The 2025 Sydney Fringe programme features more than 460 events and more than 2,900 artists across four precincts, and ten festival hubs, this September.
This year’s event also marks a new chapter, under the leadership of the recently-appointed CEO, Patrick Kennedy.
Patrick brings more than 15 years of experience in the arts and cultural sector. He’s had senior roles at leading international agencies and producers. Plus, he’s been Executive Producer of Patrick Kennedy Theatre Machine since 2009, winning international acclaim.
“I’m thrilled to be stepping into the role of Sydney Fringe’s next CEO, and I am dedicated to advancing the festival’s vision to be celebrated as one of the world’s leading fringe festivals, placing independent artists and cultural creators at the heart of Sydney,” Patrick says. “I look forward to driving organisational sustainability, fostering a values-driven team culture, and delivering transformative experiences for audiences and artists alike.”
“Over the past two months the Board has undertaken a rigorous global search for our next CEO,” Sydney Fringe Chair Of The Board Maree Taylor says.
“The process attracted outstanding candidates from across Australia and around the world – a testament to Sydney Fringe’s reputation as one of the world’s leading independent arts organisations. I’m delighted to share that, with the unanimous support of the Board, Patrick Kennedy has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Sydney Fringe.”
'Triptych'
“Patrick is an accomplished leader and internationally lauded theatre maker with a proven track record in championing independent arts, strategic direction and organisational growth. His rare blend of artistic leadership, sector insight and commercial acumen makes this a confident and exciting evolution for the organisation as we continue to shape Sydney’s cultural ecosystem and advocate for a more inclusive, resilient and thriving independent arts sector.”
Sydney Fringe will kick off with a free street party at The Rocks, transforming the historic laneways and heritage buildings with hidden performances and live music. Plus, every Tuesday to Sunday, ‘SIDESHOW’, a line-up of immersive and experiential shows performed in pop-up spaces.
Highlights of 2025 include ‘When Night Comes’, from Broad Encounters, internationally acclaimed shows from renowned storytelling duo Wright & Grainger, the reopening of the Eternity Playhouse, showcasing cutting-edge works in the Off Broadway Hub, and the return of the Queer and First Nations Hubs.
The Off Broadway Hub will welcome back artists and audiences to one of Sydney’s most beloved performing arts venues. . . Showcasing bold and innovative shows across theatre, music, contemporary dance, and cabaret. There’s Lewis Major’s triple bill ‘Triptych’, fresh from a world tour. . . ‘The Ghana Road Show’ blending circus, arts, music and dance. . . And Kate Bush’s music reimagined by vocal ensemble Eklektika in ‘Kate Bush Unmoored’.
'When Night Comes' – Image © Jeff Busby
The Yagali First Nations Hub returns for a second year at PACT Centre For Emerging Artists. Highlights include a live reading by Adam Nobilia from his upcoming memoir ‘Australia’s Least Wanted’. . . And ‘First Sounds Showcase’, featuring a stacked line-up of emerging and established First Nations talent.
Qtopia Sydney is the home of the Queer Hub, amplifying the work of LGBTQIA+ storytellers. Highlights include comedy-variety show ‘Queen Out (Verb)’ from LA-based drag duo Lorelei and Annie Biotixx. . . And musical comedy show ‘Let’s Unpack That’, by comedians Kate Wilkins and Nick Harriott, featuring songs produced by award-winning Australian musician Montaigne.
The Cabaret Hub finds a new home, this year at Marrickville Town Hall with a month-long programme. In 2025, audiences can check out ‘Upside Down Fantasyland’, following Troy Rogers and his journey from the shadows of his dark past into the future, and ‘La Dolce Vita…Down Under’, a heartfelt cabaret by Illeana Piptone intimately recounting her journey from Italy to Australia.
Those who like to move can head to the Dance Hub at Sydney Dance Company’s Neilson Studio, featuring stunning contemporary dance work by local and international artists. A highlight is ‘For You To Know And Me To Find Out’ by New Zealand artist Liv Tennet.
In 2025, Sydney Fringe will present the inaugural open access literature festival, Parramatta’s Lit!, with an expansive programme across multiple venues. It’ll feature panel discussions, keynote speeches, live readings, masterclasses, workshops, and a zine and book fair.
“The 2025 programme is our most expansive yet and we’re thrilled to be bringing artists and audiences together across more venues and precincts than ever before. From the return of major hubs, to the highly anticipated reopening of the Eternity Playhouse, this year’s programme pushes boundaries and spotlights new voices, inviting Sydneysiders to rediscover their city through unforgettable experiences in every corner.”
Check out the full programme.
Sydney Fringe Festival 2025 is on from 1-30 September.
