Fringes vs. Traditional Theatre: Which is Better?

What comes to mind when you think of a theatre production? If you’re like many people, you might be visualizing Broadway actors performing famous plays or musicals in a more regal theater setting. Yet, there is a type of theatre that goes against these perceptions. It is known as fringe theatre.

So, how does fringe theatre work? Basically, it is a type of informal production where virtually every actor, (or wannabe actor), is invited to share their work. And, they can do this in whatever setting they want. This can range from a traditional theater environment to something more unconventional, such as a street corner, behind closed oak doors in a person’s house or even a bathroom! Really, with fringe theatre an actor goes with the heart of the crowd.

Yet, when it comes to cultural value, do fringes actually bring down theatre? Or do they simply give it the contemporary pizzazz its lacked for centuries?

Well, traditional theatre does help preserve the original production. This allows the piece to be produced in the way the playwright intended. With fringes, there’s so much artistic freedom that the playwright’s original words could easily get lost with an actor’s more unique interpretation.

However, artistic freedom is one of the reasons fringes were started to begin with. In fact, even to this day they remain a prominent venue for exposing new actors, playwrights and other figures in the industry. Ultimately, through fringe theatre, every talent gets recognized. You won’t have to sit by the sidelines hoping someone notices your work.

In conclusion, fringes and traditional theatre both play an important role in the performing arts. Fringes help recognize new talent, while traditional theatre ensures that existing talent remains preserved. So, neither is right nor wrong– they’re just different. That’s why in my own personal opinion, it’s best to take advantage of both venues, if possible.

The Cardiff Theatre & Fringe Festival

Twenty-one years ago a great cultural event was born in Cardiff, one of Britain’s most prominent cities. Known as the Cardiff Festival, the event would transform cultural entertainment. Not only was it free, but it was also ongoing. This is because throughout the months of July and August, spectators could enjoy something EVERY weekend.

So, what type of activities does the Cardiff Festival have available? Well, a large portion of them center around the theatre. Consider Cardiff Castle Open-Air Theatre Festival. During this festival, spectators get a chance to see Twelfth Night with a rather interesting backdrop– the Cardiff Castle.

Another theater-related event is the EveryMan Open-Air Theatre Festival. Here you will enjoy a variety of plays. Some of them are Shakespearean while others are more contemporary.

Other events of interest include the Cardiff Festival’s fringe, (where there’s a concentration of theatre activities), and the Sound of Music festival. Indeed, if you are a lover of the theater, you’ll never get bored with the Cardiff Festival’s unique array of events.

Yet what about those people who don’t like the theater as much? What can they do? Can they get any enjoyment from the Cardiff Festival? Definitely, since the Cardiff Festival isn’t JUST about the theater. The event celebrates culture from every spectrum, whether it’s through their International Food & Drink Festival or festivals related to music.

There are also several miscellaneous festivals related to sports, boating, medieval history and children’s entertainment. Ultimately, the unique design of the Cardiff Festival ensures that everyone will have a great time. This is unlike other fringes, where focus is often centered on just one theme or a bunch of exhibition stands.

In conclusion, if you’re in the mood for cultural entertainment, consider checking out the Cardiff Festival. It occurs every summer in Cardiff, and is open to anyone who wants to have fun exploring British culture.

Lastly, I'd just like to thank Enigin for their continued support

Can Fringe Theatre Work in America?

Born in Europe, the fringe theatre tradition is one that has missed the American cultural landscape. Sure, Americans do have off-Broadway productions, where drama is performed in venues outside of Broadway, (even if it’s on the street with exhibition stands). But when it comes to a full-scale fringe, unfortunately it’s pretty much non-existent.

So, why doesn’t America have a fringe tradition? By definition, fringes are exciting events where the whole community gets involved in theatre production– whether it’s performing Shakespeare or giving life to their own unique pieces. Why wouldn’t this be appealing to the American mindset?

Well, right now, I believe most Americans do not have much confidence in the abilities of the common man. If something is worth watching, it has to be produced by a well-known theatre troupe– not drama enthusiasts down the street. And with most fringes, EVERYONE is allowed to participate, whether you are an actor just starting out, or someone that has reached blockbuster status.

On the other hand, Americans are slowly, but surely discovering the creative prowess of the unrecognized artist. Thanks to the Internet, so-called amateurs are making a mint selling their creative works, whether they are Internet articles, books or even a design for running clothes. So, with a little bit of time and patience, I believe Americans would fall in love with the concept of fringe theatre.

Of course, how would such a trend get started? Well, considering how Americans respond to mass-media, it would be easiest if people like Oprah could get something going. But since that’s unlikely, American fringe theatre would have to start small. Perhaps a group of drama students could host such an event at their school. They could then advertise the event on the Internet, and start a trend that way.

Alternatively, Americans could go to Canada or Europe and visit an official fringe performance there. And, after getting a lot of pictures and video, they could start a blog about their experience. If their blog becomes popular, maybe theatre enthusiasts in America will start thinking more seriously about starting a new phenomenon; the American fringe theatre.