With a week of ground-breaking contemporary performances, Fierce brought the global stage right to its heart. From October 15-20, this fearless organisation returned with its signature cocktail of provocative and avant-garde works, leaving audiences both enthralled and challenged.
Kicking off at the new festival hub the Black Box Theatre, Fierce launched a thrilling line-up curated by director (artistic) Clayton Lee. With over fifteen productions hailing from nine countries, Fierce 2024 offered a diverse array of live art that pushed the boundaries of performance. As always, many events were free, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for a wide audience, a testament to Fierce's commitment to breaking down barriers between art and community.
Fierce is known for its ability to provoke thought, evoke emotions, and spark conversations long after the performances end. This year was no exception. From the audacious to the reflective, each production offered a unique lens through which to view the world, making the 2024 edition a week to remember.
I was lucky to see eight performances over three days, each offering something unique. From the raw physicality of Batty Bwoy to the introspective slowness of MIKE, every piece challenged my perceptions. Some performances, from rock to rock and Twine, transported me into surreal, dreamlike landscapes, while others, such as Manual, found beauty in the everyday. Fierce 2024 was a journey through vastly different worlds, each offering a distinct perspective and artistic vision.
The festival felt truly alive, thanks in no small part to the warmth and enthusiasm of the people who brought it together. Volunteers and staff were ever-present, creating an inviting atmosphere that embraced both seasoned festivalgoers and curious newcomers (like me) alike. The buzz extended beyond the theatre walls, with conversations spilling out into streets, cafes, and bars.
Whether witnessing unexpected performance art in the streets or engaging with meticulously crafted theatrical pieces, Fierce was once again a powerful reminder of the role contemporary performance plays in challenging and expanding our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
With its risk-taking programming, energetic city-wide takeover, and commitment to accessibility and artistic risk, Fierce Festival 2024 has cemented its place as one of the UK’s most daring and essential performance festivals. Here’s to 2026!
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