Chakira Alin brings her real-life experience of London and homelessness to the Edinburgh Fringe with House Party
This summer, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival welcomes a fresh, urgent voice in theatre as Chakira Alin brings her debut solo show House Party to the Pleasance Courtyard. A multi-award-winning writer and performer, Chakira draws directly on her own experiences of homelessness, the housing crisis, and the gentrification of East London to deliver a performance that is as politically charged as it is wildly entertaining.
House Party began with a simple but powerful question: “Why don’t people throw house parties anymore?” The answer, it turns out, is rooted in the housing crisis gripping much of the UK. Through a compelling blend of stand-up comedy, dance, and sharp social commentary, Chakira’s show paints a vivid picture of what it means to live in a city where space, security, and community are increasingly out of reach.
Set against the backdrop of a sticky-floored, shoulder-to-shoulder living room packed with the soundtrack of Charli XCX, Miley Cyrus, and Cameo, House Party is more than a nostalgic nod to nights spent dancing in cramped kitchens. It is a heartfelt exploration of class, inequality, and the relentless pressures faced by working-class artists and Londoners navigating an unforgiving rental market.
At the heart of the show is Skip, an aspiring actor fighting to stay afloat in a world of generational wealth and gentrification. With humour and warmth, Chakira captures the clash between old and new, the displacement of communities, and the eroding joy of nightlife. Her story resonates far beyond London, striking a chord with anyone who has felt the sting of economic and social exclusion.
Chakira Alin, a proud East Londoner, shares, “House Party was born out of the realisation that no one has house parties anymore. To me, that’s because no one has houses anymore. Growing up seeing the gentrification of my hometown and feeling the effects of the housing crisis firsthand, I knew this was a story that needed telling. I want audiences to leave feeling enraged, politically engaged, and ready to party.”
Shortlisted for the Charlie Hartill Award 2025 and developed with support from major theatre institutions including Seven Dials Playhouse, Hackney Empire, and Soho Theatre, House Party has already enjoyed success at venues such as the Southbank Centre and Royal Court Theatre. The show is directed by Rae Morris and produced by Quite The Cowboy, a production company known for its comedic and politically sharp work.
Performing at the Pleasance Courtyard (Attic) from 30th July to 25th August 2025 (excluding 12th and 21st), House Party runs for 60 minutes and is recommended for audiences aged 12 and above due to strong language. Tickets are affordably priced, reflecting Chakira’s commitment to accessibility and engagement.
In a climate where housing inequality dominates headlines and public debate, House Party is a timely, powerful reminder of how the simple joy of a night with friends can become a radical act of resistance. For those seeking theatre that is both entertaining and deeply relevant, Chakira Alin’s House Party is not to be missed.
House Party previews on 18th and 19th July at 7pm at Seven Dials Playhouse. The show is part of the Seven Dials Seven selected programme. Book tickets at https://www.sevendialsplayhouse.co.uk/shows/house-party
The full Edinburgh run takes place at 15:20 daily (except 12th and 21st July) from Wednesday 30th July to Monday 25th August 2025 at Pleasance Courtyard (Attic), 60 Pleasance, Edinburgh EH8 9TJ.
Book tickets at https://www.pleasance.co.uk/event/house-party
Follow on social media: @chakiraalin @quitethecowboy #HousePartyPlay