New Gate Fringe Festival 2019

22 July 2019

The New Gate Fringe Festival 2019 was officially launched by the Mayor, Councillor Michaela Boyle, on Tuesday 9th July in Londonderry’s historic Guildhall. Joining Mayor Boyle was Mark Browne, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Executive Office, alongside representatives from culture, the arts, tourism, and the community sector in the wider Derry City and Strabane District Council Area.

Speaking at the Fringe Festival launch event, Mark Browne commented, “New Gate Fringe Festival is growing year on year and is becoming a mainstay of the local festival calendar. It is great to see the diversity in the events and activities on offer and, as part of the Urban Villages Streets Alive project, the Fringe Festival really helps to connect groups and local residents through the arts.

“I am also delighted that the planned Newgate capital investment by the Urban Villages Initiative will further enhance this festival by adding community and event space to the Arts and Cultural Centre in the Fountain area providing welcoming inclusive space for residents and visitors.”

Now entering its third year, the New Gate Fringe Festival offers an edgy and impressive programme, encompassing a unique blend of music, dance, drama, poetry, exhibitions, art, film, and topical debate in sixteen venues across the city and cross border area.  Derek Moore, Chair of the North West Cultural Partnership, noted that the New Gate Fringe Festival has exceeded all expectations and continues to grow year upon year, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the city, and establishing itself as one of the highpoints of the summer. 

With a wide range of events for all ages, highlights from this year’s programme include the Rangers Soccer School, the hilarious play ‘Affluence’, the unmistakeable Kevin McAleer, the annual Tartan Walk, and the spectacular Walled City Tattoo. 

The New Gate Fringe Festival who received funding under the Ulster-Scots Agency's Community Festival Programme, runs from Monday 22^nd July to Thursday 8^th August.  While many events are free to attend, space is limited and early booking is advised.  For more information on the festival, contact Kyle at New Gate Arts and Culture Centre on 02871 265 869 or email kyle@newgatearts.com