Paris Fringe has barely started and it's already a huge success. Pitch perfect opening press night. Talent, enthusiasm and risk taking galore. How did the volunteer-run cultural festival come into being and what are its goals? Artistic Co-Director Reka Polonyi took time out of an insanely busy schedule to talk with Paris Writers News!
(see also our interview with singer, writer Sarah Tullamore!)__________PWN: How was Paris Fringe created? Who are the organizers? Their goals?
Reka Polonyi: The Paris Fringe began with the need for an accessible, international theatre platform in the capital. Dom and myself were involved in the Montmartre Dionysia organisation, which brought together anglophone theatre lovers twice a year. We soon decided to create the Fringe, and branch out further both locally and internationally.
Dom Douglas is a British playwright, and I am a French-American-Hungarian theatre director. We were soon joined by a dedicated team of theatrelovers and professionals - French, Anglophones and Maltese!
What kind of events can we attend there?
We can safely say there is something for everyone. We have dramatic pieces, comedy, stand up, physical theatre, musical theatre, cabaret, mime, immersive theatre, poetry, improvisation!
All shows are in English, bilingual French-English, or do not require language skills.
This means you can find something for anyone who is English-shy, just check out what level is required for each show.
We also have workshops for those wishing to meet and learn from our international artists, free discussions and shows; you can even drop your dirty laundry at one of our poetry events in a laundromat.'
Are all the events open to the public?
Absolutely!
How can artists and performers apply to have their work considered for the Paris Fringe?
The application process is very straightforward, with a basic form to download and complete on our website.
Our next application deadlines will be announced in the next months.
Our next application deadlines will be announced in the next months.
How many artists will be participating in events this year?
We have roughly 70 artists participating in this edition, and 20 companies. (see full program here)
How many visitors spectators do you expect?
It's a first edition, so we don't know what to expect. But we have heard of a few people coming all the way from London to see the festival! So we're staying optimistic.
How are the events financed?
Well - there is no money. We have no financial support for this year's edition. We are all volunteers, with a lot of enthusiasm and little free time left. We have been very lucky to have the support of our partner Les Feux de la Rampe, a theatre that has generously offered their space and has worked with us in promoting the festival, and providing general assistance. And we wouldn't be where we are today, if it weren't for the professionalism of our team.
Good luck on a great Paris Fringe festival! If people want to volunteer is there a place where they can contact you?
Yes! If you have some time, or even the space to put up some posters, please come by and volunteer for the festival. We're a bubbly bunch, don't be shy! Volunteers are also offered free spots to catch shows - so get in touch at : [email protected]
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For more information on Paris Fringe, please see the website. You can also follow Paris Fringe on Twitter and Facebook!
