‘Relief’ as fringe festival launched

An excited buzz was in the air as Dunedin’s arts community and friends gathered for the launch of the 2023 Dunedin Fringe Festival programme last week. Held at Te Whare o Rukutia theatre space, the launch was a chance to get a glimpse of the festival’s packed schedule of events, to be held at venues across the city from March 16-26.

Dunedin Fringe Arts Trust co-director Kate Schrader told the large gathering it was a "huge relief" to reach the milestone of releasing the programme, after funding issues last year required a Boosted campaign to keep the festival alive.

"We chose to go ahead with the festival for our artists, who need our support after three brutal years," Ms Schrader said.

"So, we encourage everyone to get back out there and soak up a joyful fringe experience."

She also highlighted the fringe festival would continue its close association with Dunedin Pride. The Dunedin Fringe Festival is an annual 11-day multidisciplinary arts festival, open to anyone, which aims to bring new, innovative, and experimental art to audiences and support the work of emerging artists.

The festival features local and visiting productions in theatre, music, dance, circus arts, comedy, and improvisation, alongside visual arts exhibitions and installations.

For information on events, venues and tickets, visit dunedinfringe.nz.

brenda.harwood@thestar.co.nz