August 3, 2025 
One4Review
The Asian Showcase is quietly becoming one of the standing institutions of the Fringe — a fast-paced, unpredictable comedy cocktail where Asian talent from around the world shares the stage with rising stars, seasoned pros, and the occasional “token straight white man.” The lineup changes daily, so you never quite know who’s going to show up — and that’s half the fun.It all kicks off with a brilliant VT in the style of a ye olde Pathé newsreel, explaining what the Free Fringe is — because, let’s be honest, getting money out of an Edinburgh audience can be like squeezing soy milk from a brick. But it sets the tone perfectly and puts the room instantly at ease.Holding it all together is the exceptional Sam See — a Singaporean powerhouse of a compère. With razor wit, sprite-like energy, and expert crowd control, he owns the room from the first word and doesn’t let go.Here’s how it played out on the night:Jess LoOriginally from Hong Kong, now based in Bristol — the perfect aperitif for the evening. Charming, low-key, and a joke about Chinese medicine that could very well be a Fringe highlight. An understated delight.Jen ZhengA Northern Irish Chinese comic with infectious energy and some cracking cross-cultural takes. From Irish border jokes to why AI should never design your Fringe poster, she’s funny, fast, and completely watchable. Definitely one to keep an eye on.Chris NguyễnVietnamese Australian with the sleepy confidence of a koala that’s fallen out of a tree and landed in the middle of the Fringe. But make no mistake — he absolutely slayed. Smart, sharp writing, especially around gaslighting. A name to remember.Paul SavageThe evening’s designated straight white male, and no disappointment. His observational material on hotels was razor-sharp and well-delivered. Should absolutely be on your radar.Sonali ThakkerFrom India, and quite simply, a star in the making. In her short set, she had the room in the palm of her hand. If you like the structure and pace of Vir Das, she’s got that — but with her own distinct punch. Her “dog or kid” dilemma — a running trope this Fringe — felt fresh, funny, and was another contender for joke of the festival. Magnificent.All in all, one of the best compilation shows at this year’s Fringe. No weak links, big laughs, and a brilliant way to discover some of the most exciting comics around. Definitely worth checking out — maybe even more than once. Click Here For Review