GENERAL INFO:

• ALL Stockholm Fringe Festival acts are eligible for an award nomination, except for the headline act and acts employed by the festival. This also applies to acts curated by the festival or to those that are part of a possible group presentation, such as a Fringe Academy showcase.

• Nominations can be based on many factors, such as the uniqueness, nerve and talent showcased in the project.

• Artistic courage, innovation, and boundary-breaking are as crucial as the work ethic of the acts involved.

• Being a star on stage is just as important as being an MVP off-stage. Acts that breach our code of conduct will be omitted from the nomination and award process. Please see our ethos tab to find out more about whats expected from festival participants.

REGISTER FOR 2026 JURY DUTY:

• Would you like to become part of our “mystery shopper jury”? You can now register to serve on the #STOFF2026 Fringe Awards jury via this FORM.

• Jury members can bring friends and see a bunch of shows. After each show, they share a few words via email about the experience.

• We prioritise industry peers and STOFF alumni for jury duty. However, registration is open to all.

THE #STOFF2026 FRINGE AWARD JURY PROCESS:

• Our award jury nominates three candidates for each category.

• The outcome of the awards is based on opinions gathered from the award jury, mystery shoppers (industry delegates), and reviewers.

• The festival core crew and volunteers also have a say. A great show performed by a rude cast will get minus points.

• Many award winners get offers to perform at other international festivals. Their STOFF FRINGE AWARD label often helps them apply for funding and gain the attention of new audiences and media!

• The most significant award is the one voted for by the audience!

THE REVAMPED 2026 FRINGE AWARDS CATEGORIES!

1. FUNNY BONES — Comedy - For the show that made us laugh the hardest. Celebrating brilliant comedy, sharp wit and impeccable timing.

2. VANGUARD — Innovation & Experimentation - For bold work at the forefront of artistic innovation. Celebrating experimentation, fresh ideas and new ways of creating.

3. LONE WOLF — Solo Performance - For an outstanding solo performer who commands the stage alone. Proving that sometimes one is all it takes to own the room.

4. GRAND PRIX — Excellence in Performance - The festival’s top honour for outstanding live performance. Celebrating exceptional artistry, craft and impact.

5. EYE OPENER — Visual Art & Film - For visual work that demands to be seen. Celebrating film and visual art that shifts perspectives and leaves a lasting impression.

6. RISING STAR — Emerging Talent - For an exciting new or emerging voice. Celebrating originality, artistic spark and serious potential.

7. RENEGADE — Political & Social Impact - For fearless work that challenges the status quo. Celebrating art that confronts power, tackles urgent issues and refuses to stay silent.

8. AUDIENCE CHOICE — People’s Pick - The festival favourite, chosen by the people who matter most: our audience. Voted for by festivalgoers throughout STOFF. (Voting opens 27th of Aug)

9. Festival Hero Diploma - For someone who has given that extra to the festival!