Serious Nonsense

Serious Nonsense

Ben Macpherson / PBH's Free FringeProfessional company

60 minutesDownstairs Room
Funny, horrible and just a bit naughty, Serious Nonsense returns for its third year. Ben Macpherson brings his perfect gateway into the afternoon with poems for all ages. Meet the awful adults, beastly brats and curious creatures from this verbal tour de force. Ben's poetry blends magic and mischief, leaving you chuckling long after its final rhyme. Serious Nonsense has been seen across the country including at Latitude Festival and Splore Festival. If you liked Roald Dahl or Spike Milligan growing up, then this is the show for you. 'Fantastic' (Michael Rosen).

About the show

Serious Nonsense is a free spoken word and poetry show for all ages from Ben Macpherson, performed at Downstairs Room as part of PBH's Free Fringe. The show returns for its third year, bringing poems that are funny, horrible and just a bit naughty, populated by awful adults, beastly brats and curious creatures. Ben Macpherson's poetry blends magic and mischief across a 60-minute set. The show is suitable for children aged 8 and over, and is particularly recommended for fans of Roald Dahl or Spike Milligan.

Why see this show?

Sharp, silly poetry that works for children and adults in equal measure. Ben Macpherson's verbal dexterity keeps every age in the room genuinely entertained, and being free means there's nothing to lose by finding out what all the fuss is about.

Event Details

Saturday 2 - Thursday 21 August 2025

All performances at 13:15

20 performances

60 minutes

1 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025

Ticket Price

Free

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the show run?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

What is the age guidance?

The show is suitable for ages 8 and over.

How much does it cost?

Entry is free.

Where is it performed?

The show takes place at Downstairs Room as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Are there any content warnings?

No content warnings have been listed for this event.

What kind of show is it?

It is a poetry and spoken word children's show from Ben Macpherson, suitable for all ages from 8 upwards.

About This Family Show

Serious Nonsense is a children's shows performance at Downstairs Room during Edinburgh Festival 2025. Running for 60 minutes, this show is part of the world's largest arts festival, bringing together performers and audiences from across the globe.

Entertainment designed to delight audiences of all ages. These shows balance engagement for children with humor that adults will appreciate.

Venue: Downstairs Room

Downstairs Room is one of Edinburgh's Festival venues, hosting a variety of performances throughout August. Located in the heart of the city, the venue is accessible by public transport and within walking distance of other Festival locations.

Tips for Attending

  • Check age recommendations before booking
  • Shorter run times suit younger attention spans
  • Buggy parking usually available
  • Interactive elements keep children engaged

Booking Information

Ticket Prices: From £null

Age Guidance: 8+

Content Warnings: None

Book early to avoid disappointment. Popular shows sell out quickly during Edinburgh Festival.

Part of Edinburgh Festival 2025

Edinburgh Festival transforms Scotland's capital into the world's leading cultural destination every August. With thousands of performances across hundreds of venues, the festival offers unparalleled choice for culture lovers.Serious Nonsense represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

Looking for more children's shows shows at Edinburgh Festival 2025?

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API