RANKED by Shereen: The best ways to fringe

Ranked is a chance to get to know our team with a listicle about what makes them tick. This time we’re introducing Shereen Zink, a Strategist here at Y Station.

Shereen has been a Fringer for many years, and over time has picked up a few tips and tricks to make the most out of your time at the Edmonton Fringe Festival.

“What started as a casual perusal of the beer gardens and green onion cake stands has become a full-fledged, multi-day experience full of live theatre, outdoor entertainment, and sun-soaked conversations about the arts scene in Edmonton with friends. Fringe is the sweetest send-off to the summer.”   

-Shereen

1. Find your Fringe Patio vibe 

One of my favourite parts of the Fringe is bumping into old friends and making new ones in the beer gardens.  

Each tent has a different personality. Some are busier than others, some are rowdier than others, some are more relaxed than others, some are teeming with artists taking a break between performances—whatever you’re into, I recommend spending some time enjoying a beverage or two in each to find your best fit.  

Bonus: the beverage selection in the tents caters to more audiences than it used to, with several alcoholic and non-alcoholic options at each tent. 

2. Treat yourself to something unusual 

I always like to check out the artisans around the grounds, and I usually plan for some kind of spontaneous purchase that’s outside my comfort zone. Maybe it’s a unique piece of jewelry or a fine art print that’s not my usual tastes. Maybe it’s a glitter tattoo and a tarot card reading. You never know what you’ll find at the Fringe. Even if you don’t plan to spend any money, it’s fun to check out all the wares. 

I also like to explore new shops and restaurants in Old Strathcona while I’m there. It’s a great opportunity to see what’s new in the area and support some local businesses.  

3. Take a chance on an unfamiliar show 

There’s plenty of incredible, high-quality, highly reviewed theatre at the Edmonton Fringe, and I certainly recommend checking out something you know will be a winner. But half the fun of the Fringe is taking a risk, and what’s riskier than walking into a show sight-unseen? The time and cost commitment is low, but the potential payoff is high!  

Show up with a good attitude, and you’re likely to be pleasantly surprised! And if you’re not, you can still feel good about putting some money into the pocket of an artist who’s just out there trying their best--100% of the ticket price goes directly to the artist. 

And if I'm being honest, I love a Cringe Fringe moment. Those are the experiences we talk about the most, aren’t they? 

(Thunder Cats was great, by the way)

4. Experiment with different types of performances  

Where else do you get to experience endless types of live shows, all in one day? Dance, improv, variety, clowns, live bands, sad shows, happy shows, musicals, one-person shows, large ensembles, satire, political commentary—there's truly something for everyone. If you ask me, the more you see, the richer your experience is, and the broader your worldview becomes.  

I suggest trying out at least one new-to-you genre if you can.  

5. Take the High Level Streetcar 

In my opinion, the most efficient AND the most fun way to get from downtown to Whyte Ave during the Fringe is the High Level Streetcar.

No need to worry about parking, it’s cheaper than an Uber, the view as you travel over the High Level Bridge is unbeatable, and it runs every 20-45 minutes during the festival, depending on how busy it is.

Check out their 2024 Fringe schedule here. 

Tickets are $8 round trip, though kids and families can get discounts. Be sure to bring cash for your ticket.  

Keep in mind, the streetcar stops running at 9pm, so if you’re catching a late-night show, plan another safe way home.  

Bonus: Celebrate your birthday 

This one only applies to the Leos and Virgos, but I highly recommend planning your birthday at the Fringe if you’re fortunate enough to have been born near the end of August. My recommended birthday schedule is as follows (not for the faint of heart): 

11 am - Brunch at an Old Strathcona hot spot  

12:30 pm - Matinee show  

2 pm - Wander the Fringe grounds and catch some outdoor entertainment 

3 pm - Early afternoon show  

4 pm - Beer garden break

5:30 pm - Late afternoon / early evening show 

7 pm - Dinner at Next Act (the Critic burger, please) 

8:30 pm - Evening show 

10 pm - Beer gardens OR one more show (depending on how hungry/thirsty you are)

11:59 pm - Late Night Cabaret 

Be sure to stay hydrated, wear layers, and bring sunscreen! 

-- 

Embrace the spirit of Fringe, take a risk, uplift some artists, make connections, and experience something new this year.  

This year, you’ve also got lots of opportunities to share your feedback about the festival—there are several surveys available on the Engage app, which you can get here if you don’t already have it downloaded.   

See you on the Fringe grounds!