Guelph Fringe Festival takes centre stage in Guelph

Where can you enjoy live theatre for just $15? Right here in Guelph.

Get ready for a celebration of creativity and community as the Guelph Fringe Festival takes to the stage. The festival comes with four days of live performances, August 8 to 11 at three different downtown venues. 

This year’s diverse playbill features 17 different productions with a total of 48 performances, beginning Thursday evening and running through to Sunday afternoon. All shows will be performed at Silence Sounds, the Guelph Museum, and artBar (Guelph Arts Council).

“We’re excited to bring the Fringe experience back to Guelph,” said Paul Barson, Festival Coordinator. “It’s a unique opportunity for local audiences to be inspired by the innovative work of independent artists from near and far.”

All performers are selected via lottery and the shows are often original pieces, spanning many theatre genres including comedy, drama, music, and performance art. While the mainstage productions may contain mature themes, the Fireflies on the Fringe program is returning this summer with two special shows selected with young audiences in mind. 

“The Fringe offers the magic of live theatre for everyone,” said Barson. “It’s a great way to spend some family time, and to share an experience in the theatre that’s tailored just for kids.”

The Guelph event is one of over 300 Fringe Festivals held annually around the world to showcase the work of independent performing artists. With so many solo shows, ensemble pieces, experimental music, and works of improv, there’s sure to be something for all tastes and interests.

The Guelph Fringe Festival is made possible through the generosity of downtown businesses, partnerships with local arts organizations, and funding from The Ontario Arts Council and the City of Guelph. 

“We’re so grateful for the support of our community partners,” said Barson. “They allow us to bring this amazing festival to Guelph for just $15 a ticket, and that’s the best entertainment value anywhere.”

Tickets for the Guelph Fringe Festival are available now at guelphfringe.ca. The full program and schedule can be found on the website, along with more information on the Fireflies program and all the other 45 shows. 

Here’s the lineup of show titles at this year’s Guelph Fringe:      

*family friendly

Affogato

Night Just Before the Forest 

Amygdala & Hum-Buzz

Phantosmia / No Lilies

Cornflake

Private Parts

Couch Surfing

Puppetmongers* 

Death of a Starman

Rethinking Good Intentions

Giddy-up Guys

Stoppable

Look What We Have Here

Super Hero Talent Scout*

Love So Far

The Velveteen Rabbit*

Make up! The Musical

Guelph Fringe is a proud member of the Canadian Association of Fringe Festivals (CAFF). The mission of CAFF is to unite, support, empower, and strengthen member festivals to cultivate and foster independent artistic exploration for artists and audiences across North America.

Follow the Guelph Fringe Festival on Facebook and Instagram @guelphfringe.

Shopping Cart
Scroll to Top