John Robertson's The Dark Room

John Robertson's The Dark Room

Lee Martin for Gag ReflexProfessional company

Google Lee Martin for Gag Reflex
60 minutesDoonstairs
Come play the legendary Fringe live-action videogame! Win money or ya die! New deathtraps for 2026! The Dark Room fuses improv, gaming and stand-up into the Fringe's most deranged gameshow! Sold out 2019-2025. Best-reviewed comedy show of Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025 (Comedy.co.uk). 'Hilarious' (Independent). 'Rocky Horror for nerds... I howled' **** (Telegraph). 'Not to be missed' (Guardian). Viral on TikTok and Instagram, as seen at Glastonbury, Download, PAX, MCM Comic Con and on national UK tour. Winner: Legends of Lockdown Chortle Award. Nominated: Best International Act, NZ International Comedy Festival 2025. Find out more: TheJohnRobertson.com.

About Lee Martin for Gag Reflex

John Robertson's The Dark Room is a live-action videogame fused from improv, gaming and stand-up, hosted by John Robertson and presented by Lee Martin for Gag Reflex at the Doonstairs venue. Audiences attempt to navigate a deranged gameshow full of deathtraps, with the chance to win money — or face elimination. New deathtraps are introduced for 2026. The show runs for 60 minutes and is suitable for those aged 16 and over. It involves audience participation, strong language and flashing lights.

Why see this show?

Part game show, part stand-up, part audience torture — The Dark Room puts you in the hot seat with real stakes and absurd consequences. An Edinburgh cult event that continues to evolve with new traps each year.

Tickets

£9.50

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When

Wednesday 5 - Sunday 30 August 2026

22:00, 23:30

28 performances

Duration

60 mins

Cast

1 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Venue
Doonstairs

3 Chambers St

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

Where is it performed?

At the Doonstairs venue.

What is the ticket price?

Tickets from £9.50.

What is the age guidance?

This show is suitable for those aged 16 and over.

Does the audience take part?

Yes, audience participation is central to the experience.

Are there any warnings?

The show contains strong language and swearing, audience participation, and flashing lights.

About This Comedy Show

John Robertson's The Dark Room is a comedy performance at Doonstairs 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: Doonstairs

Doonstairs 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: £9.5 - £15.5

Age Guidance: 16+

Content Warnings: Audience participation, Strong language/swearing, More information Flashing lights

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 Robertson's The Dark Room 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