Wigtown Fringe: A Spotlight on Local Talent and Beyond

The second annual Wigtown Fringe is set to be a vibrant celebration of music, theatre, poetry, storytelling, and film, showcasing both local talent and performers from across Scotland. Running alongside the renowned Wigtown Book Festival from September 27th to October 6th, this year's Fringe promises a diverse and engaging program.

Musical Highlights

Singer-songwriters Stacey Joy from The Rhins and Norman Paterson from Ayr will grace the stage with their unique musical styles. Norman's repertoire includes songs inspired by St Kilda, The Iolaire Disaster, crofting, and the herring industry, while Stacey will transport audiences to the sun-drenched landscapes of the Western USA and the mystical jungles of South America.

Poetry and Performance

Kroovan Wings, a visual poetry performance, pays homage to the majestic trees that grace the Galloway Forest Park and the Southern Upland Way.

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Jazz Afternoon Tea

Jazz enthusiasts can indulge in a delightful afternoon tea accompanied by the mellow sounds of Take Two, featuring Jan Winder on piano and Gaynor Barradell on tenor sax and vocals, with possible guest appearances from local musicians.

Stories, Songs, and Dialect

The Clifford Movement will close the festival with a captivating blend of stories, songs, dialect prose, and visual projections, celebrating the rich landscape and characters of the past. Their music spans from melodies to soulful ballads, with hints of Americana, trad jazz, and Balkan influences.

Theatre and Film

Theatre lovers can catch the critically acclaimed "I Believe in One Bach," a dark psychological drama set to the sublime music of Bach's B Minor Mass.

For younger audiences, Hazel Stevens will read from the enchanting Poppy storybooks, followed by interactive activities like making paper flowers and decorating cakes. Daiva Ivanauskaitė-Brown will also be at Wigtown Library with "Dragon Tale," a captivating story where songs and stories become a girl's armor against a dragon.

Two documentary films will also be screened: "From the Darkness Into the Light" explores the controversial life of James Ramsay MacDonald, the first Labour Prime Minister, while "Tim Stead: Magician with Wood" delves into the innovative creativity of wood sculptor and furniture designer Tim Stead.

A Warm Welcome

Festival director Matt Kitson invites everyone to join this relaxed and fun-filled celebration, emphasizing the opportunity to discover and appreciate the diverse talents of performers from both the local region and beyond.


Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to experience the vibrant cultural scene at the Wigtown Fringe!