Traumedy: A Guide To Being A Fabulous Homeless Addict
Comedy (stand-up, storytelling)
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Venue 167PBH's Free Fringe @ Kafe Kweer - Downstairs Room
- 15:45
- Aug 25
- 55 minutes
- Country: Spain
- Group: Iain Anderson / PBH's Free Fringe
- Warnings and additional info: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Strong language/swearing
- Babes in arms policy: Babies are not allowed in the venue
- Policy applies to: Children under 2 years
Description
Traumedy: A Guide To Being A Fabulous Homeless Addict is the true story of my life from addiction to sobriety. From being young and dumb on the Glasgow gay scene, through living in a park in Barcelona to being committed to a psych ward and then landing in recovery. A tragic yet hilarious true story about overcoming my demons and finding the real meaning of what it takes to be happy.Please note that while all media gallery content is provided by verified members of the event, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society does not review or approve this content before it is posted. Reports of inappropriate content or copyright infringement can be directed to [email protected].
General venue access
- Accessible entry: Information not supplied
- Stairs: Information not supplied
Wheelchair access type: Not fully wheelchair accessible
Each venue can contain several space with different accessibly information. Visit the venue page for full venue accessibility info
How and when to make an access booking
- Phone: +44 (0)131 226 0002
- Email: [email protected]
- Textphone: +44 (0)7860 018 299
- Find out more about access at the Fringe.
Our access tickets service is available to anyone who:
- Would like to book specific accessibility services, e.g. a hearing loop, audio description headsets, captioning units, seating in relation to the location of the BSL interpreter
- Requires extra assistance when at a venue
- Has specific seating requirements
- Is a wheelchair user
- Requires a complimentary personal assistant ticket to attend a performance
Nikol Kollars 4 days ago
Iain is a true treasure. He made us feel welcome and took us on a journey of despair, resilience and bravery all the while making us laugh. His ability to tell a story of a dire situation with wit and humour is a special trait. We laughed, we cried, we will definitely see him again!
June Y 15 days ago
Something different in an intimate setting. A great storyteller that keeps the audience engaged... like someone cool telling you interesting stories at a bar - an hour flew by. Randomly found this when I decided to browse for shows from the last page instead of from the first like usual since it’s all alphabetical. In addition to seeing some of the bigger productions, I think this is kind of the point of the Fringe. For the first couple of minutes I was genuinely confused why someone with a show listed under the country “Spain” sounded so Scottish lol
Maggi Gotobed 17 days ago
**A Masterclass in Humor and Healing**
Attending was an experience like no other. I've known Iain for a while and It's not often that you come across a comedy show that dives headfirst into the raw and often taboo topics of addiction and trauma—and does so with such grace, intelligence, and laugh-out-loud humor.
This show is a brave exploration of the human condition, brilliantly intertwining the darkness of life’s struggles with the lightness of comedy.
The genius of Iain lies in his ability to make us laugh while simultaneously challenging us to confront the very issues we often shy away from.
Each joke is a double-edged sword: it cuts through the heaviness of addiction and trauma, yet it's delivered with such finesse that you can't help but laugh—and think deeply—at the same time.
What makes this show stand out is its authenticity. Iain doesn't shy away from sharing personal stories and experiences, which creates an intimate atmosphere that resonates with anyone who has faced similar challenges.
The show is as much about healing as it is about humor. There are moments of sheer hilarity, followed by poignant reflections that hit you right in the heart. The balance is impeccable. Iain is more than just a comedy show.. it’s a therapeutic experience. It reminds us that humor can be a powerful tool for coping, understanding, and ultimately, overcoming the darker parts of life.
This show is a must-see for anyone who appreciates comedy with depth, courage, and purpose.
Don't miss it!!♥️ Big Luv!!♥️
Rebecca del Rio M 18 days ago
Disclaimer: we saw Iain twice in Barcelona so we knew what to expect. However, this time, he exceeded my already-high expectations.
This show is a must-see. The venue is super-small for such a big talent, but Iain deftly deals with that, too. An example: his show is stand-up but the ceiling is too low for him to stand and he even makes this an occasion for clever observation.
Iain has repurposed his rapid-fire delivery perfectly to this very-much a traumedy, telling of deadly serious, tragic events . He delivers his stories in such a way that one can laugh out loud despite feeling the full weight of a difficult life. You must see this show!
Oliver Bussell 18 days ago
Iain Anderson is a force of nature, this stunning true story has to be heard to be believed. It will move you to tears and yet Iain is so effortlessly hilarious that you won’t stop laughing the whole way through. The intimate venue is perfect for losing yourself in this incredible story. Go see it
T Latimores 19 days ago
Brilliant, unique, hilarious, heartwarming. Can I think of more adjectives to describe how much you must see this?!?! Thanks for sharing your world, it’s incredibly brave shows like this that make Fringe so special. Thank you
Kelly Church 21 days ago
If you’re looking for a show that’s as hysterical as it is heartwarming then look no further! Iain is not only a gifted comic but a fantastic storyteller and his journey through addiction to active recovery with fantastic anecdotes of those friends and foes along the way is gripping. This is a must see, so please don’t let the venue location get in your way! Iain, excellent job- can’t wait to see more of your shows in the future :)
Maaike Harings 22 days ago
Last night, I had the privilege of attending a comedy show that was more than just a series of punchlines; it was a heartfelt journey through addiction, recovery, and resilience. The show is an absolute gem, tucked away a bit out of the city center, but well worth the extra travel.
