Theatre Peckham has announced a diverse community-curated programme for its fourth Peckham Fringe this summer. But this year, there’s more.
Our commitment to inclusivity and representation is vital,
The south London theatre has excellent facilities. The foyer entrance is a spacious and bright licensed cafe that can accommodate 90 standing and 50 seated patrons. The main theatre seats 200 and there are two studios, one that seats 50 and another that seats 30. These numbers can vary according to the desired configuration, but collectively they provide something to suit the needs of most theatre companies who might want to perform at a fringe.
This year there will be an expanded programme following the appointment by Southwark Council of Theatre Peckham as managers of the Canada Water Theatre, located in the Canada Water Library. The library venue is a community-focused theatre and a platform for emerging artists to develop their creative ideas, rehearse, and strengthen community connections. It is a versatile space with a capacity of 150 people and sophisticated lighting and sound, making it ideal for events, performances and rehearsals.
The Fringe offers a varied line-up of nearly 30 shows and is seen as an integral part of the Theatre’s mission to provide more artists with the opportunity to showcase their work while enhancing accessibility for local residents to experience theatre on their doorstep. By providing a platform for emerging and established artists the Theatre aims to remove barriers they often face in putting on their work.
Suzann McLean MBE, CEO/Artistic Director of Theatre Peckham, said: “Peckham Fringe…. is a festival for creatives who have something to say, who want to platform work that is innovative and need the support to do so. We are committed to offering an opportunity to see incredible theatre that is reasonably priced. We are doing this because the richness of theatre can only develop by opening our doors to new artists, new work and new voices.”
The festival is curated by Theatre Peckham’s Ambassadors, a group of dedicated local community members who ensure that the programming is ambitious and reflective of a range of community voices. Local writer/performer Jessica Siân said: "As Ambassadors we bring fresh perspectives that shape the festival into a true reflection of the breadth of artistic talent. Our commitment to inclusivity and representation is vital in our mission to amplify underrepresented voices.”
Peckham Fringe runs from 1 May to 6 June. Alongside the annual Monologue Showcase, Poetry Foyer and Hatch and Scratch, there will be a wide span of theatre, dance, comedy and spoken word including themes such as gentrification, immigration and gendered expression.
For the full Peckham Fringe 2025 programme, and to book shows, visit: https://www.theatrepeckham.co.uk/peckham-fringe-2025-shows-events/.
