EdFringe Talk: Showstopper! The Improvised Musical

Posted in *EdFestivals 2026, *Written Interviews by

“This will be my 14th consecutive year going to Ed Fringe. It’s now labelled simply in my diary as “Ed,” which I like because it does kind of feel like an old friend.”

WHO: Ali James

WHAT: “The Olivier Award-winning West End smash hit and Fringe favourite is back! The Showstoppers improvise a hilarious new musical every show, totally inspired by audience suggestions, in ‘the funniest improv on the Fringe’ (BroadwayBaby.com). The mind-blowing, must-see phenomenon where it’s opening night of the hottest musical in town… every night! With over 1,500 hilarious made-up musicals to their name, The Showstoppers never perform the same show twice. ‘So polished, it defies belief’ ***** (Telegraph). ‘A consistent audience favorite for a reason.’ ***** (Playbill). ‘Achingly funny… worth seeing again and again.’ ***** (Time Out).”

WHERE: Grand at Pleasance Courtyard (Venue 33) 

WHEN: 17:20 (70 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

No, this will be my 14th consecutive year going to Ed Fringe. It’s now labelled simply in my diary as “Ed,” which I like because it does kind of feel like an old friend.

In fact, Ed is a great pal; I’ve had some of the best experiences of my career and indeed life directing, performing, spectating and, yes, partying over the years with Ed. The sheer variety of Ed’s interests really keeps me guessing and broadening my horizons as to what I enjoy. From Peter Pan inspired club nights where we refused to grow up to masked theatre shows exploring thought provoking themes like mental health as we age, the programme is FULL.

At the same time, I know what I’m in for and nowadays know when me and Ed need our downtime. Did you know there is a little garden down the ramp next to the Pleasance Grand entrance? Hardly anyone knows about it and Ed and I often enjoy an iced tea and plan your next exploit there with the all encompassing Fringe Guide. Or maybe grab yourself a healthy smoothie at Hula on the Grass Market and catch up on the latest hot goss (either from reviews or word of mouth). Carving out these little pockets of time together is essential for maximum friendship benefit.

Like all great friends, Ed listens well. When things aren’t as good as they could be the Ed Fringe Society and board members respond, having made it their year round commitment to deliver a festival better than the last every time. And their recommendations (eg 2-4-1 deals and mixed bill shows like Pick of the Fringe) are more often than not bang on, so do take their advice to heart.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2025 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

I’m currently learning to boundary my time more effectively (challenging as a freelance director and performer!) so I can continue to give the absolute best of me to each of my respective projects (three of which will be part of Ed Fringe this year). Fitness, rest and relaxation have to be part of my everyday routine now. I try to take care of my body so I can keep moving dynamically in Showstopper and am constantly thrilled by our artistic developments as a company. Ed’s audiences are very loyal and have helped Showstopper galvanise and grow annually for the last 17 years, for which I’m very grateful.

Tell us about your show.

Showstopper is a 70 minute improvised West End/ Broadway musical. The concept is simple; a theatre writer’s producer calls and asks for a new musical. Out of ideas, they turn to their audience for inspiration. We, the seven strong cast and three strong band spontaneously bring to life the imagined story, choreography and songs celebrating the audiences brilliant suggestions. Produced by Suzanna Rosenthal, Showstopper has been running since its porta cabin inception of 2008 inspired by the work of British theatre director Ken Campbell. We tour the UK year round and occasionally have stints abroad too. We’ll be back in the autumn in lots of UK cities and continuing our London West End residency at the stunning Cambridge Theatre.

What should your audience see at the festivals after they’ve seen your show?

I will always suggest Austentatious! (An improvised Jane Austen novel that makes me laugh so hard I sometimes cry) and The Bob Ross Effect (also an SRP show) from the mind and heart of legendary Fringe performer Sarah Louise Young where you get to (if you’d like) draw along with Sarah and explore how art can help us all.

So from me and Ed, join us this August for a summer friendship fest like no other!

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