Edinburgh Fringe 2026
Low Down
Other is about showing that although much divides us in the human race we have a lot in common too. We are all other in some unique, special way, so let’s celebrate that. A two-person stand-up comedy show on the Free Fringe circuit in an accessible venue.
Review
Rohan and Mani might appear to have a lot in common to the average outside eye – both men, both brown, both from communities that face scrutiny in these days of England and St George fevered flag waving. But dig a little deeper and you will find there is much that divides them. Starting with the disputed territory of Kashmir and moving onto much more important things like spreadsheet nerdery and football v. cricket, this is a gentle hour of stand-up, first from Rohan Ashar and then Mani Ahmed. You may have been lucky enough to see them on the London comedy circuit where they have honed their craft.
As with all good stand-up it is personal and observational, exploring childhoods where they discovered how they were viewed differently and learning to fit in as best they could. And if you think you know how they might have been ‘othered’ you will be surprised! The rules of reviewing etiquette forbid me from revealing any of their material but trust me, there are
some solid zingers in there. The message from Other – and why Rohan and Mani make such a strong pairing – is that we are all uniquely different and none of us should feel bad about how we are ‘other’. A moral and funny show, what more could you want? To add to the package in this lunchtime show the venue on Edinburgh’s Cowgate is a friendly, airy bar that does food and is completely accessible to wheelchair users. Good acoustics in the cosy air conditioned room also help.
After the jokes comes the quiz. Sadly no actual prize for first place on offer (that is a thought guys, even on a stretched Fringe budget) but you do get kudos points if you are more other than anyone else in the room. Don’t worry, there is no obligation to participate, it’s not that sort of comedy show where the audience’s discomfort is part of the joke. Rohan and Mani are gentle interrogators but the answers they coax out of us are revealing as well as funny.
The show could benefit from extra oomph with delivery and leaning further into the quizmasters’ role. The confidence to roast each other more (punching sideways) could underline how we as a society are quick to make unfair assumptions.
Other is part of the Free Fringe so pay what you can but bookable in advance which is probably advisable to guarantee a seat. They are only here until 18th August so go while you can.
