Fringe for Free 2019

We have plenty of free stuff to do at the Fringe, and it's all listed here. Look out too for free child tickets and generous concessionary prices for many shows. Fringe Friends also receive 10% (and sometimes more) off full ticket prices.

All of the shows are listed here.

Events marked Family Friendly have been suggested by the entrant as generally suitable for family viewing. NB Events in the For Families category tend to be specifically aimed at young people.

Please note that details of performances, including times and dates, may be subject to Late Changes. Numbers in brackets refer to venue numbers (see map)

         Comedy          Dance          For Families          Music          Spoken Word          Street Theatre          Visual Arts          Other Events

Diary Venue Map

 Comedy

A princess is born!

CAST VS CREW - Foolish Bandits
Three daring cast members, who are determined to perform an audience-chosen fairy tale, compete against three dastardly technicians, who try to hinder the performance using lights, sounds and props. Who will win this improvised contest? Fast, chaotic and entertaining - famous fairy tales like you've never seen them before!
Underground at the Arts Centre Studio (74a) OpenStreetMap 5, 6 & 20, 21 Jul 10:15pm to 11pm, Pay what you can Review
Further information: underthefringe.com. Info: 020 8144 0070 Comments

Andy Gilbert

HOW TO BE A WORLD-CLASS POET IN UNDER AN HOUR - Andy Gilbert
Andy Gilbert describes himself as a poet and educator. Despite concerns about his level of delusion, his sincerity cannot be doubted as he teaches us how to be a world-class poet in less than an hour. A masterclass or a delayed mid-life crisis dressed up as entertainment? You decide. (New Writing)
Hydro Restaurant and Bar (22) OpenStreetMap 7 Jul 6pm to 7pm Free, Adult themes and strong language, Ages 16+ Review Comments(2)

REALITY SUCKS! - Nav Chima Family Friendly
Escape reality with a stand-up comedian so underground, she’s only performed in sewer pipes to society’s pests: wasted possums and advertising executives. Awarded ‘Wittiest Comedian’ by the raccoons that live across from her. This award was given sarcastically.
Rotunda – Pavilion Gardens (33k) OpenStreetMap 11 Jul 6pm to 7pm, 16 Jul 9pm to 10pm Free Review
Further information: navchima@gmail.com Comments(1)

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         Comedy          Dance          For Families          Music          Spoken Word          Street Theatre          Visual Arts          Other Events

 Dance

The dancers are coming for you!

BUXTON DAY OF DANCE 2019 - Chapel-en-le-Frith Morris Family Friendly
A feast of traditional dancing from around the country. The streets of Buxton will be filled with the music, colour, passion, energy and humour that the Morris brings. Over 150 dancers and musicians from 16 different Morris sides hosted by Chapel-en-le-Frith Morris.
Around the Town (47) 20 Jul 10:30am to 4:30pm Free Review Comments

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         Comedy          Dance          For Families          Music          Spoken Word          Street Theatre          Visual Arts          Other Events

 For Families

SUMMER SONGS! - New Mills, Newtown & Thornsett Primary Choirs Family Friendly
Choirs from three High Peak primary schools - New Mills, Newtown and Thornsett - will be singing and performing their favourite summer songs for everyone’s pleasure. Some solos and lots of actions to entertain and enjoy.
Pavilion Gardens – Promenade (33q) OpenStreetMap 9 Jul 6pm to 7pm Free, Ages 3+ Review Comments

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         Comedy          Dance          For Families          Music          Spoken Word          Street Theatre          Visual Arts          Other Events

 Music

THE BLUES TRAIN - Friends of Buxton Station Family Friendly
An evening of blues music on the 19:08 train from Manchester and then at Buxton Station from approximately 20:15.
Buxton Station (114) OpenStreetMap 9 Jul 8:15pm to 9:30pm Free Review Comments(3)

