While the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the cancellation of May’s annual, full-size Orlando Fringe Festival, the 5th Winter Mini-Fest has been announced for 2021! Taking place January 7-10, the Mini-Fest will include a mixture of streaming performances and limited capacity events.
Over 25 shows will be available online for purchase and streaming from the beginning of the Festival through January 14th. During the official four days of the event, select live performances will take place outdoors in Loch Haven Park. Three Kids’ Fringe productions (focused on family-friendly entertainment) will be available via both streaming services and limited live performances. The Festival will also feature demonstrations for Visual Fringe (a celebration of the visual arts). Any live events will occur outdoors with limited capacity with expected socially distancing.
Each evening of the Mini-Fest, patrons will have the opportunity to attend a separately ticketed “Socially Responsible Hangout.” Event participants will mingle with other Fringe fans while safely distanced throughout the Lowndes Shakespeare Center courtyard and outdoor areas. There will be a full bar available as well as food from Downtown’s Ace Cafe. While munching, guests can view four of the festival’s featured shows with special screenings. Live entertainment will be provided by Chrickery Productions and Corsets and Cuties. “We wanted to create a safe and unique in-person experience,” said Orlando Fringe Executive Director Alauna Friskics. “We miss our fans. They are more than patrons of our festival; they are our dear friends. These hangout events will be a great way to see the faces that we haven’t seen since before the start of the pandemic.”
The exact schedule and programming lineup have yet to be announced. Tickets for the 2021 Orlando Fringe Winter Mini-Fest will go on sale November 19th for Club Fringe members and November 27th for the general public. Once they are available, you can buy tickets on the event’s website, ofwinterminifest.com.
