Prepare yourself for 10 days of invigorating theatre and fun with the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival! Celebrating its 35th year, the festival runs from August 11 – 21, 2016, and this year’s theme is “That Was Then, This is Fringe”. As the eclectic festival takes a look back through its history, we’re offering here a refresher course on some need-to-know information for frequent and new Fringers. Here’s how you can get the most out of your Fringe experience!
1. Plan ahead. If you have a limited amount of time to see shows and want to catch as many as possible, try to schedule shows close together. It takes at most 15 minutes to walk between most of the Lottery Venues and the BYOVs in Old Strathcona. Or make a day of visiting the shows in the French Quarter (ensuring to fit in a tasty Croque Madame at Café Bicyclette). It’s considered an Olympic-level feat to fit 8 shows in one day!
2. Listen to recommendations. With over 216 shows in 46 venues, how do you decide what to see? Strike up conversations with fellow Fringers in the ticket lines or in the beer tents and ask them what they’ve enjoyed. You can also find our picks for Fringe shows we’ve enjoyed on the site later in the festival.
3. Talk to the performers. Related to above, don’t be afraid to chat with the artists who are walking around the grounds and visiting you in the lines. On top of being friendly and funny people, they may have a great show to pitch you. And if you’re kind, you may just score some last-minute tickets to their show that they’re looking to give away.
4. Take advantage of discounts. Fringe artists sometimes offer tickets at a discounted price at the Daily Discount Booths on the main grounds. Stop by in the afternoon to see what deals on a great show you can take advantage of.
5. Stay hydrated. Refill your water bottle at a station located on 83 Ave. directly behind the wine tent near El Cortez.
6. Bring the kids. Though not all shows are appropriate for every age, there are many activities for children to take in during the Fringe! All of the outdoor buskers and stage performers provide FREE (though donations are appreciated) family-friendly entertainment! And the Kids Fringe area on 104 St., between 86 Ave. & 85 Ave., features puppet shows, story time, songs, and crafts daily.
7. Leave your car at home. Parking in the area is limited, so it’s easier to take a bus to the Fringe grounds. A FREE shuttle runs between Old Strathcona and the French Quarter every half hour. The High Level Bridge Streetcar runs between Jasper Plaza and Old Strathcona every day until 10 pm, and makes for a scenic ride to a show! Plan your route here.
8. Buy a program guide. Not only is it packed full of information on shows, maps, schedules, and FREE Edmonton Transit tickets, but it also makes an attractive souvenir for your Fringe experience!
Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival | August 11 – 21
Various venues in Old Strathcona, Downtown, and in the French Quarter
