Fringe Theatre in Manchester and the North

Kristy Stott, Theatre Editor

Get ahead of Edinburgh Fringe with our top picks of Fringe Theatre happening in Manchester and across the North this summer.

You’ll find an eclectic selection of fringe performances – from autobiographical shows to stand-up and cabaret – all happening at our favourite intimate venues across the North ahead of their runs at Edinburgh Fringe.

Supporting explosive new work and adventurous artists is at the heart of what we do. So expect to see fresh and exciting previews, from a dynamic mix of emerging and established theatre-makers, before they head off to the world’s largest theatre festival.

Experience some of the best of Edinburgh Fringe – right here in the North – before anyone else.

Do check back regularly too. We’re updating our guide with new shows as we find them.

Our top picks

Greater Manchester Fringe 2024

Greater Manchester Fringe 2024 at The Fitzgerald, Manchester (and other venues), Until 31 July 2024 - Book now

With a fascinating programme and pleasing ticket prices, you’ll find some of the most exciting artists previewing their work here ahead of Edinburgh Fringe.

Greater Manchester Fringe Festival 2024
Image courtesy of Amy Webber/ Greater Manchester Fringe Festival.

To Watch a Man Eat at Shakespeare North Playhouse

To Watch a Man Eat at Shakespeare North Playhouse at Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot, 10 July 2024, from £5.00 - Book now

One of our hot picks for Edinburgh Fringe 2024, seize the opportunity to catch this brand-new play when it previews at the Heading North Fringe Festival.

To Watch a Man Eat at Shakespeare North Playhouse
Image courtesy of Grace Shropshire.

That’s Not My Name at Salford Arts Theatre

That's Not My Name at Salford Arts Theatre, Manchester, 11–12 July 2024, from £10.00 - Book now

Blending stand-up with spoken word and musical comedy, That’s Not My Name takes a swift swipe at psychiatry, its labels and the way our mental health system is organised.

That's Not My Name at Salford Arts Theatre
Image courtesy of Dylan Wakerly.

Lost Girl at the Kings Arms

Lost Girl at The Kings Arms, Manchester, 15–16 July 2024, from £5.99 - Book now

Happening as part of Greater Manchester Fringe, Lost Girl is a brand-new piece of theatre exploring Jewish-Arab heritage, connection and family.

Lost Girl at the Kings Arms
Image courtesy of Lauren Temple.

Pillock at Contact

Pillock at Contact Theatre, Manchester, 18–19 July 2024

Pillock is an exciting new one-man show exploring neurodiversity, the challenges of gay dating and the vulnerabilities of an actor’s life.

Pillock at Contact
Image courtesy of Contact/ Knock & Nash Productions.

Gallifrey Cabaret at HOME

Gallifrey Cabaret at HOME Manchester, Manchester, 25–27 July 2024, from £10.00 - Book now

Jump aboard for a night of cosmic drag and cabaret, all inspired by the popular TV show Doctor Who.

Gallifrey Cabaret at HOME
Image courtesy of Contact.

Look After Your Knees at Leeds Playhouse

Look After Your Knees at Leeds Playhouse, Leeds, 26 July 2024, from £1.00 - Book now

Natalie Bellingham’s new show, tackling the pain and beauty of growing older, will preview at Leeds Playhouse ahead of its month-long run at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Look After Your Knees at Leeds Playhouse
Image courtesy of Matt Rogers.