About Michael R Speciàle
Bottoming for Jesus is a solo show by Michael R Speciale combining stand-up, cabaret, sermon and TED Talk. At fifteen, Speciale converted himself to Mormonism — no missionaries required — using belief as a container for what he could not face as a closeted gay teenager in the Pacific Northwest. The show traces what happened when that system failed. Performing at the Studio venue, it features musical numbers, radical oversharing, whiteboard theology and Judy Garland. The European Premiere of this piece, it runs 60 minutes and is for audiences aged 18 and above.
Why see this show?
A queer coming-of-age story delivered as church, comedy and confession. Speciale's blend of music, theology and oversharing promises something genuinely unlike the usual Fringe fare — personal, funny and honest about spectacular failure.
Friday 7 - Sunday 30 August 2026
All performances at 22:40
23 performances
60 minutes
2 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026
£10
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The show runs for 60 minutes.
What is the age guidance?
The show is for audiences aged 18 and above.
Are there any content warnings?
Yes — the show includes audience participation, distressing or potentially triggering themes, scenes of a sexual nature, strong language and swearing, one loud noise, and explicit discussions of sexuality and religious themes throughout.
How much do tickets cost?
Tickets start at £10. See the booking link on this page for current ticket prices.
Where is the show performed?
The show is performed at Studio as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
What kind of show is it?
It is described as part stand-up, part cabaret, part sermon, part TED Talk — a queer theatre piece featuring musical numbers, whiteboard theology and audience participation.
About This Theatre Production
Bottoming for Jesus is a theatre performance at Studio during Edinburgh Festival 2026. 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: Studio
Studio 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 - £14.5
Age Guidance: 18+
Content Warnings: Audience participation, Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Scenes of a sexual nature, Strong language/swearing, More information One loud noise. Explicit discussions of sexuality and religious themes throughout.
Book early to avoid disappointment. Popular shows sell out quickly during Edinburgh Festival.
Part of Edinburgh Festival 2026
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.Bottoming for Jesus represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.
Looking for more theatre shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?
Browse all Theatre shows →Similar Events
Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API
