Wandsworth Arts Fringe (WAF) is set to return with an expanded program, showcasing the borough’s cultural vibrancy as part of its designation as the Mayor’s London Borough of Culture. The annual festival, now in its sixteenth year, will feature a wide array of performances, exhibitions, and interactive events across various venues in Wandsworth.
The council has awarded grants totaling £56,479 to 30 projects, reflecting the borough’s commitment to using art and culture as a tool for community engagement and social improvement. These projects span multiple disciplines, including theatre, music, dance, visual arts, and interactive workshops, aligning with the London Borough of Culture’s core themes.
Several projects focus on celebrating Wandsworth’s rich cultural heritage. “Echoes of Us,” an immersive audio trail, invites participants to explore the Winstanley and York Road Estates while listening to stories from long-term residents. “Tales of the Iron Lane,” a guided walk along the route of the Surrey Iron Railway, examines the area’s industrial history through the lens of migration.
The festival also addresses contemporary issues. “Planet Harmony,” a project by World Heart Beat Music Academy, allows young people to express their concerns about the climate crisis through music. “Economic Possibilities For Our Grandchildren,” a performance piece by Casper Dillen and Christy Taylor, explores national identity and shared aspirations.
Health and wellbeing feature prominently in the program. The Royal Hospital of Neuro-disability will present an exhibition showcasing art created by patients as part of their rehabilitation process. “Spreading the Joy (further),” a theatre show by Group 64 Theatre for Young People, celebrates positive mental health through an interactive space journey.
Community engagement is a key focus, with projects like “Building Bonds: Community Toy-Making Workshops” by Battersea Men’s Shed offering intergenerational woodworking sessions. “Connect and Unite Through Art and Culture” aims to provide an inclusive platform for women, children, and youth to express their creativity and celebrate cultural diversity.
The festival also tackles important social issues. “Before We Were Proud,” a photography project by Steve Reeves, documents the personal histories of older LGBTQ+ community members, preserving stories from a less accepting era. “Translation,” a dance and circus show by Bertie Collective, explores queer experiences through various movement styles.
WAF 2025 continues to support emerging talent, with Putney Youth Musical Theatre offering young performers the opportunity to develop their skills through the production of “Matilda the Musical Jr.”
The diverse range of projects reflects Wandsworth’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity in arts and culture. From interactive installations to community workshops, the festival aims to engage residents and visitors alike in a celebration of creativity and local heritage.
Wandsworth Arts Fringe 2025 is scheduled to run from June 6 to June 22, with tickets going on sale from April 24. As part of Wandsworth’s year as the London Borough of Culture, this edition of WAF promises to be its most ambitious yet, showcasing the borough’s artistic talent and cultural diversity.
