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About the Show

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The Entirely Unique Life Of A Shy Canadian Boy Who Grew Up To Become A Legendary Canadian Drag Queen

The evening will take audiences on the journey of a young boy from Calgary, Alberta, whose adult life as one of Canada’s foremost drag artists led her to Vancouver, San Francisco, Hollywood, and eventually Edinburgh. This remarkably candid and hilarious show is a coming-of-age story like no other that shares the triumphs, struggles and friendships (often with the very famous and successful) that will make for a one-of-a-kind experience for Fringe-goers this August. 

The creation of Canadian entertainer and writer, Robert Kaiser, Joan-E is one of Canada’s most successful and award-winning drag queens. A celebrated MC, performer — who sang with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, philanthropist and actor, Joan-E has appeared in numerous film and television roles including: The Good Doctor, Riverdale, and as ‘Paul’ in the Universal motion picture, Connie and Carla, starring Nia Verdalos, Toni Colette, and Debbie Reynolds. Joan-E was recognized with a nomination for a Leo Award (the premier awards program for the British Columbia film and television industry) for her work as ‘The Devil’ in The Collector television series. 

In early 2026, Joan-E packed up her frocks and moved to Edinburgh, where she is thrilled to premiere her life story at Edinburgh Festival Fringe. 

Bust-E Productions combines the talents of Robert Kaiser, San Francisco philanthropist, Ralph Hyman, and Scottish-Canadian event and marketing strategist, Scott Mackay, who are honoured to bring their distinct talents and expertise to this year’s Fringe run. 

Show Schedule

18:00 & 20:30

Friday 7 August 

18:00 & 20:30

Saturday 8 August 

20:30

Monday 10 August 

20:30

Tuesday 11 August 

20:30

Wednesday 12 August 

18:00 & 20:30

Thursday 13 August 

18:00 & 20:30

Friday 14 August

18:00 & 20:30

Saturday 15 August 

Tuesday 18 August 

20:30

20:30

Wednesday 19 August 

Wednesday 26 August 

20:30

Tuesday 25 August 

20:30

Saturday 22 August 

18:00 & 20:30

Friday 21 August

18:00 & 20:30

18:00 & 20:30

Thursday 20 August 

Saturday 22 August 

18:00 & 20:30

Friday 21 August

18:00 & 20:30

Thursday 20 August 

18:00 & 20:30

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Show Venue

The Edinburgh Thistle Hotel

 

59 Manor Place

Edinburgh, UK

EH3 7EG

Fully licensed, the Manor Lounge Bar is tastefully decorated to give a traditional Scottish ambience. Pictorial images portray scenes of Edinburgh city centre and the Scottish landscape, they also have a wood burning stove to keep you warm during the colder nights.

Informal, relaxing and lively on occasion, they cater to local residents and visitors alike. Plenty of comfortable seating is available and you can sample an extensive range of single malt whiskies, spirits, draught and bottled beers, wines, cocktails and soft drinks. There will also be appetisers and small bites available to enjoy during the show.  

Manor Lounge Bar @ The Edinburgh Thistle Hotel

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