ShakeItUp: The Improvised Shakespeare Show

ShakeItUp: The Improvised Shakespeare Show

ShakeItUp Theatre in association with Benjamin AlboroughProfessional company

60 minutesWine Bar
Shakespeare hasn't written anything new for an age, so we thought we would give him a hand... Using his language, your audience suggestions and our overactive imaginations, we create a brand new Shakespeare play live on stage, complete with big laughs, high drama, and plenty of Bard-based Bedlam! 'Quick-witted, inexhaustible and absolutely hysterical' ***** (LondonTheatreReviews.co.uk). 'Brilliantly bonkers! One of the best improvised shows at the Fringe' ***** (WestEndBestFriend.co.uk). 'Masters of improv, brilliant fun for all' ***** (TheatreScotland.co.uk). 'This is a must see' ***** (AYoungishPerspective.co.uk).

About the show

ShakeItUp Theatre, in association with Benjamin Alborough, performs a brand new Shakespeare play every night at Wine Bar over 60 minutes. Using Shakespeare's language, audience suggestions and the company's imaginations, each performance is a completely original work created live on stage — complete with big laughs, high drama and Bard-based bedlam. No two shows are alike, and audiences are invited to shape the story through their suggestions.

Why see this show?

Every performance is unique, built live from your suggestions and Shakespeare's own words. A guaranteed night of surprises — part comedy improv, part Elizabethan drama, wholly entertaining.

Event Details

Friday 7 - Monday 31 August 2026

All performances at 12:35

25 performances

60 minutes

14 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Ticket Price

£9

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

The show runs for 60 minutes.

Where is it performed?

At Wine Bar as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

What is the age guidance?

The show is suitable for audiences aged 12 and over.

Is there audience participation?

Yes — audience suggestions are used to shape the Shakespeare play created live on stage each night.

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets are £9. See the booking link on this page for current ticket prices.

What kind of show is this?

It is an improvised comedy theatre show in which a completely new Shakespeare play is created live each night using Shakespeare's language and audience suggestions.

About This Comedy Show

ShakeItUp: The Improvised Shakespeare Show is a comedy performance at Wine Bar 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: Wine Bar

Wine Bar 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 - £13

Age Guidance: 12+

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.ShakeItUp: The Improvised Shakespeare Show 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