Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me but Banjos Saved My Life

Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me but Banjos Saved My Life

Keith AlessiSemi-professional company

70 minutesTechCube 0
'Storytelling at its best!' (Playbill.com). Sold-out runs in 2023, 2024 and 2025. This highly awarded, internationally touring, inspirational true story is about overcoming obstacles, pursuing passions and the healing power of the arts, and is told with warmth, humour and banjo music! Through donations, including 100% of all artist fees, the show has raised over $1.2 million dollars (CAD) as of December 2025 for various charities, including cancer organisations, music programmes, community groups and artist funding and development. All proceeds from this Edinburgh Fringe run will benefit Summerhall Arts.

About Keith Alessi

Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me but Banjos Saved My Life is an inspirational true story told by Keith Alessi with warmth, humour and live banjo music. The show explores overcoming obstacles, pursuing passions and the healing power of the arts. Through donations — including all artist fees — the show has raised over one-point-two million Canadian dollars for various charities, including cancer organisations, music programmes, community groups and artist funding and development. All proceeds from this Edinburgh Fringe run will benefit Summerhall Arts. Audiences are advised the show discusses cancer.

Why see this show?

A true story told with genuine heart, live banjo music, and a real charitable purpose. This is feel-good storytelling that earns its warmth — all Edinburgh Fringe proceeds go directly to Summerhall Arts, making attending an act of giving as well as enjoying.

Event Details

Thursday 6 - Monday 31 August 2026

All performances at 11:40

24 performances

70 minutes

1 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Ticket Price

£10

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the show?

The show runs for 70 minutes.

Where is it performed?

The show is performed at TechCube 0 as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

What is the age guidance?

The show is suitable for audiences aged 12 and over.

Are there any content warnings?

Yes — the show contains distressing or potentially triggering themes. It includes discussions of cancer.

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets are £10.

Does the show support any charities?

Yes — all proceeds from this Edinburgh Fringe run will benefit Summerhall Arts. The show has also raised funds for cancer organisations, music programmes, community groups and artist funding and development through donations and artist fees.

About This Theatre Production

Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me but Banjos Saved My Life is a theatre performance at TechCube 0 during Edinburgh Festival 2026. Running for 70 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: TechCube 0

TechCube 0 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: £10 - £17

Age Guidance: 12+

Content Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, More information Discussions of cancer.

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.Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me but Banjos Saved My Life 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