Tomás Bepalo brings their new show to the Edinburgh Fringe this year.
What’s your show called for Edinburgh Fringe 2025?
What Gets Better?
How long have you been doing the Edinburgh Fringe?
I’ve been attending the Edinburgh Fringe since 2021. In my first year, I only did guest spots as I was completely new to the festival and still finding my feet. The following year, I teamed up with a friend to create a double bill show, and we did a full run across the month. We were fortunate enough to receive reviews from two publications—one gave us four stars, the other five—and Tim Vine even retweeted and mentioned us on Twitter (back when it was still called that!). In 2023, I shifted focus slightly and helped produce a few shows while continuing to do guest spots. Then, in 2024, I performed a 40-minute version of the show I’m debuting this year and also hosted a variety show.
How do you cope with the overwhelming chaos that the Fringe brings?
Friends and alone time are my saving grace. I’m lucky to be part of a network of comedians from all over the UK—and even beyond—who come together every year for the Fringe. We all understand how exhausting it can be, so we look out for one another and help each other make the most of it. I also make a conscious effort not to overbook myself—I try to stick to no more than two shows or gigs per day. Having access to a quiet, dark room to recharge is essential for me.
What sort of shows will you see if you have time?
Honestly, I’d love to see everything, especially shows by my friends—it’s important to support one another. That said, I tend to run out of “social energy” quite quickly, so I usually prioritise physical theatre. It’s engaging, less word-heavy, and tends to leave a strong impression, even when I’m low on energy.
Have you performed at any other Fringes? If so, which has been your favourite so far?
Yes, my very first fringe experience was in London at the Wandsworth Fringe in 2015. This year, I’ll also be performing at the Greater Manchester Fringe in July.
But for me, the Edinburgh Fringe will always be my favourite. It feels like a tradition—a celebration, even. It’s an excuse to perform for 24 days straight, surrounded by friends who have become like family. It’s the only time of year I truly feel successful.
Any advice to newbies about flyering?
Patience is key. Any task that involves approaching strangers and convincing them to come to your show is always going to be challenging. Don’t let it knock your confidence—if someone walks past without a glance, just shake it off and keep going. Have a short opening line ready that clearly explains the type of show you’re promoting, and a slightly longer pitch for those who stop to take a flyer and want to know more.
What are your plans for the show after the Edinburgh Fringe?
I’m still finalising everything, but at the moment, I’m planning to perform in Barcelona this November. There’s a fringe there organised by The Comedy Clubhouse, which is run by their in-house team, as far as I know.
Please feel free to add anything you would like to as well. You know your show better than anyone.
This is my first full-length solo comedy show, and I’m putting everything I have into it. For the first time, I’m being fully honest—every joke, every line comes from a genuine place. The show is about me, but I truly believe that many people will find moments that resonate with them. Ultimately, all I’ve ever wanted is to win an award—but more than that, I just want to connect with people and be seen.
For more information about What Gets Better please use the link below.
https://edinburghfestival.datathistle.com/event/2670044-tomas-bepalo-what-gets-better/
Theatre, Art and Film Reviews 
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