Orlando Fringe 2026 Top Picks
- Lauren Hance
- May 8
- 4 min read
Orlando Fringe is the longest-running fringe in the United States, and has long been on my list of fringe festivals to attend. Sadly, my lottery number has never been pulled (does anyone have a hankie?), but I do keep a regular eye on the festival. I’m thrilled to give my top picks of this year’s festival. While I have to narrow down my picks, I’m gonna have some bonus picks (because you deserve it and I love you).
While What the Fringe?! will not be able to review shows at the 2026 Orlando Fringe. We wish you all well, friends- have a fantastic festival (without me….).
Top Picks
Against Her Wishes: A dark comedy
Join Emily Fontano for the Celebration of Life her mother, Janet, never wanted. This one-hour semi-improvised, musical, comedic, irreverent farewell invites guests to grieve, laugh, and share “memories” of Janet—a woman they never met but will feel compelled to mourn. Audience participation, awkward sentiment, and unexpected hymns (yes, Emily will be singing!) make this the strangest, most refreshing memorial for someone you never knew.
Basic Training
One man. 23 characters. The night before everything changes. Kahlil Ashanti's internationally acclaimed solo show drops you into the hours before he ships out to the U.S. Air Force — where a shocking revelation forces a reckoning with the childhood he tried desperately to leave behind. Join Kahlil for an unforgettable mix of survival and redemption — delivered with stand-up speed and theatrical precision. Based on a true story.
Dolley F***ing Madison
On August 24th, 1814, two British soldiers rock up to the White House to burn it down and claim America back in the name of England. They didn't count on being met by the formidable FIRST first lady, Dolley Madison, a fast-talking southern gal well known for her charm, diplomacy, kick-ass parties, sitting them down, pouring them her finest Kentucky whiskey, and schooling them in all things American. In this fast paced, comedic, and witty play, Dolley amicably dupes these poor boys into a rousing discussion about the American ideals this country was INTENDED to be founded on, the TRUE importance of democracy, and how women ARE, always have been, and always will be a part of it-- all while making sure every piece of important American history, art, documents are smuggled out of house under their noses before they set the building ablaze. Though who or what ends up on fire? That's up to Dolley. F***ing. Madison.
We Got Got
A buddy revenge heist comedy! When [redacted] steals their money, two besties embark on an overseas sting of epic proportions. Based on tragically true events, Kerry Ipema and KK Apple take you on a madcap revenge plot to get their money back... or at least get even.
WINNING: Winning
Hihi! I'm Gordon! Here's a new attempt at marketing this show: unbridled honesty! This is a clown show. If you are still reading, ok, wait for it: it's a silent-ish clown show. Oh no. This honesty thing is making me nervous. I can hear the program pages getting turned as I type. If you are still here, I think you are my target audience. Do you like magic? 90s acoustic rock? Cupcakes?? Dogs? Airbags? Car crashes? Dating? Piano? Tony Robbins? Microsoft Powerpoint? Satisfaction? Otomatones???? All of these things and more will appear with a tight soundtrack. Also, you'll get to see me face my literal biggest fear. I'm not going to tell you what that fear is, but my heart is already beating way too fast.
Bonus Top Picks #1- Featured on Season 3 of What the Fringe?!
These artists have been featured on the podcast this season, so obvi, they are already my top picks. I’ve seen a few of these shows, and they are so good. Trust me, you will love all of them.
Fool of Grace
With the patience of an angel, this father will crack you up. Andrea is a delight of a human, and your spirits will be lifted.
Mark Vigeant: OUT THERE
Like… I’ll say it publicly: I’m a fan girl. I am 100% Mark’s target audience. I loved our podcast chat, and I’m just waiting for the day I can see a show IRL.
MOTHER: A Postpartum Comedy
If you are a mom- GO SEE THIS SHOW! If you are not a mom- GO SEE THIS SHOW, but maybe avoid the splash zone.
Small Minded
Tyler & Cleo are about to give all the Florida fringe couples a run for their money as the cutest fringe couple. Plus, the show is gonna be baller (I think I just embarrassed myself using that word).
The Pink List
I don’t know how Michael does it, but this show about gay men persecuted during the Holocaust left me feeling like there was still hope in the world today. It’s a very touching show, and if you are into musicals, you’ll love it.
EPISODE Drops next week
Bonus Top Picks #2- Orlando Fringe Favorites
Admittedly, we have some besties (and fan favorites) at this festival. Some friends are bringing back shows, while others are bringing new creations. No matter what, they are spectacular artists and worth your consideration.
Josephine
If you live in Orlando and haven’t seen Tymisha perform, what rock have you been hiding under? Tymisha Harris is a powerhouse performer whom I could watch over and over.
PUSH- Generic Male: Just What We Need, Another Show About Men
Like. Just. Go. See. These. Guys. Stellar performers. They are back in Orlando, and here to dazzle you once again with their Generic Male-ness.
Jon Bennett: HOW I LEARNED TO HUG
Having yet to see a Jon Bennett show, I still have to say, you should see a Jon Bennett show. Blending humor, heartache, and storytelling, you’re sure to see something meaningful (even if he pretends things are a c*ck... or a rabbit, (well, in that case, it's just weird (in all the best ways (just listen to the podcast)))).
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