Comedy Duo Lara Ciulli and Riana White Captivate Edinburgh Fringe with Raw and Joyful Clowning

A New Kind of Clowning in Edinburgh

As the sun dips below the historic skyline of Scotland’s capital this August, the atmosphere at the Pleasance Courtyard shifts into something altogether more electric. For those navigating the vast, vibrant sprawl of the 2026 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, where more than 4,000 unique productions compete for attention, a particular buzz is surrounding the Attic space. It is here that comedy duo Lara Ciulli and Riana White are inviting audiences into their world with their new production, Those People. This show is not merely a performance; it is a masterclass in the delicate art of modern clowning, blending raw emotional honesty with the kind of high-energy physicality that leaves spectators breathless. While the festival is famous for its sheer scale, Ciulli and White have managed to carve out a pocket of genuine intimacy, turning their late-night slot into a must-see event of the season.

The Journey from East London to the Attic

Both Ciulli and White, who are professionally based in East London, bring a wealth of creative evolution to this project. The artistic maturity displayed in Those People suggests a significant milestone for the duo. For Lara Ciulli, this summer marks a triumphant return to the festival circuit, following her well-deserved nomination for the Chortle Best Newcomer award earlier in the year. Her background, which includes her previous work as one half of the comedy act The Sisters Fig back in 2024, provides a solid foundation for the technical precision seen in this current run. Together, the pair has crafted a show that serves as both a celebration of their deepening friendship and a testament to their growth as creative partners. They have found a perfect home in the Attic, a venue within the iconic Pleasance Courtyard complex, which has been a staple of the Fringe experience since 1985. The intimate end-on stage layout of the Attic ensures that no nuance of their performance is lost, allowing the pair to connect with their audience in a way that feels intensely personal despite the late hour of their 23:00 performances.

Physical Comedy and Emotional Truths

Categorized officially under the realms of Alternative Comedy and Clown, the production is anything but conventional. The heart of the show lies in its ability to pivot effortlessly between vulnerable storytelling and sharp, satirical comedy. One particular highlight of the evening is their inventive take on the literary classic Wuthering Heights, a satirical parody that showcases the pair’s ability to deconstruct well-known narratives with humor and wit. Yet, it is the physical comedy segments, specifically a series of specialized chair-duets, that truly anchor the performance. These routines are not just humorous; they are tightly choreographed pieces that reflect the complexities of human relationships, requiring immense trust and timing between the two performers. Throughout the 60-minute duration, the show successfully explores the joys and challenges of partnership, resonating deeply with viewers who appreciate the courage it takes to bare one’s artistic soul on stage.

A Critical Triumph at the Fringe

Success at the Edinburgh Fringe is often measured by the word-of-mouth energy that builds throughout August, and in this regard, Ciulli and White have achieved remarkable heights. With a schedule encompassing 25 performances, running from Wednesday, August 5, through to Sunday, August 30, the duo has had ample opportunity to hone their craft, and the critics have certainly taken notice. The show has earned a stellar four-star rating from The Student, while garnering glowing reviews from respected outlets such as Fest Mag and Chortle. This critical acclaim validates the duo’s bold decision to blend clowning with such deep emotional weight, proving that audiences are hungering for performances that offer both a laugh and a genuine sense of connection. The reception has been overwhelmingly positive, cementing their status as rising stars who are not afraid to push the boundaries of their chosen medium.

Looking Toward a Bright Creative Future

As the festival reaches its conclusion at the end of August, the impact of Those People remains a bright spot in the broader UK cultural landscape. The show stands as a glowing example of how physical comedy can be used to tell complex, character-driven stories, demonstrating the vital role that independent productions play in the artistic health of the nation. For Ciulli and White, this run represents far more than just a successful engagement at a historic venue; it marks a period of significant creative momentum. By staying true to their vision and engaging with their audience in such a raw and joyful manner, they have created a piece of work that is likely to be remembered long after the lights in the Attic dim. As they wrap up their final performances, the pair leaves behind a legacy of collaboration and artistic honesty that will surely inspire their future endeavors, marking a triumphant chapter in their ongoing professional journey.