Fringe update

After an incredibly successful 25th Anniversary year, we are set to move things up another gear in 2005. We were delighted with the responses from audiences about the new brochure layout and thanks to the generosity of obdesigns the brochure is in full colour in 2005.

Two other successes of 2004 include the Fringe Float and Fringe Saturday (until it rained!). Both events were really useful to distribute our brochure and attract new audiences, so we are continuing them in 2005. Fringe Saturday will be the same, except it will be on the Sunday, and will feature music, dancing, impromptu picnicking and a chance to promote your show to the public. (Fringe Sunday 10 July 3 6pm and the Carnival 16 July 2pm).

Our Friends of the Fringe scheme launched in 2004 has received some moderate interest, which we hope to develop. This scheme generates much needed income to support the Fringe.

As a sign of how respected the Fringe is becoming, two companies were nominated for the 2004 Manchester Evening News Theatre Awards. Martin Oldfield, in The Odd Job Man, was nominated for The Best Fringe Performer and Café Coward for Best Fringe Production. This is the first time any of our shows have ever been nominated and we are delighted for both of them.

At our AGM in November Peter Low retired as Chairman of the Fringe after 15 years of diligent support, without his service the Fringe would not be what it is today. Taking on his role is John Wilson, who has been his Vice Chair for many years.

Finally, we would like to thank High Peak Borough Council, obdesigns, The University of Derby College Buxton, The Buxton Opera House and The Osborne Group for their support.