NAF FRINGE DEADLINE

National Arts Festival Fringe application deadline looms on January 15, 2010.

There is just over a month to go for artists and performers to register for the bumper edition of the National Arts Festival Fringe, due to be held in the midst of the 2010 FIFA World Cup from June 20 until July 4.

To accommodate the additional planning and marketing the Festival has to embark on to make the event a truly world-class celebration of the Arts, the deadline for Fringe registrations – both performance and visual art – is January 15, 2010.

This is a month earlier than usual and whilst many artists have already submitted their forms, anyone who applies ahead of the deadline will be accommodated. “But those who get in early are more likely to get their first choice venues,” says Fringe Manager, Kate Axe Davies. “We’ve already received registrations from many Fringe regulars, but it’s also exciting to see a crop of newcomers who will making the pilgrimage to Grahamstown from across the country and internationally.”

With the support of the Eastern Cape Tourism Board, the Festival did extensive marketing to performers at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe which seems to have paid off with heightened interest from international artists wanting to stage their work in South Africa. With World Cup host city, Port Elizabeth, a mere 120kms down the road and with many South Africans taking advantage of the extended school holidays, organisers are expecting substantial audiences.

“We’re receiving more requests for accommodation and information than we usually do at this time of year,” Axe Davies said.

The National Arts Festival, now in its 36th year, has proved its sustainability and has grown to be one of the leading arts festivals in southern Africa. Its objectives are to deliver excellence; encourage innovation and development in the arts by providing a platform for both established and emerging South African artists; create opportunities for collaboration with international artists; and build new audiences.

Tickets to all Festival events – Main and Fringe – will go on sale through Computicket in early 2010.

Registration forms and the Info Booklets can be requested by hone on 046 603 1103 or on email – fringe@nationalartsfestival.co.za Online submissions can be made at www.nationalartsfestival.co.za/fringe

The National Arts Festival is sponsored by Standard Bank, The Eastern Cape Government, The National Arts Council, The National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund, The Sunday Independent and MNet.