The most exciting theatrical event in South London returns this spring for its 3rd edition, now expanding into a wider range of venues featuring all kinds of montages. Guillermo Nazara chats with the woman behind the action, to learn all the facts about this exhilarating showcase boosting the talent and creativity of the local community.
How does it feel to be bringing back the festival for a third edition?
It’s fantastic to have Peckham Fringe in its 3rd year. I cannot express enough how important it is for us to bring back this festival amidst the challenging times that fringe theatre is facing right now. Theatres have suffered greatly from severe funding cuts, and sadly, festivals that provide a platform for new voices are too often the casualties of these cuts. Peckham Fringe is an important beacon of hope, and it fills me with such joy that we are able to showcase new voices that are representative of our society.
This time the festival has expanded beyond its birthplace, Theatre Peckham. What’s been the process of creating this much more complete version?
This year, we have the inclusion of Hatch & Scratch, a new writing night hosted at our neighbouring Golden Goose Theatre. This synergy is great as it’s a perfect platform for creatives to come together, hatch new ideas and then share them in a scratch night. At Theatre Peckham, we love a collaboration. The most exciting work is born through collective energy, so when Pathway’s Theatre reached out to our Ambassadors team, who curate the festival, they embraced it with a resounding “Yes!”. This is a first for us so it’s exciting to have the vibrant spirit of Theatre Peckham stretching out across Camberwell.
Musicals, plays, clowning… It seems as if almost every style has been comprised into this festival. Does that decision also come as a result of its diversity advocacy?
The decision to include a wide range of styles and genres in Peckham Fringe is a direct reflection of our commitment to amplifying the voices that are often marginalised or underrepresented in traditional theatre settings. Theatre is for everyone so it makes sense that we should showcase the creativity that exists within our community. We want Peckham Fringe to be a space where artists can push boundaries, challenge norms, and be confident in their own unique perspectives.
What are some of the diverse and exciting pieces that will be featured at the Peckham Fringe Festival?
Well, audiences are in for a treat at the Peckham Fringe and there are so many fab shows to talk about. To pick out a few, we have “Best Fit” a heartwarming story about three women who meet at a bespoke African tailoring shop in Peckham. It’s an exploration of beauty standards, womanhood, and the pressure to fit in. Jason Patterson is with us for “Public Enemy No 1” a hilarious stand-up comedy show where he shares his experiences growing up and his encounters with the police, while “Is There Work on Mars” explores social conformity, diaspora and dealing with immigration from the perspective of a neurodiverse Chinese woman.
On the other hand, we also have In “Last Goal Wins,” where audiences are asked to question why African players don’t represent their native country in sports. The play touches on the impact this has on African countries’ competitiveness in international competitions and the desire for a sense of belonging. In complete contrast there’s “Bangtail: Baddest Cowboy Texas”, a wild ride that follows a man caught between two identities: a Clint Eastwood cowboy and a mid-American 9-5er. This show combines audience interaction with clowning and is a true delight for anyone who loves to laugh and be told a story.
For music lovers there is “Rain in the Serenade”, an interactive contemporary musical where audiences become the co-creator of the story through live voting and participation, making each performance a unique and unpredictable experience. We also have “Veyil”, a powerful and intense physical theatre performance that blends movement and spoken word, taking you on a gripping journey that will leave you speechless. That is just a taster of the rich diversity of shows in Peckham Fringe this year!
Are there any prospects of any of these shows transferring to other locations?
I am sure there will be. Peckham Fringe has been a platform for incredible talent, and we have seen many shows from our festival transfer to other locations in the past. For example, Tatenda Shamiso’s play “No ID” had a fantastic run at Peckham Fringe and went on to be staged at the Royal Court Theatre. It was a brilliant accomplishment for the show and a testament to all the creatives involved. Another show, “Before I Go,” also found success after its premiere at Theatre Peckham and is set for a run at Brixton House. And of course, “Sunny Side Up” and “I Love Acting but F*ck this Industry” both returned to our main stage for longer runs as they were so popular. It’s not just about the shows themselves, but also the opportunities that the festival provides for creatives. Many performers and artists have gone on to secure significant roles in other productions, including the West End. It’s proof of the quality of work that is nurtured and celebrated at Theatre Peckham.
Why come to the Peckham Fringe Festival?
Peckham Fringe is a celebration of culture and a launch pad for creatives. By coming to the festival, you are not only seeing fantastic shows, but you are also witnessing the birth of new, fabulous, alternative and experimental performances. Peckham Fringe pushes boundaries and amplifies voices from all corners of society. It’s an opportunity to see incredible theatre that is reasonably priced – and for those who live locally in South East London, it’s a chance to see great theatre right on your door step.
The 2024 Peckham Fringe Festival will run from 1 May to 8 June. Tickets, shows and venue information are available on the following link.
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