CLUB ACOUSTIC AT THE FRINGE - Club Acoustic
A Fringe regular since 2012, Club Acoustic is proud to present a feast of outstanding local musical talent in a showcase of songs and music from our regular performers. Free entry, no tickets. Come along!
Underground at The Old Clubhouse (21) OpenStreetMap 17 Jul 8:15pm to 11pm Free Review
Further information: buxton.club.acoustic@gmail.com Comments

The Occasional Band

IRISH & AMERICANA SONGS AND TUNES - The Occasional Band
Returning to the Cheshire Cheese pub for a second year, local three-piece The Occasional Band plays Irish and Americana songs and tunes on guitar, concertina/mandolin, and fiddle, with lots of vocals. It will be an occasion not to miss!
The Cheshire Cheese (93) OpenStreetMap 5 Jul 8:30pm to 11pm Free, Ages 18+ Review
Further information: timnewton2001@gmail.com Comments

Adrian Lord

MUSIC FROM SKY BLUE PIANO - Adrian Lord Family Friendly
Join Cheshire composer and pianist Adrian Lord, to hear him perform pieces from his uplifting and joyful Sky Blue Piano album. Recorded at Crear Studios on the inspirational Scottish west coast. ‘Unpretentious and from the heart.’ Music Web International
Buxton Methodist Church – Church (06a) OpenStreetMap 6 Jul 1pm to 1:45pm Free Review
Further information: adrianlordpiano.com Comments

NASHVILLE TO BUXTON - The Allen Buxton Express
An evening of high-energy music, original material and covers from Mark Allen, coming in from Nashville, and Peter Buxton, coming in from Buxton! (New Writing)
RedWillow (115) OpenStreetMap 19 Jul 9:30pm to 11:30pm Free, Ages 16+ Review Comments(1)

ST LUKE’S SINGS - Saint Lukes Family Friendly
The children of Saint Luke's Primary School will share their love of singing and performing. The choir is a non-audition choir open to all our older children - most join. Our children love to share their enjoyment of singing with everyone; do come along and let us brighten your day.
Pavilion Gardens – Promenade (33q) OpenStreetMap 19 Jul 1:30pm to 2:30pm Free Review Comments

STORMIN' BLUES - Sweet Suzi and the Herding Catz Blues Band
The Catz have had three Buxton Fringe Award Nominations and this year have teamed up with Sweet Suzi who will blow you away. Suzi is flying in from New York as part of a mini tour. Inducted into the US Blues Hall of Fame, Suzi and the fellas will present non-stop energy! (New Writing)
RedWillow (115) OpenStreetMap 12 Jul 9:30pm to 11:30pm Free, Adult themes, Ages 18+ Review Comments(1)

SUMMER THYME - Serpentine Community Farm Family Friendly
Free event. Open air (shelter in polytunnel if rainy) early afternoon acoustic set amongst Serpentine Community Farm's raised beds and gardens. NoJoKe (ukulele trio) will sing and play for us. Come early for mocktails and hot drinks. Stay later to see what's growing.
Serpentine Community Farm (107) OpenStreetMap 14 Jul 2pm to 3pm Free Review
Further information: serpentinecommunityfarm@gmail.com Comments

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         Comedy          Dance          For Families          Music          Spoken Word          Street Theatre          Visual Arts          Other Events

 Spoken Word

JIMMY ANDREX PAMPHLET LAUNCH - Jimmy Andrex
A pamphlet with no title? Come and listen to Jimmy Andrex read his poetry. It might make you laugh. It’ll hopefully make you think. The jokes are all stolen, but only from the best and he’s good to his mother. (New Writing)
Scrivener's Bookshop (11) OpenStreetMap 20 Jul 2pm to 2:30pm Free, Limited capacity, Ages 15+ Review Comments

