Listen up, Vancouver. One of the most celebrated annual events in the local arts community turns 40 this year, but they’ll need help to ensure the party reaches everyone.

Built on the belief that ‘theatre is for everyone,’ Vancouver Fringe has been delighting audiences with its “half theatre, half party” setup for nearly four decades now. With live music, drag, dance, comedy shows, and more – there’s definitely something for every creative out there.

Every year, over 85 performing artists are selected from a lottery draw to participate in the largest theatre festival in the province.

Unlike traditional performing arts fests, the uncurated event returns 100% of ticket profits back to the artists who participate. Artists’ costs like staging, audience seating, and lighting and sound equipment are also subsidized, meaning they cover around 80% of what it would cost an artist to produce a show on their own.

“We are asking anyone who loves the Fringe to support your local festival today to ensure it’s here tomorrow,” says Amy Blackmore, President of the Canadian Association of Fringe Festivals and Artistic and Executive Director of the Montreal Fringe. “When you buy a ticket at a Fringe, you are directly supporting the artist on the stage. When you make a donation to the festival itself, you are helping that artist gain access to the platform and the resources they need to get to the stage in the first place.”

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As a result of an urgent need for funding, the Vancouver Fringe has had to cut back one-third of the upcoming September festival. To ensure Vancouver Fringe’s survival, past and present attendees are encouraged to donate to the cause.

With the public’s support, the Vancouver Fringe Fest will continue to support independent artists from across the globe for years to come.

So there you have it, arts and theatre lovers! Stay tuned for more info as it comes, including more details about the 2024 festival and artist lineup.

Vancouver Fringe Festival 2024

When: September 2024
Where: Granville Island