The Festival 2016
Running from the 3rd to the 29th of August, The Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2016 has the city braced for a whirlwind month packed with Comedy, Theatre, Dance and Physical Circus, Cabaret, Musicals and Opera, a Digital Arts Festival, talks from leading political figures and so much more! This year, the Fringe will be spread across well over 300 venues as it infuses itself right in the heart of the city.
There will be over 50,000 performances in what is widely consider as one of the world's most dynamic and revolutionary arts festivals.
A Unique Atmosphere
The Fringe really does make Edinburgh the place to be for August. Visitors from all over the world are welcomed with open arms to a city where a large TV monitor, placed on the Royal Mile, displays the words: "Welcome World". There is a friendly warmth that fills the streets, whatever the weather, as students, University buildings, bars, pubs and clubs welcome and host a tremendous array of artistic talent. The Fringe is the Festival where the UK top comics share venues and stages with unheralded newcomers; this openness and tolerance of difference is reflected in every crevice of the city.
Something For Everyone
With The Fringe being the world's largest arts festival, there really is choice on offer that fits all tastes. Fringe favourites such as comedians Paul Merton and Russell Howard will feature in the media's limelight and there will be a popular production of Shakespeare's Richard III at the Royal Lyceum Theatre. There will also be an ample supply of political humour with Brexit set to feature strongly on stage this year. Also widely tipped to do very well is Camille O'Sullivan's 'The Carny Dream' where the Fringe signing star seeks to reset the work of David Bowie - amongst others - in this year's show. However, the best tip is without doubt to arrive in Edinburgh and see where your feet take you.
There is an enchanting excitement to a unplanned day at The Fringe where one move round paid shows, The Free Fringe and passes by the street artists offering a curious glance at the weird wonders that meet your eyes.
It is impossible to see all of The Fringe, but it is essential you make an effort to see some of it.