Can’t make it to Edinburgh Fringe this year? The Art House has a long and proud history of hosting scratch shows and previews, giving you a chance to experience some of the shows headed for the Scottish Capital, without having to leave the city (or your sofa, if you choose to watch online).

This year we’re delighted to welcome back two Art House favourites for an evening of top notch one-person shows.

Lexi Wolfe – After Shakespeare

What happens to Shakespeare’s best-loved heroes and most reviled villains after the curtain falls? Come and join a host of familiar Shakespearean characters as they reflect back on their lives: including Lady Macbeth, Portia, Hamlet and King Hal (Henry V). Lexi Wolfe weaves together Shakespeare’s words, historical research, and her own dramatic spark, as she transforms into four distinct characters, to follow their onward journeys. Winner of Best Actress, Buxton Fringe 2021. ‘Lexi Wolfe is a formidable actor’ (Buxton Fringe).

Here’s a little preview:

Paul Richards – Is this the End of Edward J Payne?

His father died at 45. His grandfather died at 45. His great grandfather died at 45. His great-great grandfather died at 45, and so on, for as many generations on record. We meet Edward on his 45th birthday but he is in no mood to celebrate. A fast, comedic romp, we follow our panicky hero through 12 chaotic months as he simply attempts to stay alive and break the family curse. Or, is this really the end of Edward J. Payne? Written and performed by award-winning playwright Paul Richards.

This is a new show by Paul, watch this little preview of him in ‘Sketchbook’