Fringe 2026

The Market Theatre held it’s first ever Fringe Festival as part of Hitchin Festival in 2025. It’s back this July, bigger and better than ever!

Scroll down for all the details of what’s on and to book tickets…

GESIBBIAN
3rd July – 7.30pm

Blending folk and jazz influences, Gesibbian’s music combines twisty melodies and delicious harmonies with atmospheric and intriguing songs.

£20 (Students £15)

BOOK HERE

THE ROYAL STORYTELLER
5th, 12th & 26th July – 11am

A must for the very young and specifically aimed at 3-8-year-olds, this charming entertainment is not to be missed. The Princess of Everywhere greets the children and then introduces them to her lovable puppet pets. First, Scorch the Dragon who must be handled with care, and then, as he pops out of his playbox, the mischievous Robbie Rabbit. With their help the Princess then opens the great book of stories and reads the children a tale from one of the classics. Interrupted on a regular interval by Robbie who is determined to be involved.

Running time 40 minutes. Tickets are £10 each

BOOK HERE

HITCHIN UNSCRIPTED
7th July – 7.30pm

After a fantastic launch in April the new scratch night in Hitchin dedicated to monologues and duologues returns. Hitchin Unscripted is a space for actors to test work, take risks, and own the stage.

No set, No safety net. Just the performer, a spotlight, and a room full of people ready to listen.

Whether you’re a creative or simply a lover of theatre, everyone is welcome!

PLEASE NOTE: Purchasing a ticket does not grant you a performance slot. If you are interested in performing please email hello@jakealun.com

Doors Open at 7:00PM
Starts at 7:30PM

BOOK HERE

SPEAK UP
(comedy, music, spoken word)
10th July – 7.30pm (doors 7pm)

Speak Up is a night of banging performances from some truly brilliant comedians, musicians, poets and spoken word artists. 

Line-up includes: Maureen Onwunali • Catie Wilkins • Althea Grace • Abdullah HS Erikat • Dan Hill • Sharlin Jahan • Pro • Lauren Jennings & Victoria Serra • Rose Beynon

Tickets £12 + fees

All proceeds will be split between Medical Aid for Palestinians and mutual aid initiatives. 

Show up for humanity and enjoy a great night out!

BOOK HERE

AN EVENING OF CLASSICAL AND SPANISH GUITAR FAVOURITES
11th July – 7.30pm

’Exquisite-bravo!”  (Guitar Magazine) “Stunning sounds and musicality and a brilliant technique.  An enthralling evening.  (The guardian) “Maestro Jennings transported us to serene, dynamic and beautifully exotic landscapes.”  (The Herald SA)
Solo works include:

* J. S Bach;
* F. Tarrega;
* Rodrigo;
* A. ABarrios.

Tickets £18.50

BOOK HERE

HITCHIN JAZZ JAM SPECIAL
16th July – 7.30pm

A special edition of the monthly jam, featuring L’Esprit du Jazz. Led by accordionist Karen Street, the band explores French musette, Latin and Tango.

All tickets £15 or £13 in advance.

BOOK HERE

FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY COMEDY
17th July – 8pm

Join us for another night of belly laughs as some of the hottest up-and-coming comics on the circuit tear it up with their amazing sets, and maybe try out some new material! Join us at our regular home, the capacious Market Theatre, Hitchin!

PLEASE NOTE : Tickets are £7.50 … all this comedy for less than the price of a trip to the coffee shop!

Please add ‘foronenightonlyhitchin@gmail.com’ to your safe-senders list. Just in case we need to get in touch with you – we don’t want to be flushed into spam! And we never, ever share data!

Please be aware that FONO may be a filmed event and we have a photographer on-site. (primarily for the acts review and promo usage). Attendance is consent to being filmed.

BOOK HERE

STATE OF PLAY IMPROV
18th July – 8pm

A hilarious evening of games and scenes, all made up on the spot from your suggestions.

(doors open 7.30pm) 16+

All tickets £10 plus booking fee.

£20 (Students £15)

BOOK HERE

JAKE YAPP’s CORNERSHOP SHOWDOWN
23rd & 24th July – 7.30pm

Britain’s brightest new game show for 1976! Join Jake Yapp as he hosts a gleefully shambolic game show set in a 1970s corner shop.

Tickets £12

BOOK HERE

CAROLINE OWEN STRINGS ON FIRE
25th July – 7.30pm

Caroline Owen is an electrifying performer who takes audiences on an unforgettable musical journey. “Strings on Fire” delivered by a violin superstar.

Tickets £18 in advance,

£25 on the door.

BOOK HERE