Edinburgh Fringe is an incredible celebration of creativity and the arts. You can find all sorts of shows from horror, to comedy to the downright unhinged (I’m particularly looking forward to The Gummy Bears’ Great War)
However, did you know that there are also Dungeons and Dragons themed shows and experiences? There are also a number of fantasy plays, role-playing game experiences, and comedies.
If, like this author, you’re a fan of playing Dungeons and Dragons in London AND are off to the Fringe this year, well, look no further as I’ve put together a list of things I’ll be trying to see. (I’ve already got my tickets for number 6!)
Here There Be Dragons: A Musical Quest
Here There Be Dragons is a musical that premiered at the Players' Theatre off-Broadway in 2022. Newcomers O'Neill and Teris have created a lovable, high-energy musical that explores the liminal space between our own identities and the identities we create for ourselves. The contemporary score and energetic staging are delightful and engaging. A sexy, quirky and hilarious look at growing up in a hurry while maintaining the fantasy and wonder that make us who we are.
Group: Steel Penguin Ensemble
2. Comedians & (Similar to but Legally Distinct from) Dragons
Join three comedians who almost certainly have no idea how to play Dungeons & Dragons, as they attempt to go on a live fantasy adventure! Questing ain't easy especially when the audience can change the outcome of dice rolls. Will our adventurers survive? Based on previous audiences, almost certainly not! No knowledge of D&D or anything like it required (rules lawyers absolutely welcome though). So come and watch some ridiculous fantasy characters make some very poor decisions!
Group: Steel Penguin Ensemble
3. Tartan Tabletop in a Dungeons & Dragon Comedy: The Never-Ending Quest – The Return
A quest that began at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2023, and completed a sold-out run, returns for a sequel – the popular Dungeons & Dragons podcast team lands at the Fringe with the Never-Ending Quest – The Return! Improvised comedy at the roll of a dice, expect teamwork, nerdy jokes and guest-star comedians playing Noblin the Goblin. Don't worry about the plot, we don't! Expect laughs, adventure and random acts of sorcery from the Tartan Tabletop gang of misfit adventurers.
Group: Future Artists
4. Side Quest
Come merry folk from yonder to craft an original tale with the aid of your Story Master and a sprinkle of imagination. Fill in a character sheet, then watch your creations spring to life as they embark on an epic quest (or go way off track!). Will they fight a dragon? Save a village of pixies? Or get stuck in a dungeon and eat each others' shoes? Anything can happen! Your characters, your locations: their very fate is in your hands. An interactive, unscripted fantasy fun-filled show for all.
Group: Dirty 20
5. Blood on the Clocktower: Live
The award-winning social deduction game Blood on the Clocktower returns to the Fringe as a live comedy show. Hosted by Jon Gracey (Werewolf: Live, No Rolls Barred) and featuring a revolving cast of comedians, Blood on the Clocktower: Live is a night of gothic chaos and carnage. Will the townsfolk of Ravenswood Bluff finally destroy the demon – or will they only destroy each other? 'Best board game of all time (Board Game Rundown). Recommended by Shut Up and Sit Down. Best Party Game 2022 (Tabletop Gaming Magazine UK).
Group: The Pandemonium Institute with Treehouse Productions
6. Werewolf: Live
Comedians lie, manipulate and backstab as they try to uncover the murderous werewolves in this fresh take on the comedy game show. Ghost mayor Jon Gracey (The Beta Males, No Rolls Barred) hosts. Previous guests include: Nish Kumar, Rose Matafeo, Ed Gamble, Mae Martin, Paul Chowdhry and many more. Expect chaos.
Group: Treehouse
7. Werewolf (not to be mistaken with Werewolf: Live)
Surrender yourself to a comedy-thriller experience inspired by the classic game of deception. What feels like a game by daylight takes on new life when plunged into the night. Created by one of New Zealand's most innovative theatre companies, Werewolf features chilling sound design and a unique immersive style; you can be a fly on the wall or take charge of the situation. However you decide to play it, you will become part of a community coming together to make it through the night. But what is hiding in the darkness that is making everyone so nervous?
Group: Binge Culture
I’m sure there are even more than this, but these were the ones that caught my eye, and if you enjoy playing Dungeons & Dragons (or any RPG) and are based in London then please do come and check out RPG Taverns in SE1 London.
We offer full immersive Dungeons and Dragons sessions in themed rooms from Tuesday to Sunday, complete with our own Gamemasters, gripping original story, dice and minis!
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