(CANCELLED) Resurrection - The Musical
2025-09-01 | The Wanstead Curtain, Wanstead Curtain (Wanstead Methodist Church hall) Hermon Hill London E11 2AR
Apologies this event has been cancelled.
—————————
Prepare to Set Sail with Resurrection – The Musical!
Get ready for an electrifying new musical adventure where history, mystery, and swashbuckling action collide! “Resurrection – The Musical” — based on the thrilling first novel in The Buccaneers Legend trilogy — brings a legendary tale to life like never before.
Imagine a stormy night, a phantom ship emerging from the mists of the 18th century, and a single, searing lightning strike that transforms a spectral crew into four reborn buccaneers with no memory of their past. Join these captivating characters on an unforgettable, emotionally charged voyage as they grapple with their former identities, embark on a journey of self-discovery, and awaken their empathy while navigating the complexities of our modern world. They’re not just fighting injustice; they’re ultimately seeking life’s most precious treasure: life itself!
This isn’t just a musical; it’s an experience! Prepare for thrilling sword fights, a breath-taking reimagined folk music score, and a plot so rich with twists and mystery that you’ll be on the edge of your seat. Beyond the adventure, “Resurrection” delves into powerful and relevant contemporary social issues, exploring themes like mental health, gender identity and the impact of past trauma with sensitivity and depth, all woven seamlessly into its fantastical narrative.
Don’t miss your chance to witness this epic tale unfold!

Running Time: 60 mins
Age Rating: 12+
Trigger Warnings: Some Lightning Flashes & Pistol (Caps) Firing
Show website: Find out more

(CANCELLED) Screwloose Improv
2025-09-01 | The Bull, 129 High Street, Wanstead, E11 2RL
* Unfortunately this event has been cancelled *
————–
Following their sell-out, 5 star run at last years Colchester Fringe Festival… Screwloose Improv are back for another improv prison break!
Britain’s prison’s are overcrowded…. so these inmates, imprisoned for their crimes against theatre, must improv for their freedom! The Wardens the judge and you’ll be the jury in this immersive night of incarcerated carnage.
Who goes free or will they all escape again…?

Duration: 60 mins
Age rating: 16+
Content warning: adult language, humour, comedy violence

The Eve-of-Fringe Charivari
2025-09-05 19:00 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | St. Mary’s Church, Overton Drive, Wanstead, E11 2LW
The traditional way to herald Fringe season – an eve-of-fringe charivari with your host Joe Walters. It’s a delightful combination of musical styles – classical, folk, experimental and more – in the stunning surroundings of St Mary’s church on Overton Drive. Joe turns impresario for the night and brings together wonderful talents to make a joyful sound. There will be a bar in the grounds of the church.

Astronomy Viewing
2025-09-05 20:00 - 23:00 | Wanstead and Snaresbrook Cricket Club, Overton Drive, Wanstead, E11 2LW
Using telescopes view the moon, planets and stars guided by local amateur astronomers. Learn your way around the sky at night!
Planning your visit:

This is a FREE event
Telescope viewing will start at 8pm on 5 and 6 September on the pitch at Wanstead Cricket Club (Overton Drive, E11 2LW)
NB. The ground to the telescopes can be dark and uneven, so please wear appropriate footwear, use the cricket club’s allocated routes to get to the pitch and bring torches
Children must be supervised at all times

For more information, follow the North East London Astronomical Society on Facebook.

Wanstead Pottery Throwing Class
2025-09-06 10:00 - 13:00 | Wanstead Pottery, 61 Nightingale Lane, Wanstead, E11 2EY
In this introductory class you will be guided through the basics of throwing clay on the potter’s wheel.
These classes accommodate a maximum of three students. You will be taught how to:

Prepare your clay
Centre it on the wheel
Pull up the walls of your piece to create form

Please be prepared for a few disasters before you get to grips fully with the potter’s wheel, it’s perfectly normal for beginners and all part of the fun of the learning process.
Your piece will be finished, fired and glazed for you. There will be the opportunity to choose a glaze colour from the select range of studio dipping glazes. Once your piece has completed its second firing and is ready for collection you will be notified by email, approximately 6 to 8 weeks later.
The price includes all materials used during the session. A welcome email will be sent with further information ahead of your class.

