Spring Grove Fringe

Spring Grove Fringe is a United Kingdom-based amateur community drama group founded over 30 years ago. It is located in the Spring Grove area of Kingston, with members drawn from the wider surrounding region. Registered as a charity under number 1150982, the organization promotes understanding and participation in theatre within the community.

History and Activities

Since its inception, Spring Grove Fringe has staged nearly 100 productions, including a diverse repertoire ranging from annual pantomimes performed every February to Victorian melodrama evenings, Shakespearean plays, Isherwood’s Cabaret, and adaptations of Chaucer. The group typically presents four shows annually, most of which run for two evenings and often include a supper as part of the event experience. Additionally, the group holds occasional play-readings and workshops to engage members and audiences alike.

One of the hallmark events is the annual pantomime, which invites extra local involvement and is notable for its lively character portrayals and fast-paced comedic style. For example, the February 2025 production was a new adaptation of Alice in Wonderland by Tracey Rogers featuring classic characters such as the Queen of Hearts, White Rabbit, and the Mad Hatter.

Community Impact and Charitable Work

Spring Grove Fringe has been an active contributor to local and national charities, donating over £30,000 in the past decade. The beneficiaries of these donations are selected by the group’s members, reflecting the organization’s commitment to supporting broader community causes beyond the arts.

Publications

The group publishes an occasional newsletter titled On the Fringe, which provides updates on their productions, community activities, and other news relevant to members and supporters.

Recognition

Spring Grove Fringe is formally recognized as a charity by the Charity Commission for England and Wales, underscoring its not-for-profit status and community-oriented mission.

Spring Grove Fringe continues to be a vibrant cultural presence in Kingston, fostering theatrical arts participation and community engagement through its diverse programming and charitable initiatives.

[1] https://www.springgrovekingston.co.uk/sgf3.php [2] https://www.sgfkingston.org.uk [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1150982&subid=0 [4] https://www.sgfkingston.org.uk/on-the-fringe/ [5] https://www.kingstononline.co.uk/present-laughter-by-spring-grove-fringe-19th-20th-may-2023/