Sydney Fringe Sideshow
21
Aug
18
Oct
Comedy, Music, Theatre + more

Sydney Fringe Sideshow

Get immersed and be amazed at Sydney Fringe Sideshow. Discover an artsy hangout of music, performance, and laughter.
When
Thursday,
21 Aug 2025
Saturday,
18 Oct 2025

This September, prepare to be captivated by an electrifying atmosphere that promises a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Traverse the cobbled streets of The Rocks and surrender to the temptations of the night and discover the weird, the wonderful, and the spectacular at Sideshow! Returning this year with an incredible line-up of pop-up venues, unbelievable performances, and an unforgettable experience in the heart of the city.  

Wander the historic laneways and you might stumble into When Night Comes, a multi-sensory experience by the creators of A Midnight Visit, or reimagined mythic tales told through music by award-winners Wright & Grainger (Orpheus, Helios, and Grandpa Poseidon). Participate in Dear Stranger by Tilda Cobham-Hervey, an installation that invites connection, and check out a surprise full-length Fringe show at Sideshow Wildcard. This is not a show you book, it’s a night you build. Choose your path and follow the music. It’s unexpected, unrepeatable, and utterly Fringe. Immersive theatre, live music, cabaret and more in the heart of one of Sydney’s most iconic precincts. It’s your night. Make it unforgettable.

Sideshow Program

                                                                        

Thu 4 Sep, 6-8.30pm
Sydney Fringe Festival Opening Night
Step into the magic of Sydney Fringe as the 2025 Festival opens with a street celebration like no other. For one night only, The Rocks transforms into a swirling spectacle of fire, feathers, and fun.
Find out more
Fri 22 Aug-Sun 27 Sep, 6.15pm, 7.15pm and 8.15pm
When Night Comes

Step into a decadent world where tantalising theatre and cocktails collide. This intimate immersive experience by Broad Encounters is theatre reimagined: provocative, playful, and utterly unforgettable.

Book now
Thu 4-Sun 28 Sep, 8.30-9.40pm
Orpheus (Wright & Granger)
An award-winning love story told through soaring acoustic music and masterful spoken word. Orpheus is part gig, part myth, and all heart. 

Rated 5 stars by GLAM ADELAIDE which said 'I laughed, I cried, I loved it'.
Book now
Thu 4-Sun 28 Sep, 6.30-7.45pm
HELIOS (Wright & Grainger)
An international award-winning modern re-telling of an ancient myth, HELIOS is a story about life and the invisible monuments we build to it. 

Rated 5 stars by THE LIST which said, ‘A much-needed reminder of the irresistible power of stories to unite us’.
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Sun 7, 14, 28 & Sat 13, 21 Sep, 2-3.05pm
Grandpa Poseidon (Wright & Grainger)
A tender tale of change, connection and seaside gods. Grandpa Poseidon is a heartwarming kids show that blends storytelling, songs and post-it notes into a warm, funny show about feeling lost and finding your feet again.
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Sat 13, 20 & 27, 10am-3pm
Dear Stranger
Write a letter to a stranger and receive one in return. Created by Tilda Cobham-Hervey, this immersive activation is a quiet, powerful exchange of words, connection, and kindness, delivered by our friendly Posties. 
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Sat 6, 13, & 20 Sep, 12pm
Sideshow Wildcard
Full-length Fringe shows hit the Rocks Square throughout the Festival! No clues, no line-ups, just a one-off surprise from the wider program. Theatre, music, comedy? Anything goes. Come curious, leave delighted.
Book now