17 – 19 July 2026
The Countdown Is On
It’s a record year with over 320 registered performances!
Visitors – The What’s On menu shows the events registered so far – start planning your Fringe now! Better still, download the app.
Have you picked up your printed programme yet?
(but don’t forget to check the app or website for changes – there are 18 so far)
Performers – The registration deadline for inclusion in the printed programme was Sunday 31 May 2026. Don’t worry if you missed the deadline; you can still register and be included in the website and app. To book a show look under the Performers menu above, or start here. Don’t forget to Register!
Snail Trail – Started 6 July!
A fun competition for the young at heart
A prize for the best Snail Spotter – 40 snails hidden in and around town.
Look out for them slithering in from 6 July.
Forms can be collected from and dropped off at:
Folde Dorset, Gold Hill, SP7 8JE
Shaftesbury Library, Bell St, SP7 8AE
The Potting Shed, Swan’s Yard, SP7 8JQ
The Dorset Store, 43 High St, SP7 8JE
Closing date for entries is 20 July.
1st, 2nd and 3rd Prizes are gift cards for Cranbornes of Shaftesbury.
Shaftesbury Arts Centre Preview Show
Get ready to dive into the spirit of the Fringe with an electric evening of bite-sized brilliance!
The show brings together a variety of acts from across the festival – theatre, comedy, music, spoken word, and more – in one fast-paced, joyfully unpredictable showcase.
Whether you’re a seasoned fringe-goer or just curious to dip your toe in, this is your chance to sample what the festival has to offer. Discover new talent, catch a glimpse of shows that might become your favourites, and experience the energy and creativity that makes the fringe so special.
One night. Multiple acts. Endless possibilities. Come along, try something new, and get into the Fringe spirit!
Thursday 16 July 7.30pm – 9pm
Tickets: £5 Book
Become A Volunteer For Fringe 2026
Would you like to make a difference and get involved in our town’s amazing event?
We’re currently looking for volunteers to fill roles / help in the following areas:
- Press Officer – Press releases, coordination of comms activities
- Comms Manager – keeping venues / performers /visitors in the loop
- Treasurer
If it looks like one or more of these is for you, please send a message, selecting the Get Involved option, and we’ll be in touch.
Fringe 2026 – Meet The Team
- Fringe Committee –
- Core team responsible for strategy, infrastructure, sponsorship and communications
- Cal (Chair), Rose (Vice Chair), Jonathan, Mark, Sue, Sophie, Sophia.
- Helped by-
- App and IT Support: Kevin
- Build: Ollie, James, Phil and Nick
- Creatives: Rhiain, Johnny, Robbo
- Programme: Keith
- Website: Dan
