The Dundee Fringe, taking place at the Keiller Centre from 13–22 September 2024, promises an eclectic mix of performances and events, showcasing a broad range of talents across theatre, comedy, music, storytelling, and workshops.
The Dundee Fringe launched in 2021 for a ten-day event, and is now hosted annually. Here are some highlights of what’s in store during this year's festival:
Theatre and Performance
The festival kicks off with "Maybe This Time" (13–15 September, 16:00), a touching exploration of love in its many forms, told through a series of intimate stories. Later, "HELLCATS" (13–15 September, 20:30) transports audiences to 17th-century England, where suspicions of witchcraft spiral in a world of secrets and rumours.
Also on offer is "From Jute to Joysticks" (14–15 September, 16:05), a contemporary play reflecting Dundee's post-industrial transformation, and "Someday" (14–15 September, 17:35), a whimsical tale of family, music, and elephants in the fridge.
Other theatre offerings include "The Screaming Over Dunluth" (15–16 September, 19:00), a chilling horror tale set in a mysterious town, and "Upstaged" (18 September, 19:15), a darkly comedic thriller about a ruthless prom queen.
For something unique, "Renfield" (16–17 September, 19:15) presents the unsettling descent of Dracula's disciple, while "Grave" (20 September, 19:15) will have audiences gripped by a spooky tale set in a desolate graveyard.
Comedy and Family Fun
For those looking for light-hearted entertainment, the festival delivers in spades. "Chatterbox" (14–15 September, 18:45) is a one-woman comedy show that reflects on the labels we’re given in childhood and how they persist into adulthood, while "Leslie Bloom Solves A Murder" (14–15 September, 20:15) blends silliness and detective fun.
Fans of panel shows won't want to miss "Imaginary Porno Charades" (14–20 September, 22:10), a lively and outrageous charade competition.
Family audiences will be delighted by "Poppy's Wonderful World of Bubbles" (14–21 September, 13:00), a bubbly scientific adventure filled with explosive experiments.
The ever-popular "Grimm's Fairer Tales" (14–15 September, 14:40) invites young audiences to become part of the action with interactive storytelling, while "Buckets of Blood: Fairy Tales Not For Kids" (14–15 September, 20:45) offers a darker, more adult take on the Brothers Grimm's original tales.
Music and Storytelling
Music lovers will be enchanted by Edenbank (15 and 22 September), a Dundee-based acoustic duo offering heartfelt and raw songwriting, while "Instrumentalisms" (18 September, 20:30) is set to deliver a mesmerising solo guitar performance blending jazz standards and improvisation.
For storytelling enthusiasts, there’s a wealth of options. "Virtual Nonsense Tour of Dundee" (15 September, 17:30) provides a humorous and fictionalised tour of Dundee, while "Legend of the Turnipman" (20 September, 19:00) shares a horror comedy about the cursed Count Gilbert, also known as the Turnipman.
Workshops and Experimental Performances
Workshops such as "BLETHER: A Scots Language in Performance" (16 September, 14:00) offer a chance to engage with Scots language in a creative environment, and David Colligan’s Improv Characterisation Workshop (17–19 September, 14:00) helps actors develop their improvisational skills.
For something more experimental, don't miss "Philosophy Storytime: Erotic Tales of and for Lovers of Wisdom" (18–19 September, 20:45), where audiences are taken on a sensual journey exploring the intersection of philosophy and desire.
Unique Shows and Fringe Experiences
Fringe wouldn’t be complete without its quirkier offerings. "Deeptime Atomic Waste Pleasure Party" (20–21 September, 20:15) is an experimental show that combines techno beats and queer hedonism with an ecological message about burying nuclear waste. Also, "Kabarett DysUtopia" (19–20 September, 20:30) offers a satirical musical commentary on the absurdity of modern life.
For a blend of circus and cabaret, "Tango: The Pain-Proof Man" (20–21 September, 18:00) will thrill with an electrifying display of daring physical feats, while "GROTTO" (20–21 September, 20:45) provides an offbeat, hilarious look at a legendary figure in rehab.
The Dundee Fringe offers a dynamic and diverse programme that truly has something for everyone. Whether you're seeking laughter, thrills, or thought-provoking performances, this year’s festival promises to be an unforgettable experience.
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