Orlando Fringe

About Orlando Fringe Orlando Fringe, established in 1992, is renowned for its role in providing a platform for artists to present their talents and creations. It is the proud producer of The Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, which holds the distinction of being the longest-running Fringe festival in the United States. The festival is celebrated for its commitment to being unjuried, uncensored, and accessible to both artists and audiences, with the notable policy of returning 100% of ticket sales to the participating artists. The festival, which spans two weeks every May, has been a staple in the community for over three decades, offering a diverse array of live entertainment. This includes unique theatre experiences, visual art displays, family-friendly shows and activities, and complimentary outdoor concerts. It is characterized by a lottery-based selection process that ensures a varied and unpredictable array of performances, distinguishing it as a unique cultural event. Orlando Fringe has evolved significantly since its inception, expanding to include a second annual festival, special events, and educational programs. In January 2023, the organization furthered its mission with the opening of Fringe ArtSpace, a year-round downtown venue. This initiative was prompted by the City of Orlando, which challenged Orlando Fringe to develop artist-focused programming and contribute to Central Florida's vibrant arts scene. Fringe ArtSpace's inaugural season in 2023-2024 promises a rich schedule of activities, including traditional theatre, limited engagement events, and educational programs. The Collective, an accelerator program, is designed to mentor emerging local arts groups. The venue also serves as a national destination for touring productions, offers educational opportunities through Fringe&, and provides affordable rental space for local arts organizations. The team at Orlando Fringe includes a diverse group of individuals dedicated to the arts, from the Interim Executive Director, Paul Oppedisano, to the various managers and coordinators who ensure the smooth operation and continued growth of the organization. Orlando Fringe's mission is to foster creative excellence by providing an accessible and affordable outlet that brings together diverse community elements through the arts. The organization is a proponent of creating a safer space, free from harassment and discrimination, and is committed to inclusivity and respect for all community members. The organization acknowledges the traditional homelands and territories of the Seminole, Miccosukee, and Timucua Tribes upon which the festival takes place. Orlando Fringe also emphasizes the importance of amplifying voices, striving to create an inclusive environment that promotes diverse stories and performances, and provides opportunities for underrepresented artists and communities. Orlando Fringe continues to serve as an inspiration and model for artistic expression and community engagement, both within the local community and the wider world of arts organizations.