Doughboys

Doughboys

Drunk Jester PlayersSemi-professional company

Google Drunk Jester Players
60 minutesThistle Theatre
With America entering the Great War, Private Sandes has finally arrived at the Western Front with just one problem. A problem that must be kept secret from the bumbling Sergeant... Sandes is a woman. Disguised as an American Doughboy, Sandes isn’t the only drag king in the trench. Bianconi, a desperate bachelorette, has come to No Man’s Land to land... a man. And Furse, an orphan, is looking for her MIA brother. With battle looming and the Sergeant’s second-in-command threatening to reveal them, the women have just hours to find love, family and themselves before all hell breaks loose.

About the show

Drunk Jester Players present a farcical LGBTQ+ theatre piece set on the Western Front. Private Sandes arrives as an American Doughboy with a secret: she is a woman. She is not the only one — Bianconi, a desperate bachelorette, has come to No Man's Land searching for a husband, and Furse, an orphan, is looking for her missing brother. With a bumbling Sergeant, a threatening second-in-command, and battle looming, the women have just hours to find love, family and themselves before all hell breaks loose.

Why see this show?

A farce with warmth and stakes — three women disguised on the Western Front, each chasing something different. Doughboys mixes LGBTQ+ themes with physical comedy and genuine heart, making for an entertaining and surprisingly moving hour.

Tickets

£8 (6)

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When

Friday 7 - Saturday 22 August 2026

All performances at 18:25

15 performances

Duration

60 mins

Cast

5 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Venue
Thistle Theatre

322 Lawnmarket

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Doughboys about?

A farce set on the Western Front during the Great War, following three women disguised as American Doughboys who are searching for love, family, and identity before battle begins.

How long does the show run?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

How much are tickets?

Tickets start from £8, with a concession rate of £6.

Is there an age restriction?

The show is suitable for audiences aged 14 and over.

Where is it performed?

The show takes place at Thistle Theatre.

Are there any content warnings?

The show contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, scenes of a sexual nature, and includes the use of prop firearms.

About This Theatre Production

Doughboys is a theatre performance at Thistle Theatre 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: Thistle Theatre

Thistle Theatre 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: £8 - £16

Age Guidance: 14+

Content Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Scenes of a sexual nature, More information Includes the use of prop firearms.

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.Doughboys represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

Looking for more theatre shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API