Fringelog 2011: Notes From Day 10
Today was the first day I spent a lot of time on the grounds while not watching plays. Finally got to watching some street performer stuff (notably, the Aerial Angels, who are always awesome). Also went on some Sustainival rides, which was a bit odd. Still not sure what I think about having rides on the Fringe grounds, but it’s interesting if nothing else.
I’ve gotten behind on reviews, but they’re not so useful for people looking to see shows anymore. Most of the ones I’m seeing now are on either their last or second last show, or are sold out for their runs. But if you get a chance, check out The Cockwhisperer. I think their last show is on Sunday at 2PM. It’s hilarious. The review will be up later.
Today the Fringe hit 100k ticket sales for the first time ever, which is one hell of a milestone. Leaves it still a far cry from the Edinburgh’s reported 1.5 million ticket sales, but for a smallish prairie city that’s still amazing. I was trying to find comparable figures for the Adelaide Fringe, reputedly the second largest in the world, and it looks like ticket sales for 2009 were around 180k. That with twice as many venues and about three times as many shows (looks like most Adelaide venues only do a couple of shows). Both the Adelaide and Edinburgh Fringes have a model that is, as far as I understand it, much more like the BYOV system we have here, but that’s how all their stuff is done.
It’s great to see the Fringe growing. In pretty much every way. Let’s hope it grows ever more. Hopefully while remaining true to its roots.
