Take in the macabre, wacky, deranged, sensual and congenial from the fun purveyors when the Sydney Fringe Festival kicks off next week.

The festival, in its second year, runs from 9 September–2 October with global performers providing a cultural feast. More than 1000 performances spanning theatre, dance, cabaret and visual arts to more unusual offerings will play out in various venues from Parramatta to the Eastern Suburbs.

The festival is the brainchild of director Richard Hull, who has many years of experience at the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe under his belt. Look out for ghost stories round the campfire, busking sing-offs, acting and accent masterclasses, films under the stars, circus acts and poetry slams.

Festival HQ will be at fringe club Five Eliza in Newtown, a melting pot of New York speakeasy vibes and inner-west bohemia. The pop-up venue will host live music for frequenting Underbelly-Razor style gangs, who are sure to be found swigging absinthe from the club’s green fairy fountain.

For hedonists looking for a thrilling ride, hop on the Mystery Bus over various nights. Your hosts promise a diverse, rousing and sometimes debauched range of performances. Read your clues carefully – X-rated feats are rumoured to be thrown into the mix too.

Tweatre, from 20-24 September, sees audience members creating the show by sending tweets to the actors to improvise. No two shows will be the same with the audience holding creative power over the storyline.

A treasure hunt on 9 September in Newtown Plaza will explore the forgotten enclaves of the area with performances and art installations along the way. At the La La Laughter Lounge, the releasing of happy endorphins is on the agenda, while at 101 l’Afrique (pictured), get a taste of the diversity of African dance genres.

So forget the usual movie sequel, top 100 band gig and brainless Broadway revival. Use this alternate universe push your entertainment and inspiration to their outer limits.

When: 9 Sep–2 Oct
Where: Various venues across Sydney
Price: Many events free | most under $30
Details: thesydneyfringe.com.au