My overall impression
Ok… So I’ve been reading some of these reviews of the fringe award party and I am pretty sad. I usually wouldnt dignify this stuff with a response but I can’t help myself.
So they didn’t have fans! I think the freakish heat took everyone by surprise and once all those people got in the seats it got hotter. We didn’t need fans in the same space last year so how could they know?
Also, are you going to begrudge them for not giving a special shout out to you for doing an opera?! I’m sorry but that sounds unfair and entitled. I mean there was a real life prostitute who had to be the first to go on stage and talk about her profession, that was groundbreaking. Did she deserve a special shout out? Heck no. And as much as you prob hate to imagine you are on the same level as a prostitute, you are. We are all equal in the eyes of Fringe – that’s the beauty of it.
“A popularity contest” So many participants were doing amazing stuff and the only ones who were singled out because critics, sponsors or the voting fringe community and show-goers voted them awards. So I wouldnt be surprised that the popular vote of show-attendees/participants resembled a high school popularity contest, because technically, it is. Long live democracy.
“Fringe not celebrating new and daring work” Hate to differ there but I do…BIG TIME. Just because something is new or innovative doesn’t mean it will be liked by every audience member, in fact it almost guerentees it wont. That’s the fickle nature of the “Love it” “Like it” “Not My Thing” system – which admittedly I’m not a big fan of, but the Fringe staff doesn’t decide who likes your show, nor can they make people like your show. No participants are owed anything. I’ve noticed that comedies tend to be Top of Fringe but that’s only because they are so immediately enjoyable and there are some high quality comedic acts at HFF who know how to promote and deliver a HOT show. Even so there were a lot of dramas that got love too and did quite well. In fact Jeremy Aluma of Four Clowns sponsored an award to specifically celebrate and help mentor new blood.
Some of these reviews feel like bitter mis-informed lashings and I understand the festival can be improved but the good news is that with folks like Ben, David, Meghan, Stacy, Liz, Abbie and Kan, we are in good hands. Keep in mind this is only the 4th year and it’s growing huger every year to accommodate the influx of participants and attendees. THIS IS A GOOD THING for all of us actor/writer/producers who are looking to expand our community. If you want tips on promoting, or want honest feedback, it is there! There are also fringe veterans who will support you THIS IS AN ENORMOUSLY SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY. Please don’t take it for granted. Sure I paid my fee too and it was well worth it!!
ASK NOT WHAT YOUR FRINGE CAN DO FOR YOU BUT WHAT YOU CAN DO FOR YOUR FRINGE!!!!!
Great party;)
