The Camden Fringe

LINEUP:

A JOURNEY TO THE WEST | 30 July  | 7.30pm - Theatre

"A Journey to the West" reimagines the classic tale through a modern lens, framing Chinese youths’ “growing pains” as a metaphorical quest. Centering on struggles between familial expectations and self-identity, it employs Sichuan Opera face-changing to symbolize fractured personas. 

Cultural identity clashes with global horizons are visualized through contrasts of traditional opera and digital projections in London, while Gen Z’s awakening to responsibility unfolds via allegorical trials. Breaking conventional theater, the play integrates improv comedy mechanics—actors pivot plotlines based on real-time audience reactions, transforming the performance into a collective “psychodrama.” 

This interactive approach mirrors the chaos and self-discovery of studying abroad. Ancient motifs collide with electronic beats and operatic vocals, dissecting “Chinese-style growth” with sharp contemporary resonance. By deconstructing heritage into a multimedia odyssey, the play bridges generational divides, turning the journey westward into a mirror for modern existential turbulence.

(BOOK HERE)

UPROAR | 1 August | 7.00pm - Theatre

Uproar is an interdisciplinary  performance exploring the right to protest and the power of collective action. A journey from injustice to hope, powered by unity. Blending rebellious dance, unique sonorous costumes, and archival audiovisuals, it honours the Latin American tradition of using music and dance as political expression. Created in response to the deaths of  civilians in Peru (2022-2023) during protests, Uproar sheds light on Peru's ongoing crisis—rooted in unresolved colonial issues like discrimination, racism, and classism. It raises awareness of peaceful protests and invites audiences to sound together in a collective call for social justice, fostering empathy and solidarity in facing these global challenges. This original project by Latin American immigrant artist women in the UK aims to inspire social justice, and present new strategies for cohesion and resilience through art.

(BOOK HERE)

THE LOST LOMBI | 1-3 August | 4.00 pm & 8.30pm - Theatre

The Muse Group Theatre Company is thrilled to announce the return of its sell-out production,

The LOST Lombi.

Directed by PB Whistle, The LOST Lombi delves into the lives of three women connected by blood, spanning over three generations. One yearning. One running. One with a calling. Each must go on a journey if they are to find peace and resolution within themselves.

To date, a significant number of children in the DRC are used as combatants, transports, spies, chefs or sexual slaves within the armed groups and militias. The LOST Lombi lifts the lid on the recruitment of child soldiers, while exploring identity, the generational trauma of war, the necessity of belonging and the importance of forgiveness.

Showcasing the exceptional talents of a diverse and dynamic cast, each bringing their unique perspectives to the stage, their performances are nothing short of extraordinary, as they breathe life into complex characters and convey the raw emotions that lie at the heart of the play.

Writers, RB8, a female duo whose mission is to bring stories that inspire social change and bridge cultural divides, are thrilled that by popular demand The LOST Lombi returns.

The Muse Group Theatre Company invites you to come together and experience the magic of The LOST Lombi.

(BOOK HERE)

ANY SUGGESTION, DOCTOR? The Improvised Doctor Who Parody | 2-3 August | 7.00pm & 6.00pm

Arriving in Camden for the very first time, Any Suggestions, Doctor? The Improvised Doctor Who Parody is landing at The Playground Theatre for an unforgettable adventure.

Based on the BBC hit sci-fi show Doctor Who, this loving parody improvises a brand new episode of the show based on audience suggestions. Want to journey to the future to meet a new race of cyber warriors? Board the Titanic before it meets the iceberg? Travel to a planet called AAAAARGGGHH!? We can take you anywhere, any-when!

Accompanied by a live radiophonic workshop that improvises a musical score alongside the action, as well as sound effects and general wibbly wobbly noise making, the audience gets to decide when, where and who they will travel with, watching an entirely new story unfold before their eyes.

Founded by a group from York, Any Suggestions Improv is an independent troupe of improvised comedy performers brought together by a common love of comedy, storytelling and melodrama. This is improv with a joyful heart and a tongue firmly in its cheek, hoping to give the audience not just an hilarious night out, but a fantastically memorable adventure.

(BOOK HERE)