Best of the Fest direct from the Fringe in Edinburgh

The world’s biggest arts festival has kicked off again in Edinburgh. I’ve been to more shows than I can mention in the past week, but these are the best of the bunch.

Sandi Toksvig is playing My Valentine at Pleasance Courtyard. This comedian never fails to have your mascara running down your cheeks. Her solo show features great observational stand-up, stories and fascinating facts. Last show today at 4pm.

Rich Hall is one of the driest, funniest comedians on the circuit. This year he has two shows Rich Hall’s Hoedown (until August 25, 11pm, in Assembly George Square) and Rich Hall (until August 25, 9.30pm, same venue). The former is a late night comedy/music extravaganza where Hall plays with the audience, making up songs about them on the spot with his usual acerbic wit. His stand-up routine is the usual deadpan, side-splitting humour.

Hannah Gadsby: Happiness Is A Bedside Table plays at Assembly Roxy (until August 25, 4.30pm). Self-deprecating to an excruciating degree, Hannah has fresh and poignant material drawing on the loathing of her body, her depression and “the lowest point in her life (thus far)”. Eye-watering stuff.

TV favourite Josh Widdicombe is at Assembly George Square (until August 15 at 9pm). To be able to fill a theatre with 400 people and keep them laughing like drains for an hour without resorting to foul language every few minutes is a skill, but this lad has it. He’s original and witty, and there’s something for all ages in his one-man show.

Jenny Eclair: Eclairious plays at the Gilded Balloon till August 17 (at 7.30pm). You’ll know her from TV but stand-up is what I think she does best (despite the fact that, according to her, it gives her varicose veins). Not for the lily-livered and definitely not children but if you like your humour dry and cruel, this is the show for you.