Edinburgh Fringe: What to see at the Big Four

Hannah Gadsby – Nanette

Childhood, family and friendships all become overshadowed by divisive political debates, such as the changing and challenging legal status around discrimination and same-sex marriage. Hannah Gadsby is questioning if stand-up can really respond to such issues, and discussing the traumatic personal experiences such an environment fosters. It has even left her asking if she can continue as a comedian at all.

Assembly, George Square (Studio 5), 2-27 Aug (not 15), 5.30pm, £7.50-£12

Scott Agnew: Spunk on Our Lady's Face

Private and public realms clash in Scott Agnew's new show. He's reflecting on if his HIV diagnosis – which he made public last year – has had a more positive impact on his life than his strict Catholic education.

Gilded Balloon, Teviot (Turret), 2-28 Aug (not 15), 10.15pm, £6-£10

Red Bastard: Lie With Me

Have you ever thought of having an affair? Of course not. Trouble is, there's a monstrous scarlet clown back from a hiatus and he's intent on leading you into the sinful delights and pleasures of temptation. What a bastard! 

Pleasance Courtyard (Two), 2-27 Aug (not 14), 9.30pm, £6-£11

Elf Lyons: Swan

Once, in one of the most memorable sequences in The Simpsons, murderous Sideshow Bob performed a Gilbert and Sullivan operetta on the back of a boat as a way of granting a last wish to his intended victim. There's something similarly eccentic and hilarious in Elf Lyon's premise: a one hour, solo production of Tchaikovsky's ballet Swan Lake. 

Underbelly, Med Quad (Clover), 2-28 Aug (not 15), 9.30pm, £6.50-£10

See The Skinny's August issue for our Top 5 recommendations from the other main comedy venues.