Nestled in the shadows of the Hub, C aquila played host to a brand new original musical Lisa! The Mona Lisa Musical at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026.

This musical based on the story of how the Mona Lisa became famous was a whacky version of the tale involving a time travel heist in which Lisa (of Mona Lisa fame) travels forward in time to steal her painting in a plot in attempt to show her husband that she is capable of being well-loved and known.

Stepping into the venue, pianist Finlay Stafford and cellist Xenia Haslam are already on stage, setting the scene for the show to come. It’s always a bonus when a musical’s live band welcomes you into the space, and even better when they remain part of the action throughout, sharing the spotlight with the actors rather than being tucked away at the back of a darkened room.

It’s a fantastically cast production, with every member of the ensemble given their moment to shine, supported by undeniably brilliant writing for an original show. Sophia Holmes, however, steals the spotlight, commanding the stage with both presence and vocal prowess with one of the best voices we’ve heard at the Fringe.

Keeping the comedy woven throughout, the cast also make impressive use of their props, squeezing every possible moment out of the stage. Armed with everything from a picture frame (of course) to a plastic ‘goose’ wing…they make the most of every area and every prop.

For an original musical, the songs are incredibly tight, well-formed and infectious, with highlights including ‘Kleptomanic’, ‘She’s Back’ and my personal favourite ‘Sixty Heads Are Better Than One’.

While the storyline knowingly sits on the whackier side of the musical world, the plot felt rushed towards the end, and squeezed together to fit the hour-long slot which affects some of the momentum the show has built throughout as you’re trying to catch up. Rather than rushing, some songs could easily be omitted and allow the true and strong storyline the time it deserves.

As I left the venue, I could hear audience members singing “it’s back… it’s back” to one another, a true testament to the staying power of the show’s songs. It’s clear there’s something special here, and with a little tightening of the end of the show, this original musical would become even stronger – and moreso it deserves to.

Overall, it’s a well-formed and slightly bonkers hour that leaves you laughing, smiling and singing along by the curtain call.