ORLANDO — Artists interested in being part of Orlando Fringe’s FESTN4 have until Friday, Aug. 9 to get their applications in, so move quickly.

“We are looking for submissions for our annual FESTN4, our highly anticipated annual 4-day curated Fringe Festival,” Fringe noted. “Applications are now open and the deadline to submit is August 9 at 5 p.m.”

FESTN4 is a weekend-long upcoming festival featuring works from past festivals, and designed to be an introduction for first-time Fringe-goers. All FESTN4 shows are 70 mins or less, and are $15 each except for FESTN4 KIDS shows, which are free. Patrons also need to purchase a $3 Fringe button for admission to the shows.

Artists still have time to take part, Fringe notes.

“Our event features the best of past festivals, captivating new works by beloved fan favorites, and exciting discoveries from talented artists scouted across the International Fringe circuit,” Fringe noted. “Apply for an unforgettable experience celebrating creativity, diversity, and the boundless spirit of artistic expression.”

This festival will be held at Fringe’s downtown ArtSpace theaters, located at 54 W. Church St.

Why is Orlando Fringe Requesting Donations?

In the meantime, Fringe is asking for donations to help ArtSpace make repairs after the property sustained damage from heavy rains.

“We are back from a recent flood that caused significant damage,” Fringe noted in an appeal for donations. “Thanks to your incredible support, we’ve made huge strides in completed repairs.”

Donations of any size, Fringe noted, “will help us cover the costs of repairs and ensure Fringe ArtSpace continues to be a platform for Orlando’s vibrant performing arts scene. Donate today and be a vital part of Fringe ArtSpace’s inspiring comeback story.”

Donations can be made here.

What Is Orlando Fringe?

The 2024 Orlando Fringe Festival was held at the Lowndes Shakespeare Theater in Loch Haven Park, when there were more than 400 performances leading up to Memorial Day Weekend.

The Orlando Fringe Festival is the oldest Fringe in the nation, and in 2022 celebrated its 31th year. It was created in 1991 by Terry Olson (who is now the director of the Orange County Division of Arts and Cultural Affairs), Andy Anthony and Rick Kunst, and held in 1992 in downtown Orlando.

The concept was simple: a festival featuring multiple theatrical shows, mostly done in venues in empty storefronts. In 2004, the festival started to relocate to Loch Haven Park, and from 2005 on, the festival has been held entirely in that park and in nearby Ivanhoe Village. It’s the longest running Fringe Festival in the United States, a 14-day festival held in the spring. 

Michael Freeman is an Orlando journalist, playwright, and author of the book “Bloody Rabbit”. Contact him at Freelineorlando@gmail.com.

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