Serious Nonsense

Serious Nonsense

Ben Macpherson / PBH's Free FringeProfessional company

60 minutesDownstairs Room
Funny, horrible and just a bit naughty, Ben Macpherson brings the perfect gateway to your Fringe afternoon back to Edinburgh, for its fourth year. Serious Nonsense is a free poetry show for all ages, packed with energetic rhymes, masterful storytelling and laugh-out-loud moments. Grab a seat and prepare to meet the awful adults, beastly brats and curious creatures from this verbal tour de force. If you liked Roald Dahl or Spike Milligan growing up, then this is the show for you. 'Full of humour and drive' (Michael Rosen). 'Ben Macpherson is a joy' (Caroline Bird).

About the show

Ben Macpherson brings his free poetry show Serious Nonsense back to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe for its fourth year at Downstairs Room. Described as funny, horrible and just a bit naughty, the show is packed with energetic rhymes, masterful storytelling and laugh-out-loud moments. Audiences are invited to meet awful adults, beastly brats and curious creatures in what the listing describes as a verbal tour de force. The show is aimed at all ages from 8 and up and involves audience participation. Entry is free.

Why see this show?

Irreverent, energetic poetry for everyone from eight to eighty — Ben Macpherson's returning show is the kind of guaranteed good time that earns its 'fourth year' badge.

Event Details

Saturday 8 - Sunday 30 August 2026

All performances at 12:00

20 performances

60 minutes

1 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Ticket Price

Free

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

Where is the show?

The show takes place at Downstairs Room as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

How much do tickets cost?

This is a free event.

What is the age guidance?

The show is suitable for ages 8 and over.

Does the audience get involved?

Yes — the show involves audience participation.

What kind of show is it?

It is a free poetry show for all ages, featuring energetic rhymes, storytelling and comedic characters.

About This Family Show

Serious Nonsense is a children's shows performance at Downstairs 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.

Entertainment designed to delight audiences of all ages. These shows balance engagement for children with humor that adults will appreciate.

Venue: Downstairs Room

Downstairs 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

  • Check age recommendations before booking
  • Shorter run times suit younger attention spans
  • Buggy parking usually available
  • Interactive elements keep children engaged

Booking Information

Ticket Prices: From £null

Age Guidance: 8+

Content Warnings: Audience participation

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.Serious Nonsense represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

Looking for more children's shows shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?

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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API