New theatrical festival coming to Barnes this spring

BCA is pleased to announce its support for a new theatrical festival coming to Barnes this spring: The Fireside Folktales Fringe, produced by local theatre company Shadow Road Productions.

Taking place on 23 & 24 May 2026 around Barnes Pond, with a launch event at St Mary's Church on Saturday 16 May, the festival will present a weekend of classic stories reimagined and performed in non-traditional spaces, such as the Methodist Church and Rose House.

Shadow Road, run by Emma King-Farlow, specialises in creating intimate, inventive and meaningful theatre for all ages, staged in unusual and welcoming environments, including bell tents, historic sites, hospitals, gardens, and community venues. The company has previously worked with partners including the National Trust, Combat Stress, Barnes Children’s Literature Festival, the Imperial Health Charity and the London Wetland Centre, always with the aim of making theatre accessible to everyone, not just traditional audiences.

The Fireside Folktales Fringe will bring together professional performers, families, and local audiences to enjoy timeless tales told in imaginative and immersive ways. By placing storytelling at the heart of Barnes, the festival will celebrate creativity, community and shared experience.

BCA is proud to support this new initiative, which reflects Barnes’ vibrant cultural life and commitment to inclusive, community-focused arts.

Further details, including programme and ticketing information, will be announced shortly.