Class duration: 3 hours
Suitable for: Adults and kids 11+

The Duke Street Party
2025-09-06 12:00 - 23:00 | The Duke, 79 Nightingale Lane, Wanstead, E11 2EY
Kicking Off the Wanstead Fringe Festival with The Duke’s Annual Street Party!
We’re closing the street and turning up the fun for a full day and evening of music, food, and family-friendly frolics!

Look forward to an all-Day Garden BBQ, Leytonstone Burger & Taco food trucks, Outdoor Bar serving local East London Brewing beers, Tiempo Tequila Cocktail Bar, Indoor bar open as usual, Dining reservations available – book ahead to guarantee your table.

Little Duke’s Kids Activities (12–4pm) including, Booglebeats kids entertainment, Ceramics painting with Creative Biscuit, Glitter tattoos, Design-your-own bunting, and more creative fun for the little ones!

Live Bands & DJs ’til Late
Dance the night away with non-stop music, including: Party anthems from live bands and DJs, and a special set from our house band, The Dukes of Duke, delivering indie graveyard gems, lost-loved bangers, and local Dukebox favourites.

You don’t want to miss it!

Wanstead Kinema presents: Paddington in Peru
2025-09-06 18:00 - 22:00 | Christ Church, Wanstead Place, Wanstead, E11 2SW
Join us under the stars at Christ Church Gardens for an al-fresco movie night complete with our Kinema bar and freshly made popcorn! Just bring something to sit on and something to keep warm, and maybe a marmalade sandwich for all eventualities.
Entry is from 6pm – the film will begin around 7:15 depending on when the sky is dark enough. Paddington in Peru is 1hr 45 min long.
Please come to the main entrance of the Church on Wanstead Place and follow the instructions of our friendly greeters and stewards to help everyone get a good view. You are welcome to bring snacks or a picnic but please take your rubbish home with you after the show.
Please note that admission is by advance ticket purchase. For safeguarding reasons we cannot allow unaccompanied under 16s, and parents remain responsible for their children at all times.

Contractions
2025-09-06 19:30 - 20:30 | The Wanstead Curtain, Wanstead Curtain (Wanstead Methodist Church hall) Hermon Hill London E11 2AR
Mike Bartlett’s Contractions is a razor-sharp black comedy which revels in the dark absurdities of corporate culture.
In a series of chillingly polite meetings, Emma finds her personal relationship dissected by The Manager in the name of company policy. As the inquiries become more invasive and the consequences more severe, the distinction between protocol and control begins to vanish.
With biting humour and unnerving precision, Contractions interrogates how authority cloaks itself in procedure, and the destruction wrought by systems which demand compliance over humanity.
Cast: David Martinez & Maira Vandiver
Follow Far Between Theatre on Instagram.

Astronomy Viewing
2025-09-06 20:00 - 23:00 | Wanstead and Snaresbrook Cricket Club, Overton Drive, Wanstead, E11 2LW
Using telescopes view the moon, planets and stars guided by local amateur astronomers. Learn your way around the sky at night!
Planning your visit:

This is FREE event
Telescope viewing will start on the pitch at Wanstead Cricket Club (Overton Drive, E11 2LW)
NB. The ground to the telescopes can be dark and uneven, so please wear appropriate footwear, use the cricket club’s allocated routes to get to the pitch and bring torches
Children must be supervised at all times

For more information, follow the North East London Astronomical Society on Facebook.

St Mary’s Crypt Tours - 7 Sept
2025-09-07 | St. Mary’s Church, Overton Drive, Wanstead, E11 2LW
Back by popular demand! The tour of the 1789-built crypt under St Mary’s Parish Church have become a firm favourite of the Fringe. Please note, access is via STEEP steps and through a CONSTRICTED tunnel – visitors need to be able to manoeuvre beneath a 1m-high obstruction.
Please note: each tour lasts approx. 45 mins, select starting timeslot under “tickets” below.

