Thank you!

This time last week, we launched the fifth edition of Gothenburg Fringe and that fact alone, given the circumstances, was enough to celebrate.

But little did we know, just how keen you all were to get on board this year!

As organisers, we have been blown away by the support of the people of Gothenburg as unprecedented numbers of people visited the 37 shows on 3-6 September.

The support and interest shown by the audience and performers alike have shown that Gothenburg Fringe took the right steps in creating a safe and enjoyable environment for all, ensuring hygienic venues and a clear protocol which all involved respected.

Following Thursday’s opening evening, which featured a series of guided tours with live performances at Gathenhielmska Huset on Thursday, three days of live performances took place at a total of nine venues.

The diversity of shows, including theatre, music, dance, improv, film, poetry and installations, gave people reason enough to visit a live performance for the first time in months and we’re so happy you trusted us enough to come along.

At the same time, Gothenburg Fringe was the first opportunity for most of these artists within Västra Götaland to perform in front of a crowd since the global health crisis hit and 100% of ticket sales will go directly to the artists themselves. We feel very proud and lucky to have had such a fantastic programme filled with local talents and look forward to possible future collaborations.

All in all, it was an unforgettable weekend, in which we persevered in the face of trying times for the arts. The success of Gothenburg Fringe 2020 has inspired everyone involved to press ahead with ambitions to host events throughout the year, should support from local authorities and organisations be sufficient.

There is plenty of hope that the arts scene will survive this crisis and Gothenburg Fringe will be held as an example of that hope turned into concrete action.

To all of the performers, the volunteers and audience members who got involved last week, thank you so very much. We promise to strike while the iron is hot and build on the momentum you helped create, so watch this space.