Last year, I made myself a promise. I missed most of the GM Fringe Festival, I was too busy with other things and it seemed that the festival had been and gone before I knew it.
This year, I’m being much more organised. I’ve already got a couple in my diary.
For the uninitiated, the Greater Manchester Fringe is a grass roots festival that takes place throughout July, run by volunteers and features the best of our alternative scene. Everything from comedy to art, dramatic theatre to exhibitions, it’s getting bigger and better every year.
One of the best things about the festival is just how accessible it is. The venues aren’t always obvious places to hold theatre, or dance, and this year they include Allotment Bar and Apotheca, The King’s Arms, Miners Arts and Music Centre, Montpellier’s and Nexus Art Café, The Wonder Inn and the innovative Ziferblat.
So, what am I looking forward to watching this year? I must admit I’m torn between some that clash, but here are those that have caught my eye.
Follow/Unfollow
This is probably a little close to home – the tale of vlogger Ryan Marten, with hordes of avid fans, playing on his looks rather than talent. Manager Dee wants to make a new star of one of his fans Chloe who never sought fame.
Egriega!
Stroke survivor, singer/songwriter, author and artist, Arthur Kadmon performs filthily funny, tender, inspirational music. This looks incredible – and I happen to recognise the handiwork in this photo.
Phill Jupitus as Porky the Poet
Returning to the festival, Phill first performed in 2013, and will be performing at The King’s Arms in Salford. A long term fan of his, this is absolutely on my ‘must see’ list.
The Idiot’s Guide to Kink
Intrigued by 50 Shades of Grey? This is an alternative look at the world of BDSM with Ros Ballinger, and what’s more, this is one of the free events on as part of the festival. Another must see for me.
North by North West via Replacement Bus Service
Ahh. The replacement bus. I don’t think I’ve ever found a journey on one less than disconcerting. This sketch show is a two for the price of one, Gary Lunt with Into the Mild, one man’s quest for the wild wilderness on the outskirts of Wigan, and Matthew Gabrielli with Another Round a story of pub quizzes, falling in love, and being abducted by Aliens.
Green Eggs & Glam
Burlesque at the Dancehouse Theatre from Green Eggs & Glam – Vaudevillian fun for one night, with a tongue in cheek and a little nudity from the amazing Lady Wildflower and Heidi Bang Tidy – two ladies I absolutely love. And it’s an excuse for us ladies to get our glam on.
Being Frank
A screening of the documentary about the incredible Chris Sievey. Also on my must see list.
Faulty Towers: The Dining Experience
Fancy a little interactive comedic theatre? This award winning crowd pleaser could just be up your street, especially if like your waiters a little Spanish and your dinner a little… improvised.
In truth, I could go to several things every night in July, but portals and time travel have yet to be created. What I can recommend is clearing your diary a bit, and going through and booking on everything that takes your fancy – and keep an eye on the website, more and more is being added to the listings all the time.
Don’t do what I did last year, and miss out. You’ll only kick yourself.