one4review | On 13, Aug 2026

HAM, from Hotter Project, takes Shakespeare’s Hamlet and gives it a gloriously unconventional makeover. Performed and created by Mary Higgins and Ell Potter, the show is a riotous collision of Shakespeare, meat, veganism, climate change and some wonderfully anarchic physical theatre.

The production begins deceptively conventionally, with the performers dressed as Shakespearean actors and the opening section is delivered in a version of Shakespearean verse, interspersed with puns playing mischievously with animals, meat and familiar lines from Hamlet. It doesn’t take long, however, for the performance takes a decidedly bizarre turn.

It would be unfair to reveal too much of what follows, because one of the great pleasures of HAM is having absolutely no idea where it is going next. Higgins and Potter throw themselves into the increasingly outrageous performance with complete commitment, and the action moves through five acts at a terrific pace, including a short ‘interval’ and some brilliantly judged audience participation.

The production isn’t afraid to make its environmental and ethical concerns explicit. Back projections of abattoirs and the effects of climate change punctuate the action, while the increasingly provocative physicality and dialogue make their points about meat consumption and our relationship with animals impossible to ignore. At times, it may make an uncomfortable watch for committed carnivores or climate-change sceptics, but the serious message never gets in the way of the enjoyment of the performance.

The result is hilarious, inventive and gloriously unpredictable. A packed house responded with a well-deserved standing ovation, and it’s easy to see why. This is exactly the sort of original, fearless and inventive theatre that makes the Fringe so exciting. HAM is my first five-star show this year and is surely going to be one of the Fringe’s hits of 2026. If you can get a ticket, please do go and see it.

*****
Reviewed by Howard
Old Lab at Summerhall

Until 30th August (not 18th or 25th)
19.30 (1 hour)