John Achkar: His country is collapsing. He's having a baby. So obviously, this is the right year for a Lebanese comedian you've never heard of to try English stand-up for the first time.

John Achkar: His country is collapsing. He's having a baby. So obviously, this is the right year for a Lebanese comedian you've never heard of to try English stand-up for the first time.

John AchkarProfessional company

60 minutesJust The Spare Room
Fresh off a sold-out Arabic tour across 85 cities, John has decided, for reasons he's still figuring out, that now is the time to try stand-up in his third language. He hasn't checked if Edinburgh is ready. He hasn't checked if his vocabulary is ready. But somewhere in the chaos, he's betting on one simple theory: we're all carrying the same stories, just told in different languages.

About John Achkar

John Achkar is a Lebanese comedian performing English stand-up for the first time at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, at Just The Spare Room. Framing the show around his country collapsing and his partner expecting a baby, he brings a comedian's curiosity to performing in his third language. The 60-minute show is priced at £5 and is suitable for audiences aged 16 and over. His central bet is that everyone is carrying the same stories, just told in different languages.

Why see this show?

A genuinely distinctive Fringe debut — a Lebanese comedian working in his third language, betting that shared human stories cross every linguistic border. Honest, curious, and affordable at £5.

Event Details

Thursday 6 - Sunday 30 August 2026

All performances at 15:40

24 performances

60 minutes

1 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Ticket Price

£5 (2.50)

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets start at £5, with a concession rate of £2.50.

Where does the show take place?

The show is at Just The Spare Room, as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Is there an age restriction?

The show is recommended for audiences aged 16 and over.

What is the show about?

John Achkar performs English stand-up for the first time, exploring his experience as a Lebanese comedian doing stand-up in his third language, amid personal and national upheaval.

Are there any content warnings?

No content warnings are listed for this event.

About This Comedy Show

John Achkar: His country is collapsing. He's having a baby. So obviously, this is the right year for a Lebanese comedian you've never heard of to try English stand-up for the first time. is a comedy performance at Just The Spare Room 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: 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: £5 - £10

Age Guidance: 16+

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.John Achkar: His country is collapsing. He's having a baby. So obviously, this is the right year for a Lebanese comedian you've never heard of to try English stand-up for the first time. represents the comedy excellence that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

Looking for more comedy shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API