By Grace Hatchell
If you’re searching for a new comedy at the Edinburgh Fringe that mixes humour with heart, Happily Ever NEVER could be one to add to your list.
Making its Fringe debut at theSpace @ Niddry Street Studio, this original production from Leeds-based LS6 Theatre follows a young woman working as a Disney-style princess performer who begins to question whether the fairy tale she’s paid to sell was ever written for someone like her.
Described as an audacious and heartfelt queer coming-of-age comedy, the 55-minute show promises laughter, awkward truths and emotional moments as it explores identity, expectations and the pressure to fit into someone else’s version of a happy ending. The production is written by Lydia Baggaley, whose previous work has tackled personal and socially relevant themes, and features a cast including Hannah Warrington, Sara Sheikh, Victor Edwards and Emily Yarham.
Performances run from 7–19 August (excluding 16 August) at 5:05pm, making it an ideal late-afternoon Fringe choice before heading off to another show. Audience members have also been warned they may be “gushed over by princesses… or Spiderman,” so don’t say you weren’t warned.
For anyone looking for fresh new writing, emerging theatre talent and a modern twist on the traditional fairytale, Happily Ever NEVER sounds like a production that isn’t afraid to ask difficult questions while still making audiences laugh.
Grace Says…
Right then, let’s get one thing straight…
If I end up getting hugged by Cinderella on the Royal Mile, I shall take it in good spirits.
If it’s Spiderman, I’ll probably ask him where he’s parked the web.
This show caught my eye because it doesn’t sound like your typical “princess saves the day” story. It sounds a bit messier, a bit funnier, and probably a lot more like real life. I do like theatre that makes you laugh one minute and quietly poke you in the ribs with something meaningful the next.
And can we just appreciate a company from Leeds bringing brand-new writing to the Fringe? That’s exactly the sort of thing I love stumbling across with me satchel over one shoulder and an ice cream that’s melting faster than I can eat it.
If you’re after a huge musical with flying chandeliers, this probably isn’t it.
If you’re after clever writing, a modern fairytale with something to say and a cast that looks ready to throw themselves into it, I’d say Happily Ever NEVER is well worth a look.
Just don’t blame me if a princess starts complimenting your outfit on the way in.
Happily Ever NEVER
Venue: theSpace @ Niddry Street Studio
Dates: 7–19 August 2026 (excluding 16 August)
Time: 5:05pm
Running time: 55 minutes
Age guidance: 14+
Happily Ever Never | Edinburgh Festival Fringe
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