The Edinburgh Comedy Award 2026 shortlist has been announced, with five whimsical acts in the running for the prestigious prize. The list was revealed on Wednesday, ahead of the winner being named at a ceremony later this month.
The five nominees
The nominees are: comedian and actor Sarah Millican for her show Bobby Dazzler; the double act of Ben Partridge and Henry Paker for The Bunker; rising star Celya AB for Kwisatz Haderach; improvisational trio Paul F. Taylor, Rachel Parris and Andrew Ryan for Showstopper! The Improvised Musical; and the absurdist duo of Lola and Sophie for Totally Normal.
All five shows have been performed throughout the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which runs until the end of August. The award, previously known as the Edinburgh Comedy Award, is one of the most coveted honours in British comedy.
Judging and ceremony
The winner will be chosen by a panel of judges, who have been attending performances across the festival. The ceremony will take place on 28 August at the Pleasance Theatre in Edinburgh.
Last year’s award went to Jordan Gray for her show Bird. The shortlist for 2026 has been described as “whimsical” by festival organisers, with a mix of established names and newer talent.
