By Grace Hatchell
Every now and then, a Fringe show comes along with a title that makes you stop scrolling.
Why English?
It’s short, simple… but the more you think about it, the bigger the question becomes.
Created and performed by Vibhinna Ramdev, this solo show explores what it means to grow up in India speaking predominantly English, only to realise later in life that the language you’ve always called home can also leave you feeling disconnected from your own roots.
Now then, that’s not your average Fringe premise, is it?
Drawing on her own experiences, Vibhinna reflects on how the legacy of British colonialism still shapes everyday life decades after India’s independence. English remains deeply woven into education, business and society, but what happens when that language also becomes part of your identity? And what happens when that identity no longer feels quite so straightforward?
Rather than standing on stage and lecturing the audience, Vibhinna takes us on her own journey of self-discovery. Through personal stories, physical theatre, expressive dance and original music, she pieces together a story that’s as much about belonging as it is about language.
It’s the sort of show that asks questions without pretending to have all the answers.
Since premiering at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2023, Why English? has continued to grow, receiving Fringe Fund Grants from Arts Unlimited in 2025 and the Adelaide Fringe Foundation in 2026. That’s always a reassuring sign that a production has continued to develop rather than simply return for another run.
As someone who’s spent more than 25 years working across dance, theatre and film, Vibhinna brings a wealth of experience to the stage. Beginning her career as a dancer before moving into theatre and eventually developing her own physical theatre style, she’s clearly found a form that allows both movement and emotion to speak side by side.
Now, I’ll be honest with you. This probably isn’t one for people looking for daft costumes, slapstick comedy or an hour of switching your brain off.
But if you enjoy theatre that leaves you thinking long after you’ve left the venue, Why English? sounds like one of those hidden Fringe gems that quietly builds a loyal audience through word of mouth.
And isn’t that exactly what the Edinburgh Fringe is all about? Finding those unexpected shows that surprise you.
Grace’s Verdict
Sometimes the smallest questions open the biggest conversations. Why English? promises an honest, deeply personal exploration of identity, belonging and history, wrapped up in an inventive blend of physical theatre and storytelling. If you’re looking to balance your Fringe schedule with something thoughtful and emotionally engaging, this could well be worth adding to your list.ng richer through reflection and performance. That continued evolution promises audiences a show that has matured while remaining rooted in personal truth.
For anyone looking to experience a thought-provoking piece of contemporary theatre that tackles questions of language, heritage and identity with honesty and creativity, Why English? is one to add to the Fringe list.
Venue: Assembly – George Square – Studio Five
Dates: 10 – 16 August 2026
Time: 12:15 pm
Tickets: https://www.edfringe.
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