And just like that, another Greater Manchester Fringe is over! We’re still buzzing after an incredible month of theatre, comedy, music, and magic. We can hardly believe we’ve packed away the bunting after hosting over 75 different shows and more than 200 performances across our amazing city and its boroughs.
To every single person who bought a ticket, performed on a stage, volunteered their time, or ran one of our brilliant venues – thank you. You are the reason this festival happens, and this year felt more special than ever.
We were absolutely blown away by the standard of new writing on display. It’s always our mission to provide a platform for new voices, and the talent this year was outstanding. Initiatives like the WriteForTheStage Prize for New Writing continue to uncover incredible scripts, and it was a genuine privilege to see powerful new plays like the family drama “Adult Orphans” and the coming-of-age story “Boys We Knew” come to life on our stages.
This year, there truly was something for everyone. Our programme was bursting with variety, from the brilliantly dark comedy of “One Hundred Percent” to the award-winning and thought-provoking “Wink.” We saw brand new musical theatre shine with “Karma” in Stockport, and we loved seeing how much you all enjoyed the unique, boundary-pushing shows. It was fantastic to see audiences getting stuck into solving the mystery of “Dr Black is Dead” and being so moved by the innovative storytelling of “Missed Calls.”
What makes us proudest is seeing the Fringe become a space for important, inclusive stories. Shows like the razor-sharp comedy “Fallen Bodies” from two disabled creatives and “Happy As Pye,” which beautifully integrated British Sign Language, are exactly what the Fringe is all about: offering a stage for everyone.
A huge shout-out has to go to our incredible venues. From established theatres like 53two and The Kings Arms to the intimate rooms at The Eagle Inn and even the platform at Stockport Railway Station, you are the lifeblood of our festival. Your willingness to open your doors to creativity is what makes the GMFringe so unique.
But our biggest thanks go to you, the audience. Your energy and enthusiasm filled every room. You took a chance on new shows, you gave standing ovations, and you created an unforgettable atmosphere for our performers.
We are so proud of the talent, passion, and community spirit that defines the arts scene here. Thank you for making GMFringe 2025 one for the history books. We’re off for a little lie-down now, but we won’t be resting for long. We’re already cooking up plans for 2026, which will be our 15th year! So get ready, because it’s going to be our party year. See you then!
All the best,
The Greater Manchester Fringe Team
