Wandsworth Arts Fringe festival returns June 9-25

Wandsworth council’s flagship arts festival returns from June 9-25, with 17 jam-packed, belly-laughing, awe-inspiring days of art, dance, music, theatre, comedy, film, circus and street performance.

As part of the council’s commitment to supporting artist development, and creating meaningful experiences for local audiences, the Wandsworth Arts Fringe (WAF) grants help artists, makers and community groups realise their creative visions for the festival.

For 2023, the council has distributed £36,617 among 20 organisations, including homegrown creatives and internationally-acclaimed artists, for projects taking place over this year’s festival.

The WAF grants are funded directly by the council, with a maximum award of £2,000 per project.

Festival-goers are encouraged to try something new, from awe-inspiring circus by Zirkus Morsa to verbal gymnastics from performance poet Alice d’Lumiere.

Contemporary circus show Tipping Point by Zirkus Morsa mixes acrobatics and balance board in a performance that pushes balance to the limit.

Speaking Out and Fitting In! by Alice d’Lumiere is a performance of striking poetry, disarming comedy, and a celebration of gender fluidity from a part-time transwoman playfully establishing her voice.

Alice d’Lumiere said: “Nothing quite rivals the creative energy generated by a live festival and I think this year is going to be particularly vibrant.

“I can’t wait to bring my own little show to WAF.

I hope it raises some smiles, questions some preconceptions and maybe even helps bring a little extra joy; which is something we all need more
than ever.”

Picture: Art of Fashion Wrapping collection by Fée Uhssi at Nine Elms Pavilion Picture: Ambient Jade