Edmonton Fringe Festival

Though many cities now host Fringe Theatre Festivals, Edmonton's was one of the first, biggest, and best. Really taking off in the 1980s, this festival allowed lesser-known actors from around the world to perform in warehouses, former bus barns, and other such venues around Old Strathcona on Edmonton's southside. In its earlier days, tickets were a few dollars each, and it was necessary to line up just before the show to buy rush seating. With its popularity, some of this spontaneity gave way to convenience of pre-sold ticketing, etc. The best plays were often promoted through word of mouth and posters, though a parade kicking off the event, shown here, gave performers a chance to promote their work.

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