What is “the fringe” and what does it represent?
It’s the festivals, the pop-ups, the studios, pub theatres and tiny gems that fill Theatreland. Not mainstream, but often extraordinary.
Having reviewed it seriously for eight years, including being accredited for Edinburgh, Brighton, Camden and New York, here’s ten things i love about the theatre that happens away from the star-studded tourist traps and long-runners of the West End.
Theatre is without definition
It doesn’t have to be a play, musical, or revue. Turn on some lights and bring in an audience, and whether 30 people or 300 people are watching, magic can happen.
Theatre should provoke and challenge
No topic is off-limits. When theatre leaves you reeling, angry, tearful or just understanding a topic you know little about, that’s when it does what it does best.
Theatre needs to be close-up
Sure, you can buy a front row ticket for one of those big shows, but there’s nothing like being in a room in a pub, or a studio space, literally within spitting distance of a performer.
Theatre can be affordable
In London, where I do most of my theatre-going, there are over 200 venues outside of the West End and its affiliates. On any given day you can see a show for under £30, usually in very friendly surroundings.
Theatre gives emerging artists a platform
Got something to say? Book a venue and get yourself out there. We’re listening. I’ve seen so many terrific productions out of my comfort zone. Try a new place. Give an unknown a chance.
Theatre doesn’t have to have stunt or star casting
It means you see new artists trying things out, and people who have been around for years doing what they do best, connecting with an audience. You may see a TV or film star on the Fringe, and that’s great, but it is all about creativity and celebration, not just to see X.
Theatre can be just about anything
Puppets, art shows, cabaret, comedy, children’s shows, and the unclassifiable all thrive on the Fringe, with people doing what they believe in and love without the need or expectation of bringing in big bucks. It can shock. It should. But it can also entertain.
Theatre should be a safe space
For LGBTQIA+ people, lone women, the neurodiverse, or simply those who want to be out of their comfort zone, the Fringe is a place of welcome without feeling you need to dress up or navigate hen nights or tourist groups.
Theatre isn’t just about the money
Outside the commercial West End anything can happen without having multi-milliom pound productions. No one plays the Fringe to become wealthy. But audiences can see 10 Fringe shows for the price of a decent seat in the big venues.
Theatre should be memorable
Many of the greatest moments I have had in theatre are on the Fringe, spotting an upcoming performer, admiring a new writer exploring a new venue. Out of my comfort zone, whether seeing a classic play through fresh eyes or a solo show that just has to be showcased up close and personal.
So true, and you’re a top reviewer, always fair and informative.
Thank you Renske! BTW do follow my new Insta loureview2025 if you aren’t already. I lost access to the original one in January.