2026 DISTRICT FRINGE FESTIVAL

Aimee Dastin's coming-of-age drama captures the psychological cost of chasing a Division 1 dream.  By NICOLE HERTVIK

This dark comedy about funeral rites is an experience of mourning, grief, and laughter through tears. By MARY V. HOLIMAN

A reading of a new play explores what it means to be Black and a woman in the entertainment industry. By MARY V. HOLIMAN

The staged reading offered poignant and engaging theater, and impressive performances showcased the play’s enormous potential.  By AILEEN JOHNSON

This new musical seems destined to leap from sold-out staged readings to full production.  By HANNAH ESTIFANOS

Rex Daugherty’s personal musical narrative brings to mind the grit and conviction of Bruce Springsteen. By JOHN STOLTENBERG

An in-your-face puppet show skewers a roster of social norms with razor-sharp humor and creative artistry.  By KENNY NEAL

Each skit gets sillier than the last, so that by the end, it feels like a sleepover party of punch-drunk teenagers.  By LAURIE SARA OLIVER

Theresa Cunningham delivers a gripping autobiographical journey through abuse, survival, and the search for healing. By NICOLE HERTVIK

Kicking off District Fringe year two, the winner of the 2023 Capital Fringe Festival is a sure bet for a good time. By NICOLE HERTVIK

The playwright takes us back to her teenage angst in the early aughts, and her music-cued storytelling cuts deep. By JOHN STOLTENBERG