Colin Cloud: Hoax – Pleasance Courtyard Grand

If illusions and magic are your thing or you just fancy a good mind-boggle, Colin Cloud has you covered. From guessing the names and dates of people’s first kisses to getting an audience member to read the audiences’ minds, this show is sure to have you leaving more confused than you started.

Cloud has an incredible stage presents: Funny, trustworthy and somewhat other worldly. He is incredible skilled at what he does and despite there being 700 plus people in the room, he made sure to make the whole room feel included.

Now I don’t want to spoil too much so the tricks themselves will remain a secret, but the show is well paced and has you on the edge of your seat throughout.  Audience participation is guaranteed with a large number of audience being chosen for set tricks or being brought onto the stage, however Cloud does not force anyone to do anything they don’t want to so If this is a fear of yours don’t be worried. If you think hiding in the back will save you from being noticed however… well think again.

With an incredibly well put together production and an extremely impressive host, Hoax is a real testament to the best of Fringe Theatre and performance. It’s sure to leave you confused and impressed. My only gripe was that due to the venue being so large the show started late, finishing 20 minutes after its starting time, this is of course not on the show however it is worth keeping in mind if you are booking shows within the half an hour after.

Colin Cloud: Hoax is performing at Pleasance Courtyard (Grand) at 19:30 daily (excluding 18^th) until August 30^th. Tickets can be purchased at:

Colin Cloud: Hoax | Edinburgh Festival Fringe

Reviewer: Beth Eltringham

Reviewed: 8th August 2026

North West End UK / Theatre Muse Rating: