WINNIPEG – Downtown is about to get a lot more dramatic.
The Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival barely needs an introduction, as it has grown to be the second largest festival of its kind in North America. Last year the event sold more than 104,000 tickets and this year organizers expect that number to grow.
The kickoff event took place in Old Market Square, where Winnipeggers can expect to see lots of action over the next two weeks.
“You’ve got poetry, cabaret, clowns, circus and unclassifiable. Who knows what you’ll see at the fringe,” said Chuck McEwen, executive producer of the festival.
The Fringe Festival brings more than 180 theatre companies from Canada and around the world to Winnipeg stages. Shows range across comedy, musicals, improv and some that are so unique they can’t quite be put into a genre.
Every year the festival tries to change things up a little, and this year organizers are excited to put some new elements into the spotlight.
“Almost all the plays are original works, so they’re new every year,” said McEwen. “But this year we also have a new mobile app, so we’re hoping to make it easier for young people who use their phone to access information.”
Businesses downtown are also looking forward to the rush of crowds and the opportunity to show off Winnipeg’s growing core.
“This is one of our busiest times of the year. We are very fortunate to be a part of all of the festivals that happen in Old Market Square,” said Nick Van Segglen, owner of Bodegoes.
The fest runs until July 26. Indoor shows will take over more than 30 venues downtown at $10 a show. Theatre enthusiasts can also see 14 shows for $109.
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