The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival, is back in full swing after a challenging year due to the pandemic. With 3,841 shows in 262 venues, the Fringe offers a diverse range of performances that cater to all tastes.
The Fringe began on the edge of the first Edinburgh International Festival in 1947, with eight companies feeling the need to showcase theatre that was not being represented. Today, the Fringe has outgrown the international festival and continues to attract performers and audiences from around the world.
Despite the festival’s success, performers are facing increasing costs, particularly in accommodation, which has tripled since 2019. However, the thrill of performing at the Fringe seems to outweigh any concerns about cost, as performers continue to flock to Edinburgh to showcase their talents.
One of the highlights of this year’s Fringe is the return of acrobatic act A Simple Space, Gravity & Other Myths, who are set to dazzle audiences with their breathtaking performances. Additionally, newcomers like 10-year-old Alfie and 81-year-old Christine Thynne are making their Fringe debuts, showcasing the festival’s inclusive and diverse nature.
The Fringe’s rich history is also celebrated this year, with the Golden City, one of the first examples of immersive theatre, being showcased in a new exhibition. Original cast members gathered to reminisce about their experiences and the impact the show had on their lives.
As the Fringe continues to evolve and grow, it remains a testament to the power of creativity and the arts to bring people together and inspire change. Despite the challenges faced by performers, the spirit of the Fringe lives on, offering a platform for artists of all ages and backgrounds to showcase their talents and make their mark on the world stage.
