Newcastle Fringe Festival Celebrates 10 Years of Cultural Magic
Newcastle's beloved Fringe Festival marks its milestone 10th anniversary this March, showcasing an unprecedented 235 shows featuring 97 acts and 612 artists across 15 venues from 20-30 March.
From humble beginnings in 2016 with just 21 shows in five venues, the festival has grown exponentially, nearly hitting the 10,000-attendance mark in 2024. Founded by Phil Aughey after his transformative experience at Edinburgh Fringe in 2014, Newcastle Fringe Festival has become NSW's fastest-growing grassroots regional arts festival.
This year's program spans diverse genres, from comedy and theatre to music and family entertainment. Comedy legend Jean Kittson headlines with her new show at Souths Merewether, while Logie winner Rob Carlton brings his Adelaide Fringe hit "Willing Participant" to town. Rob Carlton just won Overall Winner Theatre & Performance at Perth’s Fringe World.
The festival kicks off with "Fringe Feast - Unleash your appetite" on 15 March, a free family event featuring local dining and preview performances. Venues stretch across Newcastle, from Hamilton's Kent Hotel and Young People's Theatre to Bernie's Bar and The Royal Exchange, with special facilities for kids' shows at Souths Merewether and cabaret at Flamingos Live in Lambton.
Family entertainment includes ten dedicated children's shows featuring the award-winning The Giant Balloon Show and Bubble Show in Space. Music lovers can enjoy everything from punk-cabaret septet Ruffians to the Hunter Singers youth choir, while cabaret enthusiasts have 20 sizzling acts to choose from.
The festival's commitment to artist success remains strong, with performer earnings reaching over $125,000 in 2024. Tickets range from $10 to $43, with most shows priced between $25 and $30, making world-class entertainment accessible to all.
Visit www.newcastlefringe.com.au for the full program and tickets. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned Fringe-goer, this year's anniversary celebration promises to be Newcastle's most exciting cultural event of 2025.
