Comedian Josh Widdicombe becomes patron of Totnes Fringe Festival

Totnes Fringe Festival has announced that acclaimed comedian Josh Widdicombe will join the festival as its first official Patron, alongside confirming its headline sponsors for 2026: The Bull Inn and Albatross Pizza Shop and Ben's Farm Shop.

The announcements mark a major milestone as the volunteer-led Festival prepares to return from 9-12 July 2026 with an expanded four-day programme featuring 70 performances across the town.

Josh Widdicombe is now a patron of the Totnes Fringe Festival - credit Jiksaw

Building on the success of its inaugural year in 2025, which saw over 3,000 visitors, 2,146 tickets sold and 85% average seat occupancy, the festival is rapidly establishing itself as one of the South West’s most exciting new theatre events. Transforming pubs, halls, gardens and community spaces into vibrant stages, it is rooted in a simple idea: theatre belongs here.

Josh Widdicombe, one of the UK’s most recognisable comedians and broadcasters, brings national profile and strong support for the Festival’s mission. Known for his work on The Last Leg, QI, Taskmaster, Live at the Apollo and as co-host of the hugely successful podcast Parenting Hell, his involvement signals growing recognition of Totnes Fringe beyond the region.

“Totnes Fringe is exactly the kind of festival that matters,” he said. “Ambitious, independent, and genuinely open to a wide range of artists and audiences. It’s rooted in the South West but has the potential to grow into something much bigger and I’m really pleased to support it as patron.”

Geetie Singh-Watson outside The Bull Inn

Danielle McIlven, Director of Totnes Fringe Festival, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Josh Widdicombe to be our Patron. His support is a huge boost for us as he recognises that festivals are where emerging artists can cut their teeth, and one of our fundamental aims is to provide that launchpad.”

Alongside this announcement, the Festival has confirmed The Bull Inn and Albatross Pizza Shop and Ben's Farm Shop as its headline sponsors for 2026.

Danielle McIlven said: “We are hugely grateful for the generosity of both The Bull Inn, Albatross Pizza Shop and Ben’s Farm Shop in coming on board as our headline sponsors. Their support will make a tangible difference to what we can deliver this year, from keeping ticket prices accessible to ensuring that artists are properly supported, with at least 80% of ticket income going directly to them.”

She continued: “It’s particularly meaningful to have local, values-led businesses backing the Festival. Totnes Fringe is rooted in this place and its community, and that support allows us to grow sustainably while staying true to what matters, creating a platform for bold, independent performance and bringing audiences and artists together in unexpected spaces across the town.”

Ben's Farm Shop

With growing national attention, strong local backing and a clear mission to support artists and audiences alike, Totnes Fringe Festival continues to build momentum as a distinctive and ambitious addition to the UK’s cultural landscape. For more information please visit https://totnesfringe.uk/