The Real Kyle McCarren – Edinburgh Festival Fringe

Picture: Natalie Powers

The Real Kyle McCarren continues at Forth at Pleasance Courtyard until 30 August 2026.

Star rating: five stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This is a must-see, must-hear, must-feel show. One of the best original scores of recent times.

This is a true story, told by Andy (Andy Roninson) as he reviews the life and death of his closest friend, Kyle. We ‘meet’ Kyle’s family as they grieve his loss. Andy believes he knew the ‘real Kyle’ and finds it extraordinary how people who also think they knew him have such wonderful memories and stories of kindness, yet Andy ‘knew Kyle’ was an asshole!

The people coming together in grief seem not be familiar with him at all, except perhaps Kyle’s mother, Siobhan (Jaygee Macapugay). Her memory of catching the boys smoking pot on the sly has shaped her opinion of Andy. With a lovely twinkle in her eye, Siobhan is very much a fully formed character. And a stunning vocalist.

The cast play other characters from Kyle’s life as the rituals that come with death are played out. Each character is beautifully sketched and builds a more complete picture of who Kyle was. Playing Kyle himself is Sean McVerry, oozing cheeky charm with swagger and an almost casual awareness of his talent. The rapport between Kyle and Andy is first class – the believable band mates who wrote great songs together.

Vincent Jamal Hooper is charisma on legs – his moves, vocals and rapport with the audience are an utter pleasure. Sarah Coffey is an adorable Justine, Kyle’s on/off girlfriend with a generous helping of sass. Again, further impeccable singing.  When all the voices come together, the harmonies send tingles and stir emotions.

Jamie Mohamdein on bass guitar has a lovely wee cameo role (totally endearing) and Paige Durr on drums and percussion is a delight to watch – her focus is absolute.

Above all though, Roninson wins the heart of everyone – the book and score are written by Roninson and McVerry and is as close to being flawless as any new show could be.

Go – see it here first – Edinburgh has a new smash hit musical.

Fiona Orr