Buxton Museum and Art Gallery

MEET THE EXPERTS - Buxton Museum and Art Gallery Family Friendly
Drop in for free lunchtime talks by museum and heritage specialists. Highlights this year include talks on the Tutbury and Staffordshire Hoards, the servants at Chatsworth and the redevelopment of Buxton Crescent. You can pick up a programme at the museum, the Fringe Information Desk or from the museum website.
Buxton Museum and Art Gallery (07) OpenStreetMap 9-12 & 16-19 Jul 1pm to 2pm Free Review Comments(1)

REMEMBER PETERLOO! - Buxton Radical Readers
On 16th August 1819 tens of thousands assembled peacefully in St Peter’s Square, Manchester. After 15 minutes of ill-disciplined assault by armed cavalry, many lay dead and injured. The events inspired writers - including Shelley. Hear some responses - both bitter and defiant - as the 200th anniversary approaches.
Green Man Gallery – Workshop Room (86b) OpenStreetMap 20 Jul 6pm to 7pm Free Review
Further information: the Gallery, thegreenmangallery.com or 01298 937375 Comments

credit: Dan Osborne

STORYTELLING AT HIGH PEAK BOOKSTORE - Ian Gregory Family Friendly
Four original stories set in the beautiful Peak District. Dramatic but also thoughtful, these tales draw on the rich local history of the area and focus on ordinary people doing extraordinary things. (New Writing)
High Peak Bookstore and Cafe (30) OpenStreetMap 13 Jul 2pm to 3pm Free Review Comments

relax...

WHISPERS IN THE GRASS - Creeping Toad Family Friendly
A breeze blows through the hay, a bumblebee buzzes, sun warms old meadows in the valley and we settle into an ease of stories and poems. Join the Creeping Toad team for a day (or a bit of it) drawing inspiration from the fields and wide skies of the valley. (New Writing)
Dove Valley Activity Centre, Longnor SK17 0PR (116) OpenStreetMap 9 Jul 11am to 4pm Free, The Centre is 8 miles south of Buxton, Ages 10+ Review Comments

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         Comedy          Dance          For Families          Music          Spoken Word          Street Theatre          Visual Arts          Other Events

 Street Theatre

BUXTON CARNIVAL - Buxton Fringe/Buxton International Festival Family Friendly
The town’s summer festivals join forces to celebrate landmark anniversaries. Look out for our special Carnival of the Animals float - the result of a project involving local primary schools. Thanks to the Well Dressing and Carnival team for organising this highlight in the town’s calendar. #Fringe40.
Around the Town (47) 13 Jul 2pm to 4pm Free Comments

FRINGE @ 5 - Buxton Fringe Family Friendly
An early evening Buxton tradition. Whatever entertainment we can rustle up - songs, stories, comedy or drama. A chance to taste before you buy. Check at the Fringe Information Desk for what is happening. Performers - book your slot at the Desk. It’s the best promotion you can do. #Fringe40.
Pavilion Gardens – Bandstand (33a) OpenStreetMap 8-12 & 14-20 Jul 5pm to 5:30pm Free Comments

FRINGE SUNDAY - Buxton Fringe Family Friendly
Join us for our annual picnic and party in the park. Buy some Derbyshire ice cream and we’ll provide the entertainment. There will be belly dancers, magic, music, song plus fun and games. Free balloons, badges and postcards! Mingle with Fringe stars and tweet away - #Fringe40.
Pavilion Gardens – Bandstand (33a) OpenStreetMap 7 Jul 2pm to 4:30pm Free Comments

THE SHAKESPEARE JUKEBOX - Buxton Drama League Family Friendly
New year, new location, same entertainment value. Follow our strolling players to their new home, outside the Conservatory on the Promenade in the Pavilion Gardens. Choose a scene from the playlist, make a donation to charity, and marvel at what follows! Nine times Fringe Award Winners.
Pavilion Gardens – Promenade (33q) OpenStreetMap 5-7, 12, 14, 17 & 19, 20 Jul 6:15pm to 7:15pm Free Review Comments(1)

