The Walthamstow Fringe runs until 31st August, with performances every Thursday to Sunday
By Sarah Jones
If you thought The Walthamstow Fringe was just the name of local hair salon, Bangs, think again – the Dramatic Arts are making the cut too, with a sharp new season of local writing set to take centre stage at Ye Olde Rose Crown Theatre Bar, right across the road.
Long-time champion of local theatre, manager Joanna Barrett-Constantinou, is seeing her dream reach fruition this August, as the cream of Walthamstow’s creative talent takes to the stage with bold, original new work in the iconic Hoe Street pub.
“We started in 2019 but weren’t able to find our rhythm,” says Jo. “Post-Covid, though, we’ve had a really lovely uptake – lots of local artists we didn’t know before – and now we’ve got some really interesting shows lined up. We’re very excited!”
Jo, herself an actress, understands the challenges of staging new work. “I know how hard it is to get something up and running. The Fringe has always been about developing new writing – giving artists a platform to see their work played out before taking it to the next stage.”
“Most Fringe events are very expensive. It’s really difficult when you’re having to fund everything yourself. We’re different – there are no upfront costs for artists. We do an equal box office split, so the risks and rewards are shared.”
“The Walthamstow Fringe kicked off on 31st July and runs until 31st August, with performances every Thursday to Sunday with a few special Wednesday evening events sprinkled in.
“We’ve got lots of one-nighters, a few three-day runs with matinees, and we’re hosting some brilliant workshops – including a comedy writing workshop with guest facilitators,” Jo says.
She adds: “We have local group Ensemble, led by Foxy, who facilitates free networking events and borough-wide performances, and the ever-popular scratch nights hosted by the fabulous drag artist Tuppence A’Bag.”
Ticket prices range from £7.50 to £15, and the team are keeping it interactive: “We’ll be asking audiences for feedback afterwards!”
Ready to let your hair down? Comb through the listings here
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