Wanstead Pottery - Family Hand-Building
2025-09-07 10:00 - 13:00 | Wanstead Pottery, 61 Nightingale Lane, Wanstead, E11 2EY
This class is perfect for adults and kids alike and is suitable for children from the age of six upwards.
Once made, you will have the opportunity to decorate your wonderful creation using a wide selection of brush on glazes. When your masterpiece has dried fully and completed its firing, you will be notified by email when it is ready for collection, approximately 6 to 8 weeks later.
The price is £40 per person and includes all materials used during the class. A welcome email will be sent with further information ahead of the session. If you would like to join your child and participate, please be sure to book a place for yourself as well as your child.

Class duration: 3 hours
Suitable for: Adults and kids 6+

Wanstead & Snaresbrook Walking Tour
2025-09-07 11:00 - 13:00, 2025-09-12 17:00 - 19:00 | All around Wanstead, Wanstead, London, United Kingdom
Discover the history of Wanstead village and Snaresbrook on this entertaining guided walk.
Visit interesting places and learn about interesting people connected with the area in the past. The walk starts at St. Mary’s Church (the only grade 1 listed building in Redbridge) – in Overton Drive between the Cricket Club and the Golf Club.
Stops include:

St Mary’s Church – start point
Clock Court (former Wanstead hospital)
Snaresbrook Crown Court
Christ Church
United Reform Church
The George and Dragon – where the walk ends

Details:

Duration: Approx. 2 hours
Distance: Approx. 3 miles
Tickets: FREE event but requires ticket (limit of 15 per session)

Contractions
2025-09-07 14:30 - 15:30, 2025-09-07 19:30 - 20:30, 2025-09-08 19:30 - 20:30 | The Wanstead Curtain, Wanstead Curtain (Wanstead Methodist Church hall) Hermon Hill London E11 2AR
Mike Bartlett’s Contractions is a razor-sharp black comedy which revels in the dark absurdities of corporate culture.
In a series of chillingly polite meetings, Emma finds her personal relationship dissected by The Manager in the name of company policy. As the inquiries become more invasive and the consequences more severe, the distinction between protocol and control begins to vanish.
With biting humour and unnerving precision, Contractions interrogates how authority cloaks itself in procedure, and the destruction wrought by systems which demand compliance over humanity.
Follow Far Between Theatre on Instagram.

Wanstead Book Festival presents: Joanna Pocock in conversation with John Rogers
2025-09-07 15:00 - 16:30 | The Bull, 129 High Street, Wanstead, E11 2RL
PLEASE NOTE: CHANGE OF VENUE – this event will now be upstairs at the Bull, 129 High St. *
Twenty years ago, Joanna Pocock travelled by Greyhound bus across the US. Nearly 20 years later, she repeated the journey, revisiting the same cities, edgelands, highways and motels.
In Greyhound she explores the overlapping area of place and memory as she navigates two different landscapes – an earlier, less atomized society and a current one mired in inequality and teetering on the brink of environmental calamity. Greyhound combines memoir, reportage and literary criticism, and is a moving and immersive exploration of modern day America with all its beauty, horror and complexity.
Joanna will be in conversation with Wanstead Fringe favourite John Rogers whose calling as psychogeographer has led him to explore the link between place, memory and people.
* The upstairs room at the Bull is accessible only by stairs. If this is going to cause you problems, please accept our apologies and contact us for a refund.

Let’s Make Tarte aux Pommes
2025-09-09 19:00 - 20:30 | La Bakerie, 119a High Street, Wanstead, E11 2RL
As apple season begins, get ready to bake a stunningly delicious Tarte aux Pommes, a traditional French Apple Tart that’s easier to make than you think.
We’ll start from the very beginning, showing you how to create the perfect sweet pastry. You’ll learn which apples to choose for the best flavour, how to arrange them beautifully, and the tricks for a professional-looking golden glaze.
There will be a tour of our bakery and lots of tastings! Plus, you’ll leave with a goodie bag to set you up for your baking.

The Jon Howells Jazz Trio
2025-09-09 19:00 - 21:00 | St. Mary’s Church, Overton Drive, Wanstead, E11 2LW
The Jon Howells Jazz Trio returns to the Wanstead Fringe Festival and St Mary’s Church with a performance of carefully selected Jazz Standards. Featuring the talents of Julie Walkington on bass and Claire Hirst on saxophone it’s sure to be an evening of elegant and engaging Jazz. There’s no bar at St Mary’s but you are welcome to bring your own refreshments.

