The Melbourne Fringe Festival program has officially launched and tickets are now on sale. With 463 events, featuring over 6,000 artists, 2016 is the biggest ever Melbourne Fringe. The festival has introduced some new tools to help audiences navigate the diverse program.
Melbourne Fringe will host the Festival Fortune Teller at the Bank Australia Ticket Booth at City Square (near Collins and Swanston streets) throughout the festival. Supported by Creative Victoria, the Festival Fortune Teller will provide one-on-one sessions with Fringe-goers to determine which events they’re destined to see.
The Fortune Teller will be reading palms from 2.00pm – 7.00pm every day of the festival (except Mondays). Audiences can also access the Fortune Teller online via the Melbourne Fringe website.
This year Melbourne Fringe is launching its most creative and interactive keynote project to date, Sky Light, by audio-visual artist Robin Fox. Melbourne’s most prominent buildings will be connected by giant beams of laser light, transforming the cityscape into a sight of illumination. Sky Light launches on Thursday 15 September until Sunday 18 September 2016.
Punters can also head to Federation Square on Sunday 18 September between 12:30pm & 3:30pm to see a veritable who’s who of this year’s program at the Spotlight Stage. Hosted by celebrity comedian Josh Earl, the event shines a light on Fringe acts across the spectrum. The showcase culminates with a joyous live music performance by the Wilin Centre for Indigenous Arts and Cultural Development. The family-friendly showcase will give audiences a teaser of the fantastic program.
“Melbourne Fringe Festival is part of the DNA of Victoria’s arts industry. Fringe is a champion of new creative talent and new ideas,” said Minister for Creative Industries, Martin Foley. That’s why the Victorian Government is proud to have boosted funding to the Fringe over the next four years as part of our commitment to supporting artists, enhancing creative careers and building our reputation as the creative state.”
Melbourne Fringe fosters the idea of cultural democracy – of art for everyone – which is why established and emerging artists stand side-by-side testing bold new work. With over 460 events, Melbourne Fringe is a fun, affordable way to experience new and exciting art in Melbourne.
The 2016 Melbourne Fringe Festival runs 15 September – 2 October. For more information, visit: www.melbournefringe.com.au for details.
Image: A Passage to Parallel Worlds at Abbotsford Convent (supplied)