MKE Fringe

MKE Fringe

The Milwaukee Fringe Festival

Recent News

New Submission Deadline
ICYMI... Open submissions for the 2023 Milwaukee Fringe Festival have been extended through Saturday, April 15th at midnight. This week is your last chance to...
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2023 Fringe Submissions Open!
Milwaukee Fringe Submissions are open for the 2023 Festival through March 31st. Submit your show or art today! WE WANT ALL THE ART!
Read More "2023 Fringe Submissions Open!"

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The Milwaukee Fringe Festival


What is a Fringe Festival?

In the summer of 1947, eight theatre companies arrived at the Edinburgh International Festival hoping to put on their shows. When they were turned down by the larger festival, they decided to put on their own. These smaller companies literally performed on the fringe of the larger festival, and thus the idea of the Fringe Festival was born. In the time since, Fringe Festivals have sprouted up in arts-minded cities, including New York, London, Sydney, and Minneapolis.Fringe Fest Logo

Milwaukee finally added its name to the list. In August 2016 the MKE Fringe made its debut in downtown Milwaukee. Following the rich tradition of Fringe Festivals, the Milwaukee Fringe Festival is a showcase of a diverse collection of artists. From theatrical actors to painters, musicians to tap dancers, performance artists to playwrights, MKE Fringe is a joyous celebration of what makes Milwaukee’s culture vibrant and extraordinary.

Milwaukee Fringe Festival is presented under the direction of John Schneider, produced by Karen Raymond and  Katie Rhyme, and is a collaborative work with additional local arts advocates. The festival is produced under Nice Plays, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Donate to the Fringe!

We need your support to make the Fringe a reality! Every dollar goes directly to supporting the event.