How to Do the Vancouver Fringe Festival Right, According to a Fringe Expert

The delightfully uncurated, always quirky Vancouver Fringe Festival turns 40 this year, so we grilled executive director and longtime Fringer Duncan Watts-Grant on his expert tips for making the most of the performing arts fest, happening September 5 to 15 on Granville Island.

1. See at least three shows.

With shows ranging from 25 to 75 minutes and tickets as low as $15 (plus a mandatory annual $10 Fringe membership), you can take a few risks. Snag tickets to a surefire bet (the one everyone’s buzzing about), an experimental pick (something weird and risky) and a wildcard (a random show that fits your schedule—sometimes the best surprises come with no expectations).

2. Bring a friend to debrief with.

There’ll be plenty to discuss… especially after the more experimental shows.

3. Eavesdrop at the Fringe Bar.

It’s an all-ages spot with entertainment, drinks and a chance to mingle with performers and fellow Fringers. Plus, you’ll hear the latest buzz on must-see shows.

4. Take notes at the opening night preview.

At the kickoff (a.k.a. Fringe4All) on September 4, you can watch 30 acts preview their shows in a couple of hours. Each act has two minutes, and if they run long, they’ll be cut off by the hilarious (and yet-to-be-made) cluck-cordion, an accordion made of rubber chickens, the fest’s unofficial mascot. What could be more Fringe than that?

The Deets

The 40th Annual Vancouver Fringe Festival

WHEN September 5 to 15

WHERE Various venues on Granville Island

COST From $15 (plus $10 annual membership fee)