Why I Stayed...? A Gothic Review of Life?
Aleksandr Popov • Professional company
About Aleksandr Popov
Aleksandr Popov presents this dark comedy solo show at Just the Spare Room as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The show involves Popov talking to his 'self' and telling it the story of the insecurities and prejudices he held before his life turned to shambles. The narrative traces his inability to grieve properly for his father, a first serious relationship that ended in heartbreak, and bad financial decisions — circumstances that led him to stare down the abyss. Runs 60 minutes; suitable for audiences aged 18 and over. Tickets are £7. Contains distressing themes and strong language.
Why see this show?
A dark comedy that uses self-examination as its engine — Popov narrating the idiotic and painful circumstances that brought him to the edge. Sixty minutes of honest, inexpensive theatre at Just the Spare Room for £7.
Thursday 31 July - Sunday 24 August 2025
All performances at 22:25
24 performances
60 minutes
1 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025
£7
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The show runs for 60 minutes.
Where is it performed?
At Just the Spare Room, as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
What does a ticket cost?
Tickets are £7.
Is there an age restriction?
The show is for audiences aged 18 and over.
Are there content warnings?
Yes — the show contains distressing or potentially triggering themes and strong language/swearing.
What is the show about?
Aleksandr Popov talks to his 'self', recounting the insecurities, prejudices and events that led him to his lowest point — including inability to grieve for his father, a heartbreaking first relationship and bad financial decisions.
About This Comedy Show
Why I Stayed...? A Gothic Review of Life? is a comedy performance at Just the Spare 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.
Expect an evening of laughter with professional comedians delivering their best material. Most comedy shows at Edinburgh run for 50-60 minutes, perfect for fitting multiple shows into your day.
Venue: Just the Spare Room
Just the Spare 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
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early for the best seats
- •Front row seats may involve audience interaction
- •Check content warnings for adult material
- •Many venues have a bar for pre-show drinks
Booking Information
Ticket Prices: From £7
Age Guidance: 18+
Content Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Strong language/swearing
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.Why I Stayed...? A Gothic Review of Life? represents the comedy excellence that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.
Looking for more comedy shows at Edinburgh Festival 2025?
Browse all Comedy shows →Similar Events
Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API
