Fringe
Also called the fringe, fringe theatre
Fringe theatre is small-scale, often experimental work staged outside the major commercial and subsidised theatres, often in studios, pubs and pop-up spaces.
The name comes from the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which began in 1947 when companies that had not been invited performed alongside the official festival.
UK and US usage
In the UK, fringe theatre means small independent venues such as pub theatres, in London usually outside the West End. In the US, the nearest equivalent is New York's Off-Off-Broadway.
Last updated 4 Oct 2026
Related terms
Take it further
Train with working professionals
Knowing the words is a start. Book into live classes, get self-tape feedback from working actors and follow a plan built for you.