The buzz is palpable for Fringe World 2024, with ticket sales already surpassing those of 2023 and pre-pandemic levels ahead of the 31-day festival officially kicking off on January 19.
Presented by Artrage under new chief executive Jo Thomas, Fringe World 2024 features 554 events in 106 venues across 34 suburbs, making it the largest arts and culture event in WA.
“I’ve been in the job three whirlwind months now and have loved learning about this great event in this great city,” Thomas said.
“It is a turbo-charged festival specifically created for Perth as an accessible open platform for artists and audiences — local and our visitors.
“Fringe equates to freedom which allows creativity to thrive, new work to be seen and artists to have a voice speaking directly to community. It is an event filled with surprise and delight.”
This year, 48 per cent of artists are local WA performers as Fringe World welcomes back an impressive number of interstate and international talent.
The Perth Cultural Centre rejuvenation project prevents the Urban Orchard being part of the festivities, with the European Foods Warehouse on Francis Street in Northbridge taking its place, transformed into new hub L’Euro Grande.
At an 804-seat capacity, it is the biggest venue Fringe World has ever had and features tiered ticketing pricing options of cabaret tables, premium and standard seats for acts including Bernie Dieter’s Club Kabarett, Hans: Disco Spektatakular, Briefs: Dirty Laundry and 360 Allstars.
Russell Square’s The Pleasure Garden entrance by the intersection of Parker and Francis Street is open for public access — providing the convenience of a direct link between the two hubs — with Parker Street also the new location for Fringe’s Lotterywest Sunday Funday on January 21.
The annual free family party will paint Parker Street and The Pleasure Garden pink with two performance stages providing a sample of Fringe World shows, roaming performers and children’s activities from 1pm to 6pm.
“Given the cost of living challenges, we have focused on providing affordable and free fun,” Thomas said.
“The average ticket price is still only $32 (same as 2017) and we have 23 free events including the fabulous family-friendly Lotterywest Sunday Funday this Sunday.
“We are poised for a sensational festival season… I can’t wait for you to see some of the fantastic artists we have on offer.”