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         Comedy          Dance          For Families          Music          Spoken Word          Street Theatre          Visual Arts          Other Events

 Visual Arts

credit: Rachel Slaney

2019 ART EXHIBITION - Burbage Art Group Family Friendly
Exhibiting on a Sunday for the first time, Burbage Art Group offers an exciting array of watercolours, oils, landscapes, collages, wall-hangings and sculptures, receiving a Fringe Visual Arts Nomination in 2018. The show includes cakes, refreshments and children’s quiz. Beginners are welcome at the class which meets on Wednesday evenings.
Burbage Institute, Nursery Lane, Buxton SK17 6UL (53) OpenStreetMap 7 Jul 11am to 4pm Free, Part of Buxton Art Trail Review
Further information: 01538 266 220 Comments

Acts of Making, The Green Man Gallery

ACTS OF MAKING - The Green Man Gallery Resident Artists Family Friendly
From the seed of an idea to a finished work of art, a fascinating exhibition exploring the creative process. Through painting, mixed media, photography, textiles, print making and text, the artists examine acts of making in the visual and performing arts and the inspiration found in the forces of nature.
Green Man Gallery (86) OpenStreetMap 3 Jul 6pm to 8pm, 4-24 Jul 10:30am to 5:30pm Free Review
Further information: the Gallery, thegreenmangallery.com or 01298 937375 Comments

BAT2019:The Buxton Biennale (credit: mmandbstudio.co.uk)

BUXTON ART TRAIL 2019: THE BUXTON BIENNALE! - Buxton Art Trail Family Friendly
The multi-award-winning Buxton Art Trail presents its fifth Buxton Biennale. An eclectic mix of contemporary and traditional art, craft and events by amateur and professional artists from Buxton and beyond. Exhibitions, workshops and events happening at venues throughout Buxton. Pick up the BAT brochure and map and take the trail!
Around the Town (47) 6, 7 Jul 10am to 5pm Free Review
Further information: www.buxtonarttrail.com Comments(1)

Janet Mayled - Buxton Market Day

THE BUXTON SPA PRIZE EXHIBITION 2019 - The Buxton Spa Prize
An exhibition of artwork inspired by the beautiful spa town of Buxton and created partly on location. View a huge range of work in a variety of styles including all prize-winning artwork. Vote for your favourite in the People's Choice Award to be entered into our prize draw.
Green Man Gallery – Ground Floor Gallery (86a) OpenStreetMap 3-24 Jul 10:30am to 5:30pm Free Review
Further information: the Gallery, thegreenmangallery.com or 01298 937375 Comments

The Crescent by William Cowen, c.1850

A CELEBRATION OF THE CRESCENT - Buxton Museum and Art Gallery Family Friendly
The Crescent was the fashionable centre of Georgian Buxton – a fine hotel where visitors could take the waters and dance the night away. This exhibition celebrates the redevelopment of the Crescent by showcasing fascinating pictures from its past.
Buxton Museum and Art Gallery (07) OpenStreetMap 3-6 Jul 10am to 5pm, 7 Jul noon to 4pm, 9-13 Jul 10am to 5pm, 14 Jul noon to 4pm, 16-20 Jul 10am to 5pm, 21 Jul noon to 4pm, 23, 24 Jul 10am to 5pm Free, Part of Buxton Art Trail Review Comments(1)

