Montreal Fringe returns with indie theatre, comedy, and drag
The city's 35-year-old festival runs through June 21 with affordable shows across the Plateau and free concerts at Fringe Park.
The day's top stories, food & events — every morning at 7. Unsubscribe anytime.
The Montreal Fringe Festival is back for its 2026 run through June 21, bringing the countercultural theatre movement that's animated the Plateau since 1991 to stages across the neighbourhood and free concerts at Fringe Park on the corner of St-Laurent and Rachel.
Among this year's highlights: "An Autistic Priest and a Dog," a storytelling-based comedy about religious trauma, neurodiversity, and existential dread performed alongside the artist's dog. The show was an audience favourite at PEI Fringe in 2024 and a finalist for Best of Fringe Vancouver last year. It runs June 11–20 at Théâtre Sainte-Catherine (264 Ste-Catherine E.).
According to longtime Executive and Artistic Director Amy Blackmore, Fringe is a verb — not just a series of shows, but a movement rooted in independent arts. The festival's commitment to affordability (tickets are cheap) and free programming (Fringe Park) keeps the event accessible to the broader city.
The full program spans dance, comedy, drama, drag, storytelling, and more. Check montrealfringe.ca for the complete lineup and to book tickets.