Newcastle Fringe Festival isn’t just a stage – it’s a creative crucible. Delivering new work has long been a core mission of the festival, and this year we’re proud to present 24 premieres across theatre, comedy, music, immersive experiences, and family adventures.
Over the years, we’ve been privileged to witness original performances take their first breaths on our stages before going on to national and international festivals, critical acclaim, and wider audiences. These aren’t touring shows arriving fully formed – they are fresh, bold stories being shaped live in Newcastle, giving audiences a front-row seat to the thrill of creation.
From Cathy Crowley – Tripping up that Hill and I HATE MEN As Read By Men to Tales by the Fireside: Folk Horror Trilogy, Once Upon a Time…, Maktub, Two Brothers, A Gum Tree on Summer Road and beyond, the 2026 program demonstrates the festival’s proud legacy as a platform for risk-taking, innovation, and the next generation of Australian performance.
By attending, you’re not just discovering your next favourite show, you’re supporting a festival that nurtures artists, sparks creativity, and champions stories that can go anywhere.
March 14 – 29
newcastlefringe.com.au