Wanstead Kinema presents: The Sale (2025, 12A)
2025-09-09 19:00 - 22:00 | The Wanstead Curtain, Wanstead Curtain (Wanstead Methodist Church hall) Hermon Hill London E11 2AR
We’re delighted to present a new original British movie, from director Marcus Shepherd and producer Nick Bertram.
Heather, a single Walthamstow mum in her 50s is cashing in on her house in the village, dreaming of a new life by the sea. But when no-one wants to buy it, she fears her home of the last 20 years is haunted.
Written and set in Walthamstow, with a talented local cast, this very entertaining thriller features some stellar performances, some comic moments, and a supernatural surprise.
The Point Bar will be open from 7pm, and the screening will start around 7.30pm. After the film, we will have a Q&A with the director and producer.

An Evening with Jack the Ripper
2025-09-09 19:30 - 21:15 | The Bull, 129 High Street, Wanstead, E11 2RL
Whitechapel. 1888. Between August and November a series of women are brutally murdered. The identity of the killer remains a mystery. Until now…?
It’s the greatest unsolved case in criminal history. One that continues to confuse and confound. Generating argument, debate and a host of different theories.
Who was he?
What was his motive?
And how did he get away with it?
‘An Evening with Jack the Ripper’ will delve into the sordid realms of Victorian London in an attempt to finally unmask the man with the blackest of hearts who preyed upon the most vulnerable members of society.
Award winning producer and broadcaster Steve Morgan has captivated thousands of people on his celebrated ‘Ripper walks’ through the east-end of London, where he retraces the steps of the notorious killer through the streets he stalked. Now he has adapted the story for the stage and invites you to spend an evening in the company of Jack the Ripper… and live to tell the tale!

Suitable for: age 12+
Running time: Two 40min acts with 20 min interval
Further information: www.rippershow.co.uk
Follow on: Facebook | Instagram

“As a former refuge for highwaymen, blaggards and thieves, Wanstead is a place steeped in criminal folklore and history. I can think of no better setting to recount the tale of Jack the Ripper and the lives of his victims as we seek to unmask the identity of the killer once and for all.”

Creative Biscuit Ceramics
2025-09-10 16:00 - 18:00 | The Duke, 79 Nightingale Lane, Wanstead, E11 2EY
After School Ceramics Club with Creative Biscuit at The Duke

Looking for a fun and creative after-school activity? Join us for a colourful ceramic painting session with Creative Biscuit! Kids can choose to paint a cup, plate, or bowl (one item per painter) – all for just £12. Extra ceramics will be available to purchase if they want to get even more creative!

Expect a fun, relaxed crafting atmosphere, kids’ menu available and burger deal & happy hour for the grown-ups.

Perfect for winding down after school and getting stuck into something hands-on.
🎟️ BOOK TICKETS HERE 🎟️

Ready to bake Focaccia like a pro?
2025-09-10 19:00 - 20:30 | La Bakerie, 119a High Street, Wanstead, E11 2RL
Franck, head baker at La Bakerie, will guide you through the entire process of baking foccacia. He’ll teach you everything, from preparing the perfect dough to creating both classic and uniquely flavoured focaccia. You’ll get to taste each incredible creation straight from the oven and experience the full sensory delight of his work. The event also includes a behind-the-scenes tour of our bakery. You’ll see, smell, and taste the wonderful results of Franck’s passion. And of course, you’ll leave with a special goodie bag to take home!

An Evening with Jack the Ripper
2025-09-10 19:30 - 21:15 | The Bull, 129 High Street, Wanstead, E11 2RL
Whitechapel. 1888. Between August and November a series of women are brutally murdered. The identity of the killer remains a mystery. Until now…?
It’s the greatest unsolved case in criminal history. One that continues to confuse and confound. Generating argument, debate and a host of different theories.
Who was he?
What was his motive?
And how did he get away with it?
‘An Evening with Jack the Ripper’ will delve into the sordid realms of Victorian London in an attempt to finally unmask the man with the blackest of hearts who preyed upon the most vulnerable members of society.
Award winning producer and broadcaster Steve Morgan has captivated thousands of people on his celebrated ‘Ripper walks’ through the east-end of London, where he retraces the steps of the notorious killer through the streets he stalked. Now he has adapted the story for the stage and invites you to spend an evening in the company of Jack the Ripper… and live to tell the tale!

