Barnstaple Fringe brings in the sales for entertainment extravaganza

Barnstaple Fringe Theatrefest organisers have been looking back on a hugely busy and rewarding four day feast of performance from almost every genre imaginable to end June with a bang.

Well-known venues around the town centre as well as open air locations such as Barnstaple Library Square and Castle Mound hosted some 180 performances from 55 individual productions, showcasing something for every taste during.

Above: Some of the many Barnstaple Fringe Theatrefest volunteers. Credit: Barnstaple Fringe

Audiences could enjoy everything from street theatre and comedy from Edinburgh Fringe performers to drama both serious and not-so-serious, music, magic, dance and children’s entertainment, to name just some of the genres and themes at the 19th instalment of the Fringe.

Above: Sam Gilroy rehearses for her one-woman show BellyFlop at Barnstaple Fringe. Credit: Green Mind Photography

Organisers said across the weekend the festival had 884 people buying tickets for venues.

A total of 2,799 tickets were sold and 76 performances of 20 productions took place in alt-spaces - outdoors around Barnstaple and in unusual or non-traditional venues like in cafes, in the library and in Barnstaple museum.

Above: A world of mystery and enchantment awaited for fringe audiences. Credit: Green Mind Photography

Jess Burford, festival co-director, said: “The festival is a true community effort.

“We're really grateful to everyone who made it possible, from local businesses who provided venues, sponsored, provided equipment, or supported in other ways, to the performers, volunteers and audience members.

“The whole event was a real testament to what the local community can do and it was great to see Barnstaple buzzing with energy and performance.”

Above and below: Fringers could see everything from dance to drama and comedy at this year’s Barnstaple Fringe. Credit: Barnstaple Fringe/Green Mind Photography