THE DERBYSHIRE OPEN 2019 - Buxton Museum and Art Gallery Family Friendly
Since 1982 the Derbyshire Open has attracted amateur and professional artists of all ages competing for a range of prizes and a place in the museum collection. Now in its 38th year, the resulting exhibition is the highlight of our summer programme.
Buxton Museum and Art Gallery (07) OpenStreetMap 3-6 Jul 10am to 5pm, 7 Jul noon to 4pm, 9-13 Jul 10am to 5pm, 14 Jul noon to 4pm, 16-20 Jul 10am to 5pm, 21 Jul noon to 4pm, 23, 24 Jul 10am to 5pm Free, Part of Buxton Art Trail Review Comments

credit: Ali Quas-Cohen

FRINGE40 - 40 YEARS OF BUXTON FRINGE - Buxton Festival Fringe Family Friendly
Thanks to the foresight of previous trustees, the Fringe has a substantial physical archive of material going back to 1980 when the first Fringe took place. Here we share some fascinating artefacts - programmes, flyers, badges, photos, beer mats - that trace a history of the first 40 Fringes. Memories!
Green Man Gallery (86) OpenStreetMap 3-24 Jul 10:30am to 5:30pm Free Review
Further information: the Gallery, thegreenmangallery.com or 01298 937375 Comments(1)

Rondane, Norway

MOUNTAIN AND LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY - Geoff Shoults Family Friendly
Winner of the 2017 UK Mountain Photograph of the Year, Geoff Shoults has always lived in Buxton and takes his inspiration from the moors and woodlands of the Peak District, other mountain areas of the UK and the winter landscapes of Arctic Norway.
Jo Royle Outdoor (113) OpenStreetMap 3-6 Jul 9:30am to 5:30pm, 7 Jul 10am to 4pm, 8-13 Jul 9:30am to 5:30pm, 14 Jul 10am to 4pm, 15-20 Jul 9:30am to 5:30pm, 21 Jul 10am to 4pm, 22-24 Jul 9:30am to 5:30pm Free Review Comments

Discover the Smiles

SMILE - Lindsey Piper Family Friendly
Lindsey Piper’s art installations, Smiles, includes a welcome on the bridge as you enter Buxton. Then find her Tower of Smiles in the town centre. Finally, look up into the architecture to discover the Wandering Smile as it moves around the town during the Festival.
Around the Town (47) 3-24 Jul 10am to 10pm Free Review Comments

Surface design by Michelle Hart

TAKE TEN@2 - Take Ten Artists
Ten very different visual artists and makers from the Peak District and Staffordshire Moorlands, all with links to Leek School of Art. Showing 2D and 3D work: painting, illustration, drawing, printmaking, textiles, ceramics, sculpture, jewellery. Refreshments available - donations to local charity.
2 Rock Terrace, Buxton, SK17 6HN (112) OpenStreetMap 5 Jul 6pm to 8:30pm, 6, 7 & 13, 14 Jul 11am to 6pm Free, Part of Buxton Art Trail, Ages 6+
Further information: mariej_keane_55@yahoo.co.uk Comments

DREAM in the most unexpected trials.

UNTITLED, THE DEEP SLEEP - Hampton-Studio Family Friendly
Untitled, The Deep Sleep is a performance installation where I share with the audience one of the most intimate experiences – sleep.
Pavilion Gardens (33) OpenStreetMap 5-9 Jul 7:30pm to 11:30pm. Town Hall Piazza (28) OpenStreetMap 10, 11 Jul 7:30pm to 11:30pm. Pavilion Gardens (33) OpenStreetMap 12 Jul 7:30pm to 11:30pm. Town Hall Piazza (28) OpenStreetMap 13-15 Jul 7:30pm to 11:30pm Free Review Comments

VISIT PAULA’S PAD - Paula Hobdey Family Friendly
I have an eclectic collection of paintings, all original. Subjects and sizes vary. Most are acrylic but also mixed media and collages plus some decorated glass pots. Plenty of variety! The studio is just off Macclesfield Road. Look for the balloons! Children welcome. Refreshments available.
9 Wye Head, Buxton SK17 9AG (95) OpenStreetMap 5-7, 12, 14, 15 & 19-21 Jul 10am to 5pm Free, Part of Buxton Art Trail Review Comments

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         Comedy          Dance          For Families          Music          Spoken Word          Street Theatre          Visual Arts          Other Events

