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Plans for Asheville\u2019s 19th annual Fringe Festival in January 2021 are far from finalized, with possibilities ranging from an all-digital event to streamed performances by out-of-town artists, and locals having the option to be onstage in person. Whatever form it takes, the Asheville Fringe Society Board is committed to having a festival of some kind.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile we are open to creative ideas for safe, in-person live shows, we foresee that much of the festival will be virtual,\u201d says Jennifer Bennett, festival media director. \u201cNot only do we have in mind the safety of the artists, audiences, staff and volunteers, but several of our venues have permanently closed.\u201d<\/p>\n
It\u2019s a collective learning curve, but the fringe arts \u2014 with their DIY aesthetic, risk taking and quirky sensibilities \u2014 are known for adaptability. \u201cThere are some nonstop conversation threads among all the U.S. Association of Fringe Festivals, and right now it seems like everyone who hasn\u2019t canceled for the year is taking different approaches to virtual festivals, including Zoom, YouTube, Facebook Live, Facebook Premiere, Vimeo and Streamyard,\u201d Bennett says. \u201cThis network is full of smart, creative folks who are all learning from each other as quickly as possible.\u201d<\/p>\n