The number of shows that had sold out houses set a new record at this year's Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Executive Director Alauna Friskics announced today.
The 27th annual festival that ran from May 15-28 at Orlando's Loch Haven Park had an astounding 147 shows completely sold out. "We shattered the record of 98 shows from last year," said Friskics.
Despite the rainy weather, the festival drew in over 72,000 people during the 14-days, which is an increase of 3% over the previous year. "People look forward to Orlando Fringe every year. It's a place where everyone can be free to unwind, be themselves, and make friends. The rain wasn't going to stop people from Fringing," added Friskics.
"Last year we had 160 shows in 16 venues and saw the attendance average dip to less than 50% of capacity," said Festival Producer Michael Marinaccio. "This year, we reduced the number of shows to 130 and venues to 14 which resulted in an increase in average attendance and average artist payment by 11% over last year. This led to a record number of sellout shows and some of the most enthusiastic crowds we have ever seen, but also a slight decrease in some aggregate festival numbers."
Alauna Friskics added, "Because we had fewer shows, the total amount paid to the festival artists dropped from last year. We were still proud to return 100% of all ticket sales and return over $425,000 to the performing artists, and that is outstanding."
The large crowds were not just confined to the ticketed performances. Kids Fringe, in its new indoor location at Orlando Garden Club, saw thousands of children and parents taking part in the four days of fun. The Orlando Fringe Outdoor Stage expanded its programming by booking more artists than in years past and introduced a Latin night which increased outdoor stage attendance over the 12-days of free performances.
"This festival is a success because of our artists, donors, sponsors, Board of Directors, tireless staff, an army of hard-working volunteers, and all of the patrons of Orlando Fringe, many of whom enjoyed Fringe for the first time," Friskics added. "We heard stories of people traveling across the country to visit Orlando Fringe for the first time and people who traveled from Canada to volunteer at our festival. This is an international festival our Orlando community can be proud of, and we are already planning for next year."
Next year's festival will be the 28th year. Fringe fans can look forward to the Orlando Fringe Winter Mini-Fest which will be returning for its third year in January. Dates for both festivals will be officially announced soon. Visit
orlandofringe.org for news and updates.
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