For the seventh consecutive year, the Capital Fringe Festival has descended on downtown Washington. The annual festival runs from July 12 through Sunday, and area residents are invited to witness the best the city has to offer in the local performing arts.
This year, organizers will be putting on 130-plus shows on 20 stages across the city, offering entertainment from all walks of life.
Whether it’s theater, comedy, visual art or dance, the festival has something for everyone. While those unfamiliar with the Fringe Fest may think it only caters to the artsy crowd, there’s often more than meets the eye.
“Many of our patrons are not regular theater-goers and many are. Fringe is a time to take in not just theater or live performance … but the community of D.C. It is a very relaxed environment, so anyone can come and feel right at home,” said Julianne Brienza, the festival’s executive director and a founding member.
It truly is the community that is at the heart of the festival. Being a nonprofit grassroots organization, the festival depends on volunteers and donations to keep the shows running.
While its not-for-profit nature may seem like a hurdle, it actually has proved to be a strength for the festival. By completely avoiding corporate sponsorship, the festival maintains its independence, giving participating artists the creative freedom to do whatever they choose with their work.
This limitless creativity is the driving force behind the festival, providing it with its quirkiness.
In addition to its originality, the other great strength of the festival is its affordability. Tickets cost $17, plus a one-time $7 admission fee, making it a great source of entertainment in the District for anyone on a budget.
The Capital Fringe Fest is being held across Washington. It concludes Sunday.
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