The Rome Fringe Festival returns to the capital this summer, after its inaugural edition last year attracted over 20,000 spectators. Described as "young and spirited but above all great quality" the festival programme comprises over 72 companies and 230 performances over 30 days. The action takes place on three separate stages in Villa Mercede and covers all genres of fringe including performance, art installation, comedy, drama, stand-up, sung theatre, theatrical dance and improvisation. The themes represented range from women's issues to the Mafia to current affairs. This year will see the participation of a number of international companies – from countries such as Britain, US, Sweden and Switzerland – and a range of parallel events including book presentations, debates and craft markets. Villa Mercede, Via Tiburtina 113 (S. Lorenzo), daily from 18.00. Free entry to villa, performances €5. For more info see www.fringeitalia.it.