Reykjavik Fringe 2025

28/05/2025 12:05

From Edinburgh’s Rebel Roots to Reykjavik’s Artistic Explosion

Fringe festivals didn’t start with permission-they started with passion. Back in 1947, eight theatre groups showed up at the newly-formed Edinburgh International Festival, uninvited but determined to perform. They set up their own shows on the fringe of the official festival and from this act of artistic rebellion, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe was born.

As more performers joined, the movement grew and by 1958, the Festival Fringe Society was established to support this ever-expanding world of unjuried, open-access performances. The idea was simple but powerful: anyone with a story and a stage could be part of the festival.

Today, the Edinburgh Fringe is the world’s largest arts festival and its rebellious spirit has inspired the creation of over 300 fringe festivals worldwide-each a vibrant, diverse celebration of creativity. From Brighton to Adelaide to Avignon, fringe festivals continue to captivate audiences with theatre, comedy, dance, drag, and much more.

Reykjavik Joins the Global Fringe Family

In 2018, Iceland joined the movement when Nanna and Jess, two theatre makers who wanted to bring a new style of performance to the city, launched the Reykjavik Fringe Festival. Scottish actor and comedian, Andrew Sim took it over in 2022. As part of the Nordic Fringe Network, Reykjavik Fringe collaborates with sister festivals across the Nordic region, bringing the international fringe ethos to the heart of Iceland’s capital.

Since its debut, Reykjavik Fringe has carved out a unique space in the city’s cultural calendar. It’s where local legends and global artists come together in an explosion of creativity-embracing everything from comedy and music to drag, pole, dance, burlesque and immersive art.

Reykjavik Fringe: One Epic Week of Live Performance

Get ready for an unforgettable experience from June 2nd to 8th, 2025. This year’s Reykjavik Fringe is set to light up 10 iconic venues across the city, including: Tjarnarbíó, National Theatre of Iceland, Kiki Queer Bar, Núllið Gallery, Iðnó … and more!

Expect a good mix of performances, including:

• Ari Eldjárn – Iceland’s top comedian returns for a one-night-only show.

• Papillon – world-class dance to leave you breathless.

• Belonging? – Six award-winning foreign-born comedians ask if they can ever really belong in Iceland.

• Almost Nordic – award-winning stand-up comedy.

• Purrlesque – a burlesque show with a twist.

• Laurie Black – synth-fueled cabaret.

• Midnight Kiki Ball – a wild night of performance and dance.

• And many more. Check out the full lineup at rvkfringe.is.

Center Hotels: Proud Supporters of Reykjavik Fringe

At Center Hotels, we’re happy to support the Reykjavik Fringe Festival, celebrating Iceland’s vibrant arts scene and the global fringe movement.

But that’s not all. This fall, we’re partnering with Andrew Sim to host an exciting series of Reykjavik Fringe Cabarets at Center Hotels venues. Expect dazzling performances, international talent and plenty of surprises. Stay tuned for more details later in the season!

Join the Celebration!

The Reykjavik Fringe Festival is a must-see for locals and visitors. Whether you’re a fan of stand-up, music, dance, or experimental art, you’ll find something to love.

Check out the full program and grab your tickets at rvkfringe.is and don’t forget to follow the festival on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

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