Running from June 6-9, the 5th annual festival features dozens of unique performances and a few new things

The 5th Annual Denver Fringe Festival kicks off this week with a dizzying array of performances and events that will make it the biggest year yet. Alongside the usual lineup of shows ranging from standup, theatrical and solo performances, Denver Fringe has a few new things this year to check out.

Free-For-All

This is a new program that will feature pop-up and street performances throughout RiNo during the festival. These will include circus, magic, magic, aerial, dance and more. Here’s the schedule.

KidsFringe

This is a free mini-fest for families taking place at The Denver Savoy Saturday and Sunday June 8 and 9. KidsFringe features two shows for the younger set:

The Big Bug Adventure June 8 & 9 at 10 a.m. – a story about Stripes the Caterpillar on his way to a mysterious “Glow Worm Dance Party.” He’ll need help getting there, and the kids in the audience will have a chance to jump in and participate. The Big Bug Adventure features puppetry by Katy Williams Design and original music by Ben Morris.

Sickly Victorian Rat Circus – June 8 & 9 at 11:30 a.m. – When a pair of rats are evicted from their home, they travel to a dangerous city where they find an old rocket that might be their ticket to a new place to live.  This show by Small Buns Duo features lots of physical comedy, circus elements and storytelling.

FringeART

Also new this year, the FringeART show will showcase works from Denver artists at Woods Boss Brewing and the Ironton Gallery. Since these are also performance venues, get there a little early and check out the art before the show.

Learn more

Tickets for most Fringe performances are $15, and there’s also a festival pass for $75 that’ll get you into everything you want to see.

Main Fringe Festival site

Full schedule (downloadable PDF)

OnStage Colorado coverage

Podcast interview with Fringe performer and podcaster Lauren Hance (Holy O)

Podcast interview with Fringe performer Naomi Grossman (American Whore Story)

Podcast featuring Fringe highlights and an interview with performer Jack Dawkins (Integration)