As the Durham Fringe Festival marks its fifth anniversary this July, Durham School is pleased to reflect on its enduring involvement in this dynamic and much-admired cultural event. What began in early 2021 as an inspired post-pandemic initiative has since developed into a flourishing festival, now featuring more than 110 productions across nine venues in the heart of Durham City.
The Dunelmian Community at the Heart of a Festival
In 2021, the School played a central role in the initiative to reinvigorate the cultural and commercial life of the city. The project was conceived by Dr Stephen Cronin—longstanding drama volunteer at the School—who assembled a dedicated team of volunteers, including staff, Old Dunelmians, parents, and members of the wider community. Together, they launched a four-day performing arts festival, selecting a number of local venues and laying the foundations for what would soon become a cherished annual fixture in the city’s cultural calendar.
Five years on, the Durham Fringe has grown into a summer highlight, hosting over 110 shows and nearly 270 performances across a variety of locations, including the Assembly Rooms Theatre, the City Theatre, a stretch tent on Palace Green, and several other notable venues.
Durham School—and, in more recent years, the wider Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation—has remained a committed partner throughout. The School has offered its expertise, volunteers, and institutional support as the festival has expanded. Notably, the School’s Event Manager, Mrs Debbie Bennett, worked late into the night during this year’s celebrations to create an enormous cake marking the festival’s fifth anniversary.
Opportunities for Pupils and the Community
Durham School’s involvement has extended well beyond strategic partnership. In 2024, pupils staged Cepacia, a powerful and moving drama exploring life-limiting illness—a transformative experience both artistically and personally for those involved.
More broadly, the festival offers pupils annual opportunities to contribute as volunteers. Many current and former pupils assist with front-of-house duties or join the technical teams. For example, Freya M, a Year 11 pupil in Lodge House, served on the technical crew at the Assembly Rooms Theatre, supporting approximately 30 productions during the five-day festival. Her experience exemplifies the practical skills, confidence, and sense of purpose that young people gain through their participation.
“It has been a wonderful experience and great fun,” said Freya. “I would recommend it to anyone at School who is thinking of getting involved next year.”
The Realisation of a Vision
At the heart of the Durham Fringe Festival lies the original vision of Dr Stephen Cronin Hon OD. His idea has been brought to life with the help of a committed group of volunteers, including Peter Lotts OD, the Festival’s Technical Director, whose expertise has been instrumental in turning Dr Cronin’s vision into a thriving reality.
“It has been incredible to see so many young people involved behind the scenes this year,” said Peter. “From front of house to technical crews, their energy, commitment, and willingness to learn have been vital in shaping the Durham Fringe into the Friendly Fringe. They bring fresh ideas, help to create a welcoming atmosphere, and ensure everything runs smoothly. In most venues, one will find a current or former pupil of the Foundation, and I truly do not know how we would manage without them.”
Durham School is proud to have played a role in the Festival’s journey and remains committed to its continued development. We look forward to many more years of creativity, community, and culture in the city of Durham.
Happy fifth birthday, Durham Fringe Festival!