Suitable for: age 12+
Running time: Two 40 min acts with 20 min interval
Further information: www.rippershow.co.uk
Follow on: Facebook | Instagram

“As a former refuge for highwaymen, blaggards and thieves, Wanstead is a place steeped in criminal folklore and history. I can think of no better setting to recount the tale of Jack the Ripper and the lives of his victims as we seek to unmask the identity of the killer once and for all.”

St Mary’s Crypt Tours - 11 Sept
2025-09-11 | St. Mary’s Church, Overton Drive, Wanstead, E11 2LW

Wanstead Book Festival presents: Stephen Colegrave in conversation with Victor Adebowale
2025-09-11 19:30 - 21:00 | Wanstead Library Churchill Room, Spratt Hall Road, Wanstead, E11 2RQ
Join us for an evening with Stephen Colegrave, co-founder and executive editor of Byline Times—the independent news platform known for holding power to account and championing investigative journalism in an age of disinformation. A driving force behind Byline Festival and Byline TV, Stephen has been at the heart of a new media movement that blends activism, journalism and culture. In conversation with Wanstead Book Festival favourite Lord Victor Adebowale, Stephen will reflect on the state of the press, politics and public trust—and offer a preview of his forthcoming landmark book on punk, a lifelong passion rooted in rebellion, creativity and social change. Thoughtful, provocative, and not to be missed.

House of Scandal: A tribute to heiress Catherine
2025-09-12 19:30 - 21:30 | St. Mary’s Church, Overton Drive, Wanstead, E11 2LW
A tribute to Wanstead’s House heiress Catherine on the 200th anniversary of her death.
The angel of Wanstead House, Catherine Long-Wellesley, who was wronged by her rogue of a wastrel husband who squandered her fortune, died exactly 200 years ago. Her tale is one of celebrity, glamour and exquisite injustice – but so much more than that.
Suspend your disbelief as, for one night only, the Duke of Wellington invites the people of Wanstead to join him at St Mary’s Church to celebrate the life of their lost heiress. An extraordinary evening of storytelling and music will honour the legacy of a fearless trailblazer, a local legend and a symbol of fierce feminine determination.
This celebration of life promises to be as unforgettable as the woman herself. Featuring text created by the author of The Angel and the Cad, Geraldine Roberts, and soul-stirring classical performances by the internationally-renowned Anastasia Nikki Forova, and , the event will culminate in a procession into the church grounds – where remembrance meets revelry. Raise a glass at an open-air wake and be part of a night where music, memory, and community come together under the stars.
Don’t miss this powerful tribute to a woman who changed her world – and continues to inspire ours.
All welcome. One night only. Let her story light the way.

Piano Recital: Yuki Negishi
2025-09-12 19:30 - 21:30 | Holy Trinity Church, 185 Hermon Hill, Wanstead, E18 1QQ
Featuring works by Ravel, Chopin, Scarlatti and Beethoven, played by international concert pianist Yuki Negishi.

St Mary’s Crypt Tours - 13 Sept
2025-09-13 | St. Mary’s Church, Overton Drive, Wanstead, E11 2LW

Wanstead Fringe Jumble Trail 2025
2025-09-13 10:00 - 15:00 | All around Wanstead, Wanstead, London, United Kingdom
JUMBLE TRAIL MAPS: DOWNLOAD | GOOGLE MAPS
The popular Wanstead Fringe Jumble trail is back!
The original, biggest and best local trail returns on Saturday 13 September bringing Jumble Trail fans to Wanstead from all over East London.

The Jumble Trail offers a brilliant opportunity to clear out your wardrobe and free up some space in the toy cupboard – assuming you dare to open it! It also provides a great excuse to get out there and meet the neighbours, steal ideas for your garden, and just have a general wander around the area.
Who knows who you might meet – or what you might find?
The jumble trail will run from 10am – 3pm (but please feel free to start whenever’s convenient and keep yours open for as long – or short – a time as needed to clear your clutter!).Please note, this year there will not be a central hub at the Corner House.
Display boards have now gone out – apologies, any requests received after 2nd September will not be fulfilled.

Map of this year’s locations(new locations will be added in batches as we get new signups – open in new window)
