ll take a punt on a debut play in a basement at 11am, or chase a show with only 34 followers if something in the blurb feels honest and raw.
Some shows run previews too whereby a reviewer will see the show before it hits Edinburgh Fringe. We don’t need to see a standing ovation to know something’s special. Sometimes, the signs are already there.
Yes Theatre village are attending Edinburgh Fringe this year so will able to let you know what to see.
And Grace Hatchell has a few thoughts, too…
Now darlings, let’s be clear — you can’t sniff out a hit without sticking your nose in the right places. I’ve seen shows where the poster’s shinier than the performance, and others where a dodgy flyer hides an absolute gem. But if the press release reads like it was typed by someone actually passionate, and the socials have just the right dose of chaos and charm — that’s when my theatre senses start tingling. I say, follow the vibes and trust your instincts. Or better yet, follow me — I’ve got a satchel full of secrets and I always deliver.
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