Theater lovers party all weekend at the third annual Jersey Fringe

Can’t wait for the Philadelphia Fringe Festival? Can’t afford a plane ticket to Scotland for Edinburgh Fringe, which boasts a daunting lineup of more than 3,000 productions? A more local — and more manageable — alternative awaits in Hammonton, New Jersey, where the third annual Jersey Fringe Festival takes place August 3 through 5. The Eagle Theatre, a performing-arts venue housed in a former movie palace, serves as the primary venue, but events throughout the weekend occur all over town, allowing locals and visitors a chance to experience what Hammonton has to offer.

Keeping that quirky vibe

Eagle Theatre producing director Ed Corsi and artistic director Ted Wioncek III came up with the idea for Jersey Fringe in 2015 to boost their theater’s profile in the usually quiet summer months. “We started with just a few people and a crazy idea, and now we have a huge committee of staff and volunteers dedicated to expanding the festival,” Corsi said. Despite the festival’s growth and partnership with corporate sponsors, Corsi remains committed to fostering a relaxed atmosphere: “We are staying true to our roots, keeping it fun, and striving for a quirky, party-like vibe throughout the weekend.”

No need to miss a show

Unlike Philly Fringe, which spans several weeks and countless venues across the city, the Jersey Fringe Festival is designed for uncomplicated consumption. Attendees can see all events over the course of the weekend, with virtually no conflicts, and all performance sites are within walking distance of the Eagle. Day passes are available for $19, but festivalgoers have the option of purchasing an all-access pass for $39, allowing them to sample all offerings throughout the weekend. Food trucks will line the streets of Hammonton to provide sustenance, and a pop-up beer garden will cater to those looking to imbibe.

The performance schedule features an eclectic mix of work by artists from near and far. “Some producing companies are coming from California this year, and some are based right here in South Jersey,” Corsi said. “Philly artists have also been very important throughout the first three years of the festival.” And for Philly audiences, Hammonton is an easy ride. It’s less than an hour’s drive over the Delaware and accessible by train just a few blocks from the festival center.

‘Ghost Stories,’ Durang, and more

Highlights include a remount of Josh Hitchens’s Ghost Stories, a hit at June’s SoLow Fest (here’s the BSR review); selections from Christopher Durang’s classic collection of shorts, Durang/Durang, presented by South Jersey Players; and the first local production of 3 Egg Creams, a one-man show featuring the music of Lou Christie, which has played sold-out engagements in New York City and Asbury Park, New Jersey. (Full info on venues and schedule is available online.)

Discovering Hammonton

Corsi hopes to continue the Jersey Fringe Festival into the foreseeable future, citing the event's positive effect on Hammonton. “The town has really embraced the concept,” Corsi said. “The locals seem to really like the outdoor atmosphere, and once they’re here, they usually get a pass and see some of the indoor theatrical productions too. Visitors get exposed to Hammonton and then come back for other events, or just to visit one of the area’s breweries, wineries, restaurants, or other businesses. It’s made a big impact.”

The Jersey Fringe Festival runs Friday, August 3, through Sunday, August 5, in Hammonton, New Jersey. Daily festival passes are priced at $19 per day, and all-access weekend passes are available for $39. Visit online for performance schedule and other information.

Above: Chalk art at last year's festival. (Photo courtesy of Jersey Fringe Festival.)