 Other Events

chair Keith Savage

#FRINGE40 AWARDS - Buxton Festival Fringe
As we approach the last few days of the biggest Buxton Fringe join us at our annual awards event where we celebrate the excellent, the inspiring, the moving, the hilarity that made #Fringe40 so special. The panel has submitted its decisions! Drinks and nibbles from 1.30pm; Award-giving from 2pm.
Green Man Gallery – Ground Floor Gallery (86a) OpenStreetMap 21 Jul 1:30pm to 3pm Free
Further information: the Gallery, thegreenmangallery.com or 01298 937375 Comments

BOOK SWAP - The Springs Family Friendly
It's back! The most relaxed Fringe40 event. Find us opposite the entrance to Waitrose in Buxton's Spring Gardens’ shopping centre. Choose a book; sit down and read it or take it home. Bring a book that you've finished with and leave it on a shelf for others to enjoy.
The Springs Shopping Centre (38b) OpenStreetMap 3-5 Jul 9am to 5:30pm, 6 Jul 8am to 5:30pm, 7 Jul 10am to 4pm, 8-12 Jul 9am to 5:30pm, 13 Jul 8am to 5:30pm, 14 Jul 10am to 4pm, 15-19 Jul 9am to 5:30pm, 20 Jul 8am to 5:30pm, 21 Jul 10am to 4pm, 22-24 Jul 9am to 5:30pm Free Review Comments

BUXTON FRINGE LAUNCH PARTY - Underground Family Friendly
Join us for the official launch of the 2019 Buxton Festival Fringe at Underground's festival hub above The Old Clubhouse. Catch preview performances from across the Fringe, mingle with the stars and help us toast the 40th Buxton Fringe! No booking required - just come along!
Underground at The Old Clubhouse (21) OpenStreetMap 2 Jul 8pm to 11:45pm Free Review
Further information: underthefringe.com Info: 020 8144 0070. Comments

Rainbow pebbles for a rainbow day

BUXTON GAY PRIDE PICNIC - Stone and Water Family Friendly
Everyone is welcome to join our annual celebration of the LGBTQ+ community of the Peaks. Bring a picnic for an afternoon of light-hearted silliness and determined delight. Fabulous summer hats are invited and why not bring a cake to join our Buxton Big Gay Bake Off?
Pavilion Gardens – Swimming Pool Lawns (33n) OpenStreetMap 20 Jul 2pm to 5pm Free Review Comments

CHELMORTON VILLAGE FESTIVAL 2019 - Chelmorton Festival 2019 Family Friendly
A week of family-friendly activities and events including: flower festival in the Church (15th-21st); Burbage Band concert in the Church (18th); tractor run and dog show (20th): cream teas garden party (21st). Look out for the scarecrows through the village! For full details pick up a programme from the Fringe Information Desk.
Chelmorton Institute, Chelmorton SK17 9SH (80) OpenStreetMap 15-18 Jul 9am to 9pm, 19 Jul 9am to 5pm, 20 Jul 9am to midnight, 21 Jul 9am to 5pm Free, chellyfest@outlook.com for more information
Further information: rjbarjay@btinternet.com Comments

Suitcase Circus

HIGH PEAK COMMUNITY ARTS 40TH ANNIVERSARY TEA PARTY - High Peak Community Arts Family Friendly
After 40 years, High Peak Community Arts ask: ‘Do you take sugar?’ Be welcomed to the Tea Party by the Mad Hatter, March Hare and Alice with FREE cakes and drinks served in our Anniversary Tea Service. All welcome - especially anyone who has taken part in the past!
Turner's Memorial (117) OpenStreetMap 7 Jul 2pm to 4:30pm Free
Further information: alison@highpeakarts.org Comments

back to top Diary Venue Map Follow these links to jump to a Category:

         Comedy          Dance          For Families          Music          Spoken Word          Street Theatre          Visual Arts          Other Events