The Unstoppable Rise of Ben Manager
Bunkum Ensemble and Pleasance • Professional company
About the show
The Unstoppable Rise of Ben Manager is a dark satirical theatre show from Bunkum Ensemble and Pleasance, performed at Above over 60 minutes. Ben witnesses a mysterious death at his job interview and picks up the victim's lanyard — just to keep it safe. What follows is an endless chain of promotions. Featuring surreal physical comedy, live music and plenty of useless jargon, the show skewers office culture where 'gaining traction' means everything and nothing. Winner of the Pleasance's Charlie Hartill Fund. Suitable for ages 14 and over. Contains scenes of violence, strobe lighting, strong language, and references to suicide and strangulation.
Why see this show?
A darkly funny satire on office life with live music and physical comedy, where a lanyard becomes the key to endless corporate promotion. Unsettling and very funny — like The Office directed by someone who genuinely means it.
Wednesday 30 July - Monday 25 August 2025
All performances at 17:20
23 performances
60 minutes
4 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025
£10
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The show runs for 60 minutes.
Where is it performed?
At Above.
What is the age guidance?
Suitable for ages 14 and over.
How much are tickets?
Tickets start from £10.
Are there any content warnings?
The show contains scenes of violence, strobe lighting, strong language, and references to suicide and strangulation.
What kind of show is it?
A dark satirical theatre piece featuring surreal physical comedy, live music and corporate jargon — a comedy about ambition and the meaninglessness of office culture.
About This Theatre Production
The Unstoppable Rise of Ben Manager is a theatre performance at Above 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.
Experience compelling storytelling brought to life by talented performers. Theatre at Edinburgh ranges from intimate black box productions to grand stage spectacles.
Venue: Above
Above 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 for trigger warnings if sensitive to certain topics
- •Most Fringe theatre runs without interval
- •Latecomers may not be admitted
- •Consider matinee performances for a relaxed experience
Booking Information
Ticket Prices: £10 - £17
Age Guidance: 14+
Content Warnings: Scenes of violence, Strobe lighting, Strong language/swearing, More information References to suicide and strangulation
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.The Unstoppable Rise of Ben Manager represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.
Looking for more theatre shows at Edinburgh Festival 2025?
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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API
