New Orleans Fringe Festival:
Fringe festivals originated in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1947 when artists, gathering for an international cultural festival, perfomed on the "fringes" of the city when they could not secure other venues. This became an annual and international phenomenon. Artistic events emulating these festivals are held in New York and Minneapolis. The New Orleans Fringe Festival takes place in mid-November. All of the acts can best be described as unusual. In 2009 the dates are November 11-15.What:
Forty-five groups will perform in 100 shows in venues across town. The shows include drama, dance, cabaret, magic, storytelling, comedy, puppetry, clowning, circus, improvisational, aerialist--whew!--and more creative works. Plus, if you haven't registered, you too can perform, perhaps on the open stages at the Festival Tent, on Thursday and Friday from 5pm-10pm, Saturday and Sunday 12pm-10pm.Where:
Venues are around town, but Marigny, Bywater and French Quarter are the main venues, The venues for the shows include the Festival Tent Lounge, Hi-Ho Lounge, Peter's Piano Place, Sidearm Gallery, The Skull Club, Backyard Ballroom, Marigny Theatre, St. Ferdinand Church. Here's a map to help you locate each venue.A Few of the Acts:
You will see perfomerances from groups all over the country and the world. The performances range from drama, poetry, comedy, dance, opera to the truly unconventional. There's something for everyone. Here's the 2009 schedule of shows.Other Happenings:
The Fringe Festival begins with a Parade at 3pm. The Goodchildren Social Aid & Pleasure Club leads it. The parade route is along St. Claude Avenue starting from Poland and ending at Marigny. In 2009 the Grand Marshall is local hero Ms. Pearl of Kamp Katrina fame, theme is “Off the Rails Again,” There's a party at the HiHo Lounge from 4:30-6:00.
The parade features a lot of wild and crazy performers and musicians.More Info:
Tickets are cash only at $7.00 per event, plus $3.00 for a festival button, or you can get a package deal for $30.00. Tickets for all events are available at the Fringe Festival Tent at corner of Press and Dauphine Streets in the Marigny. Phone 504-941-3640. More detailed information is available at the Fringe website.
