Within that broad spectrum, punters can look forward to drag shows, dizzying acrobatics, a Disney spin-off, kids’ shows and favourites from the comedy circuit. Stalls serving street food, pints and even cocktails offer the chance to refuel between acts. Essentially, think of it as a mini Edinburgh Festival Fringe (which is where the Underbelly began, after all) slap bang in the middle of London.
Look out for that upside-down purple cow, the Udderbelly, at Earl's Court, and the red and yellow spire of the Spiegeltent in Cavendish Square. Here are the highlights to catch at the 2022 Underbelly Festival…
CIRCUS ABYSSINIA: TULU
WHEN: Tuesday 24 May - Saturday 18 June
WHERE: Earl's Court
The world’s first circus company created for and by Ethiopian artists, Circus Abyssinia comes to Underbelly Festival with a show paying homage to Ethiopian Olympic runner Derartu Tulu. Expect fire-juggling, daring acrobatics and wince-worthy feats of contortion.
UNFORTUNATE: THE UNTOLD STORY OF URSULA THE SEA WITCH
WHEN: Tuesday 21 June - Saturday 16 July
WHERE: Earl's Court
The Little Mermaid’s diva-ish antagonist gets to tell her side of the story in this parody musical, which makes its London premiere at Underbelly Earl's Court. Spurred on by filthy humour and a pumping soundtrack, the Octo-woman is about to create a splash.
LA CLIQUE
WHEN: Friday 13 May - Sunday 3 July
WHERE: Cavendish Square
Award-winning cabaret-variety group La Clique is back in London and bringing down the Spiegeltent with a spectacular new show.
LONDON COMEDY ALLSTARS
WHEN: Friday 6 May - Friday 29 July (Fridays only)WHERE: Cavendish Square
A returning favourite: London Comedy Allstars sees some of the best talent on the comedy circuit descend on the Underbelly to try out their latest material and make audiences roar. Names confirmed for the summer run include Phil Wang, Lou Sanders and Catherine Bohart.
YUMMY: ICONIC
WHEN: Tuesday 5 - Sunday 31 July
WHERE: Cavendish Square
Drag group Yummy are back in town with a variety show celebrating and subverting some well-known cultural icons. Prepare to be dazzled.
The Underbelly Festival is running at Earl's Court from Thursday 5 May – Saturday 16 July and at Cavendish Square from Thursday 28 April – Sunday 31 July. Click here to book.
| What | Underbelly Festival, Earl's Court and Cavendish Square |
| When |
28 Apr 22 – 31 Jul 22, Performance times vary depending on event |
| Price | £21 - £42 |
| Website | Click here for more information and to book |
