The Nutrien Fringe Theatre Festival begins tonight (Thurs) with all of the venues in the Broadway area, and something for all ages. Family Fringe Days are in the park behind Victoria School from noon until 7 Saturday through Monday with dancing, bouncy castles, and the Saskatchewan Children’s Festival’s Imagination Playground among other highlights. Fringe Executive Director, Anita Smith, says the festival has come a long way since 1989, 30 years ago, when it was held in the old Duchess Street theatre venue. This year there are 33 different ticketed performances with 7 shows each for a total of 231 shows over 10 days. There are also 3 busking circles for free entertainment, and shopping along Broadway Avenue which will be closed to traffic each day from 12th Street to Main Street, from 6 to 10 weeknights and noon to 10 on weekends. Some of the ticketed acts include a comedy magic show, a horror shadow puppet show, and world class tango dancers. Parking is limited if you are planning to drive. From 8th to 14th Street and from Lansdowne Avenue to Victoria is restricted to those with area parking passes. Smith suggests carpooling, or you can take a bus and if you have a free fringe button, your ride to and from the Broadway area is free. There is also a bike valet.

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