IndyFringe

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About

The IndyFringe Festival is Indianapolis’ largest performing arts festival, transforming the city into a hub of creativity for 11 days each August. Produced by IF Theatre, the festival provides a platform for artists of all disciplines, from theatre and dance to stand-up comedy, circus, and magic. Since its inception, IndyFringe has served over 7,000 artists and returned more than $2.5 million to performers.

The festival is entirely walkable, with venues located along the vibrant Mass Ave Cultural Arts District, allowing audiences to experience multiple performances in a single outing. In addition to performances, the festival fosters community engagement through its Curtain Call Cantina, where artists and audiences can connect. IF Theatre remains dedicated to supporting artistic innovation, ensuring that IndyFringe continues to be a space for experimentation, bold storytelling, and cultural exchange.

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Submission Requirements

The 2025 IndyFringe Festival runs from August 14-24, with applications opening on January 6 and closing on February 16 at 11:59 PM EST. Artists are selected through a tiered lottery system, with approximately 60 acts admitted. A separate Amplified Voices Lottery is available for BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and disabled artists, ensuring diverse representation.

Key application steps:

• Submit an application and pay the $30 non-refundable fee (refunded if not selected).
• If selected, accept the offer by March 10 and pay 50% of the participation fee.
• Submit marketing materials by April 4.
• Performers receive six scheduled performances during the festival, with venue assignments determined by IF Theatre.

Performances must be 45-60 minutes long and adhere to festival guidelines. All ticket sales are handled through the festival’s box office. Artists are encouraged to engage with audiences and promote their shows actively.

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Finances

IndyFringe is designed to be financially accessible while ensuring artists benefit from their participation. Artists receive 70% of ticket sales, with IndyFringe retaining 30% for festival operations. Ticket prices are:

• $20 for general admission
• $14 for students, seniors, and children
• Pay-What-You-Can tickets (minimum $12)

Participation fees depend on venue size:

• Tier 1 (100+ seats): $650 for six performances, $375 for three performances
• Tier 2 (50-99 seats): $350 for six performances, $200 for three performances

Only 50% of the participation fee is due upfront, with the remainder deducted from box office earnings. A $2 processing fee is added to each ticket to cover administrative costs. IndyFringe also offers housing support for out-of-town artists through community billeting, though availability is limited.

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Volunteer Information

IndyFringe relies on volunteers to keep the festival running smoothly. Opportunities include:

• Box Office & Ushers – Help manage ticketing and audience entry.
• Bartenders – Must have or be willing to obtain a beverage permit.
• Office Support – Assist with organizing and social media.

Volunteers enjoy free show tickets, festival merchandise, and exclusive events. Those interested can sign up at indyfringe.org/volunteer.