From the moment Iain stepped onto the stage, it was clear this wasn’t going to be your typical comedy routine. With a perfect blend of humor and vulnerability, he shared his personal story of addiction and recovery, weaving together moments of intense honesty with side-splitting humor. The show was not only hilarious but also incredibly heartwarming, as he turned what could have been a heavy topic into something that resonated deeply with every member of the audience.
Through laughter, Iain reminded us of the importance of self-awareness, the value of asking for help, and the beauty of second chances. Each joke was layered with meaning, making the audience reflect as much as they laughed.
The intimate setting allowed for a more personal connection with Iain, making it feel as though he was sharing his story directly with each of us.
If you’re looking for a comedy show that offers more than just laughs—one that’s heartwarming, thought-provoking, and genuinely uplifting—then Iain’s show is a must-see. Don’t let the location deter you; the experience is more than worth the trip.
Dan McBride 22 days ago
The show is an incredibly heartfelt, tearjerking, yet hilarious story of someone turning their life around. I would happily go and see the show a second time, it really left an impression on me!
Maggie MacInnes 22 days ago
Lovely, intimate venue - perfect for this show. A rollercoaster of emotions from a comic genius but with a poignant message that packed a punch. Don’t miss it.
Michelle Ahern 25 days ago
Raw, real talent, an incredible story to tell and all done in a beautifully accessible and enjoyable way. I felt connected to the story and the performer and could have listened to him for another hour :) Really nice to have such a relaxed environment away from the crowds for this one too!
Wout 26 days ago
Touching, tearful, but also hilarious and heartwarming. A lot of beautiful mixed feelings and life lessons that will stay with you for a long time.
Steven T 26 days ago
My favourite show of the fringe, in a chilled venue. I laughed out loud more than at any other show, and had tears in my eyes at a few points too, but not for long because another laugh came along. Iain’s story is captivating because it careers from outrageous to courageous and back again, a perfectly balanced storytelling that’s simultaneously hilarious and uplifting. You need to see this show, it’s worth the walk that can be rewarded with a cake and a can from the cafe upstairs.
Amanda Carrington 27 days ago
A Masterful Blend of Humour.
Iain was nothing short of fantastic, effortlessly blending humour and emotion in a way that had us both snort laughing and crying. His monologue was a perfect example of the title "Traumedy" a lot of comedy with just the right sprinkle of trauma.
He took us on a journey through his life story, sharing moments that were both deeply relatable and unexpectedly hilarious. His ability to find humour in life’s darker moments was truly remarkable, and his delivery was spot on. We laughed out loud, we connected with his story, and yes, we're still bitching about Carol!
Thank you for sharing your story with us, and for reminding us that even in the face of adversity, there’s always room for a good laugh. This performance was a brilliant example of how comedy can heal and unite us all. Highly recommended!
Caroline Rollitt 27 days ago
Kafe Kweer is about a 15 min walk out of the city centre . It’s worth the walk . It is like a therapy session where you laugh and cry and laugh again .
Loved Iain’s show an honest account of hitting rock bottom and surviving .
Sam Basing 31 days ago
What a show! Comedy combined with a poignant message about life as an addict. A truly moving account told by a hilarious and humble man. It’s a must to see at this years fringe.
Gigi 32 days ago
Excellent show
Willow Star 34 days ago
This show strikes the balance between true and emotional while also being knee-slapping funny. Every time I got tears in my eyes —boom another joke. Impeccable storytelling - he almost never said “umm” or “like” because he didn’t skip a beat. No words were wasted - every bit has your full attention.
Nadia Helal 34 days ago
This show is a little out of Edinburgh’s city centre, but it is definitely worth the detour. Iain Anderson’s unique show “Traumedy: A Guide to being a Fabulous Homeless Addict” dives headfirst into very personal and sensitive material that most people would be reluctant to share. Such topics include drugs/alcohol dependency, complicated families, declining mental health, and much more. His candid approach was simultaneously poignant and shockingly funny. It’s a pay-what-you-can show but the money goes to homeless shelters, and raising awareness about the plight of those on the fringes of society. You don’t need to have a dark past to appreciate his content and Iain’s excellent delivery.
morag campbell 35 days ago
Hilarious, Emotional, Intelligent and Inspiring.
Highly recommend this amazing show .
Stephanie Shakay Tierney 35 days ago
Cannot say enough good things about this show! I laughed, cried, separately and simultaneously. Traumedy deals with some serious issues, making them absolutely hilarious bur never minimised. Absolutely will be going back to see the show again!
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