About ELI MATTHEWSON
Eli Matthewson is a stand-up comedian who describes himself as the first New Zealander to move to London, having applied for his youth visa in the last possible week he was eligible. His show Blood Bender takes the audience through his life story — from a brief stint in ballet to performing at Dining In The Dark — building to an honest and outrageous account of his first visit to a gay sauna. The show runs for 60 minutes at The Crate and is suitable for audiences aged 14 and over.
Why see this show?
A candid, self-deprecating show from a comedian who wears every embarrassing chapter of his life as a badge of honour. Warm, funny, and genuinely personal, Blood Bender rewards anyone who enjoys storytelling-driven stand-up with a confessional edge.
Wednesday 5 - Sunday 30 August 2026
All performances at 17:30
25 performances
60 minutes
1 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026
£9
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The show runs for 60 minutes.
Where does it take place?
Eli Matthewson: Blood Bender is performed at The Crate as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
What is the age guidance?
The show is suitable for audiences aged 14 and over.
What does a ticket cost?
Tickets start from £9. See the booking link on this page for current ticket prices.
What kind of show is this?
It is a stand-up comedy show in which Eli Matthewson shares personal stories from his life, including his ballet career and his move to London.
About This Comedy Show
Eli Matthewson: Blood Bender is a comedy performance at The Crate 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.
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: The Crate
The Crate 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: £9 - £15
Age Guidance: 14+
Content Warnings: None
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.Eli Matthewson: Blood Bender represents the comedy excellence that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.
Looking for more comedy shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?
Browse all Comedy shows →Similar Events
Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API
