Suzann McLean MBE, CEO/Artistic Director of Theatre Peckham, talks to us about Peckham Fringe 2025, which is set to deliver an exciting line-up of nearly 30 shows, running from May 1 to June 6 across Theatre Peckham and Canada Water Theatre. Curated by the local community, this year’s festival continues its mission of amplifying diverse voices and providing a platform for emerging and established artists alike.
From bold solo performances like Reparations by Maryam Garad to immersive spoken word pieces like Selorm Adonu’s Brother’s Keeper, the festival offers a dynamic mix of theatre, dance, comedy, and more. Themes such as gentrification, immigration, and gendered expression take center stage, promising thought-provoking experiences for audiences.
Peckham Fringe runs from May 1–June 6, 2025. For the full programme and to book tickets, visit Theatre Peckham’s website today!
You’re bringing Peckham Fringe 2025 to Theatre Peckham and Canada Water Theatre; what can you tell us about the festival?
This year’s Peckham Fringe is a celebration of community-driven theatre, running from 1 May to 6 June 2025. We’re expanding the festival to include Canada Water Theatre alongside our beloved Theatre Peckham, meaning even more artists and audiences can be part of this experience. The line-up is as diverse and exciting as ever, with nearly 30 shows covering everything from theatre and dance to spoken word and comedy. It’s a festival that truly reflects the spirit of Peckham and the incredible talent in London.
How has the festival evolved since its inception, and what makes this year’s line-up particularly special?
Over the past four years, Peckham Fringe has blossomed into a key cultural event in London’s artistic calendar. What began as a platform for artists to showcase their work free from the constraints of traditional theatre has evolved into a celebrated festival that gains increasing recognition. What sets this year apart is the variety of themes explored in this year’s festival, ranging from personal identity to social justice. It reflects the urgent conversations happening in our society today and this makes Peckham Fringe 2025 an essential destination for anyone who wants to experience innovative and thought-provoking theatre.
Peckham Fringe is known for amplifying underrepresented voices. Can you share how this year’s programme reflects that mission?
At its core Peckham Fringe provides a platform for underrepresented voices. This year’s festival embodies that spirit, giving space for artists to celebrate their diversity, take risks, and tell stories that matter. We have curated a festival that will bring to light stories that are often overlooked, from powerful narratives addressing race and identity to innovative performances that challenge societal norms, every show is an opportunity to amplify voices that deserve to be heard.
What role does the local community play in shaping the festival, and how does this collaboration influence the final line-up?
The local community plays a crucial role in shaping Peckham Fringe. Our Ambassadors, comprised of passionate community members, are instrumental in curating the festival each year. They provide invaluable insights into what resonates within the community, ensuring that the final line-up is reflective of local interests. This collaboration creates a sense of ownership and pride among residents, it is this relationship that enriches the festival and amplifies the voices of our community.
With so many standout productions in the programme, are there any particular shows or themes you’re especially excited about?
There are so many standout productions that I am excited about. One that captures my attention is Street Smart, by July Namir which is a moving one-woman show that explores the life of a single mother from Peckham who is a maths genius navigating the complexities of class, race, and survival.
It’s a powerful narrative that speaks to the resilience of those often overlooked. Additionally, Meet the Kids by Desiri Okobia presents a gripping coming-of-age drama that delves into the lives of four teenagers fighting to reclaim their voices.
Another production to watch is Drive by Joe Flynn, which follows four college friends from an East London estate as they form a band, confronting their pasts and redefining their futures through music. There is so much to see and every production in our line-up will be entertaining and also spark meaningful conversations.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to experience Peckham Fringe 2025?
Just do it! I encourage everyone to book. The artists you’ll see at Peckham Fringe are telling stories that matter and they’re exploring themes that are relevant and urgent. The productions are fresh, bold, and exciting. Whether you’re a theatre lover or just looking for something different, there’s something in the festival that will speak to you.
By attending, you’re not just enjoying incredible performances, you’re also getting to see the next wave of theatre makers, so every pound spent on a ticket is an investment in the future of theatre.
