August is fast approaching which means it’s time to scour the Edinbugh Festival Fringe programme for the best shows to see.
The physical programme was launched earlier this month, with 3,352 show across 265 venues, and some are already selling out.
It can be a fairly daunting prospect to narrow those down when organising your Fringe.
It’s always nice to take a chance on something, hoping to be the first to see a hot new act - but sometimes it’s just nice to see a couple of familiar faces from television.
Edinburgh has been the launching pad for a host of household names - everybody from Emma Thompson to Graham Norton started out with shows in the city.
Many enjoy returning with their latest show in August - or to try out a work on progress in front of a comedy-literate crowd before heading out on a nationwide tour.
Here are 17 of the biggest, most famous, names performing this year.
5. Rhys Darby
Perhaps still best known for his role as band manager Murray Hewitt in television comedy 'The Flight of the Conchords' (which also started life in Edinbugh), Rhys Darby has also starred in a string of films - including 'The Boat That Rocked'. 'What We Do in the Shadows', 'Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle' and 'Next Goal Wins'. His new show, 'The Legend Returns', is at the Pleasance Grand from August 1-10. | Getty Images
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6. Alan Davies
'QI' and 'Jonathan Creek' star Alan Davies is making a welcome return to standup in Edinburgh, with his new show 'Think Ahead' - about the indignities of growing old. It's at the Gilden Balloon from July 30-August 10. | Getty Images
7. Bill Bailey
'Strictly Come Dancing' favourite (and champion) Bill Bailey will be bringing his latest touring show, 'Thoughtifier', to the Fringe for two huge shows at the Playhouse Theatre. Expect the usual blend of hilarious comedy and genuinely impressive musicianship. He's performing on August 23 and 24. | Getty Images
8. Caroline Rhea
Best known for her role as Hilda Spellman in much-loved television series 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch', Caroline Rhea is also an in-demand comedian who is a regular on Hollywood Squares (America's 'Blankety Blank). She's back in Edinburgh as part of the Gilded Balloon's 40th birthday celebrations - appearing at the venue from August 1-10. | Getty Images