The Second Best School Shooting
Jessica Green Harrison / Matthew Lillard • Professional company
The Second Best School Shooting
By Jessica Green Harrison / Matthew Lillard • Professional company
Book NowAbout the show
The Second Best School Shooting is a dark comedy at Baby Grand, written by former US public school teacher Alice Stanley Jr and directed by Riley Rose Critchlow. The play follows two best friends struggling to process surviving a school shooting overshadowed by a worse one on the same day. Developed with hundreds of students, teachers and survivors, it explores America's traumatised yet darkly humorous youth in response to gun violence. The show is 60 minutes and suitable for ages 14 and over. Tickets from £9.
Why see this show?
A dark comedy that was built with real survivors and addresses American gun violence through the kind of gallows humour that helps people actually cope. Uncomfortable, necessary, and — by its own account — somehow hilarious.
Wednesday 5 - Sunday 30 August 2026
All performances at 12:45
23 performances
60 minutes
2 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026
£9
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the show run?
The show runs for 60 minutes.
Where is it performed?
At Baby Grand.
What is the age guidance?
The show is suitable for ages 14 and over.
What does a ticket cost?
Tickets start from £9. See the booking link on this page for current ticket prices.
Are there any content warnings?
Yes — the show contains distressing and potentially triggering themes, strong language and swearing. It includes conversations about gun violence and the sound of gunshots. No gun violence is depicted onstage.
Who wrote and directed the show?
The show was written by former US public school teacher Alice Stanley Jr and directed by Riley Rose Critchlow.
About This Theatre Production
The Second Best School Shooting is a theatre performance at Baby Grand 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.
Experience compelling storytelling brought to life by talented performers. Theatre at Edinburgh ranges from intimate black box productions to grand stage spectacles.
Venue: Baby Grand
Baby Grand 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 for trigger warnings if sensitive to certain topics
- •Most Fringe theatre runs without interval
- •Latecomers may not be admitted
- •Consider matinee performances for a relaxed experience
Booking Information
Ticket Prices: £9 - £15
Age Guidance: 14+
Content Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Strong language/swearing, More information This production includes conversations about gun violence and the sound of gunshots. No gun violence is depicted onstage.
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.The Second Best School Shooting represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.
Looking for more theatre shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?
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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API
