fringe theatre

Productions that are anti-establishment or experimental, and performed in converted or informal venues (warehouses, pubs), in contrast to subsidized or mainstream commercial theatre. In the UK, the term originated in the 1960s from the activities held on the ‘fringe’ of the Edinburgh Festival. The US equivalent is off-off-Broadway (off-Broadway is mainstream theatre that is not on Broadway).

Less formal and expensive than conventional theatre, fringe events are held in a variety of venues: university theatres, arts centres, converted warehouses, or rooms in pubs. Notable British ‘fringe’ writers include Howard Brenton and David Hare. Fringe groups that tour the UK include Belt and Braces, Hull Truck, and Joint Stock.