SHAFTESBURY Fringe, three days of every kind of entertainment imaginable, returns to the historic Dorset town from 18th to 20th July, with a programme of more than 300 events (a record number) spread around 37 venues.
As director Rob Neely says, it’s all about Shaftesbury: “From its very creation, Shaftesbury Fringe has acted as a powerful catalyst. It encourages local people to become involved by experiencing performances from all aspects of the arts, creating a genuine and lasting legacy for future generations.”
Run as a not-for-profit organisation and staffed by volunteers, the Fringe operates an open-door policy. As Rob explains: “We don’t chose or vet any of the performers so what emerges is totally unpredictable.”
The resulting compendium of fun, music, magic, poetry, jazz, laughter, drama and Tibetan singing bowls … really has something for everyone.
Take your pick from stand-up comedy (including comedians trying out their Edinburgh Fringe set) to classical music for the cello (with Emily Burridge), from a child-friendly and colourful staging of Alice Through the Looking Glass (Hedgehog Theatre, pictured) to Blue Murder at Gallows Bottom (at the arts centre), from Charlie Greenwood singing Americana, songs for summer and Hollywood hits, to a traditional Punch & Judy show in the rose garden opposite Shaftesbury Abbey.from sea shanties to folk singer and former Shaftesbury resident Jo Philby, who makes the 750-mile journey from her home on the Orkney islands to take part … and so much more.
If you are interested in Dorset’s own history – musical and literary – two events to look out for are Tim Laycock musician, singer, poet, actor and local historian, leading traditional Dorset music sessions, and Hardy Annuals (a trio of actors Richard Hall and Jan wild and fiddler Richard Willetts, pictured), with songs and readings about the Dorset coast and countryside.
For a full run-down, pick up a fully illustrated and informative Fringe programme, complete with a map of venues, or visit www.shaftesburyfringe.co.uk