Performers urged to secure place in 2026 Buxton Fringe programme

Performers hoping to be featured in the printed programme for the 2026 Buxton Fringe are being urged to act quickly, with the deadline set for Sunday 19 April.

The Fringe programme remains a key guide for audiences planning their visits, and with nearly 200 events already registered, organisers are expecting a busy and exciting year. Events are also listed online and via the free Buxton Fringe App, but inclusion in the printed programme is a major boost for visibility.

Comedy leads the way

Comedy is already the festival’s largest category, with more than 80 entries so far — 20 more than this time last year.

Highlights include packed comedy weekends from Den of Laughs at the Lee Wood Hotel, while long-running managed venue Underground returns for its 21st year with a mix of new talent and established names, including Kate Butch, Rob Rouse, and Tom Wrigglesworth.

Other venues across Buxton will also host a wide variety of stand-up and comedy performances, ensuring there’s something for every taste.

Theatre and music programme expands

Theatre and music are also shaping up to be major highlights of the 2026 Fringe.

Audiences can look forward to a diverse theatrical programme, including:

• A Punk Opera at St Mary’s Church
• Titanic: The Last Hero and the Last Coward at the United Reformed Church
• Pocket Pirates, a Gilbert and Sullivan-inspired production at St Anne’s Community Centre

Music lovers will be equally well catered for, with performances spanning jazz, folk, world music and community ensembles. Highlights include jazz violinist Ben Holder, Manchester Recorder Orchestra’s 25th anniversary celebrations, and Orchestra Day hosted by Peak District Music Centres.

Something for everyone

Visual arts, spoken word and interactive events also feature strongly, with many first-time performers joining the line-up. Organisers say the 2026 Fringe offers one of its most diverse programmes yet, with events taking place across Buxton and beyond.

The printed programme will be released in early June and celebrated at a launch event at Buxton Working Men’s Club on Saturday 6 June (7–9pm).

During the festival itself, audiences can also enjoy free promotional events, including Fringe Saturday at the Pavilion Gardens Bandstand on 18 July.

Get involved

As a volunteer-run charity, the Fringe relies on community support. Opportunities include distributing programmes, helping at the Information Desk, becoming a Fringe Friend, donating, or joining the team of reviewers.

Fringe Marketing Officer Stephanie Billen said:

“We’re truly excited by this year’s diverse line-up and the number of venues involved. Now performers need audiences to support them — Fringe events are affordable and sometimes free, so there’s no excuse not to enjoy what’s on offer this July.”

For more information on how to take part or attend, visit the Fringe website.