What's happened
The 2025 Edinburgh Festival Fringe will feature a new initiative called Shedinburgh, which pays artists to perform in a new venue, addressing accessibility and financial barriers. The festival's lineup includes established and emerging acts across comedy, theatre, and music, with a focus on inclusivity and support for new talent. The event runs in August 2025.
What's behind the headline?
The revival of Shedinburgh signals a strategic shift in the Edinburgh Fringe's approach to inclusivity. By guaranteeing payments and covering travel and accommodation, the festival directly addresses the financial hurdles faced by emerging artists, potentially diversifying the lineup and broadening its appeal. This model could set a precedent for other festivals struggling with accessibility. The emphasis on paid performances also challenges the traditional unpaid or low-paid gig culture that has long dominated fringe festivals, which often discourages new talent from participating. However, the success of Shedinburgh will depend on its ability to attract high-quality acts and sustain funding through ticket sales and grants. If it proves effective, it could reshape the festival landscape, making arts more accessible and equitable, and encouraging a new generation of performers to see Edinburgh as a viable career step rather than a risky gamble.
What the papers say
The Scotsman's coverage highlights the festival's ambitious expansion, with over 1,500 new shows announced, including a focus on accessibility and support for debut artists through the Shedload of Future Fund. Jane Bradley emphasizes the festival's efforts to 'level the playing field' by paying artists and covering costs, aiming to make participation more feasible for emerging performers.
Meanwhile, The Guardian's Robin Denselow provides historical context, noting Martin Carthy's return to Scarborough Fair and the enduring relevance of folk traditions, which underscores the festival's diverse programming. The article also discusses the broader cultural significance of supporting traditional and contemporary arts, aligning with Shedinburgh's mission to foster inclusivity.
Contrasting perspectives from The Guardian and The Scotsman reveal a shared optimism about the festival's future, though The Scotsman emphasizes the scale of the upcoming program and the variety of genres, while The Guardian reflects on the festival's historical roots and cultural importance. Both sources underscore the importance of innovative approaches like Shedinburgh in ensuring the festival remains a vital platform for artists worldwide.
How we got here
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, established as a major platform for arts and comedy, has faced increasing challenges related to rising costs and accessibility. In response, producers Francesca Moody and Gary McNair launched Shedinburgh during the pandemic as a digital event, which is now returning as an in-person festival with a focus on supporting emerging artists through paid gigs and grants. This initiative aims to counteract the financial barriers that have limited participation in recent years.
Go deeper
Common question
-
What is the Shedinburgh Festival and How Does It Support Artists?
The Shedinburgh Festival is making waves in the arts community by offering a fresh approach to accessibility and financial support for artists. As it returns this summer, many are curious about how it differs from the traditional Edinburgh Fringe and what it means for performers and audiences alike. Here are some common questions about this innovative festival.
-
What are the implications of Dr. Nesheiwat's withdrawal from the Surgeon General nomination?
Dr. Nesheiwat's recent withdrawal from the Surgeon General nomination has raised several questions about public health leadership and the political landscape. This decision not only reflects her personal stance but also highlights ongoing tensions within the Republican Party. Below, we explore the reasons behind her withdrawal and its broader implications for public health.
-
What is the Shedinburgh Festival and how does it differ from the Edinburgh Fringe?
The Shedinburgh Festival is making waves in the arts community by offering a fresh approach to accessibility and financial support for artists. Unlike the traditional Edinburgh Fringe, this festival aims to create a more equitable platform for performers. Here’s what you need to know about this innovative festival and its impact on the arts scene.
-
What is the Shedinburgh Festival and Why is it Important?
The Shedinburgh Festival is making waves in Edinburgh this summer with its unique approach to supporting artists and enhancing accessibility. As it returns, many are curious about what sets this festival apart from others, especially the renowned Edinburgh Fringe. Below, we answer some common questions about the festival, its features, and how you can participate.
-
How Does the Shedinburgh Festival Improve Accessibility in the Arts?
The Shedinburgh Festival is making waves in the arts community by addressing accessibility issues that have long plagued events like the Edinburgh Fringe. This innovative festival not only supports artists financially but also ensures that audiences can enjoy performances without breaking the bank. Below, we explore key questions about the festival's impact on accessibility and the arts.
-
What Emerging Talent Can We Expect at the Shedinburgh Festival?
The Shedinburgh Festival is making waves this summer in Edinburgh by spotlighting emerging artists and providing them with a platform to shine. With a fresh approach to festival culture, it raises questions about who the new talent is and how they are supported. Below, we explore the key aspects of this exciting event.
-
What are the key differences between Shedinburgh Festival and Edinburgh Fringe?
As the Shedinburgh Festival returns to Edinburgh, many are curious about how it compares to the iconic Edinburgh Fringe. Both festivals celebrate the arts, but they have distinct approaches and offerings. This page explores the key differences, ticket prices, types of performances, and which festival might be better for artists and audiences alike.
-
How Can I Find Affordable Tickets for the Shedinburgh Festival?
The Shedinburgh Festival is making waves this summer with its commitment to affordability and accessibility for audiences and performers alike. If you're looking to enjoy this unique festival without breaking the bank, you might have several questions about ticket options, pricing, and discounts. Here’s everything you need to know about securing your spot at this exciting event.
-
What Can Other Festivals Learn from Shedinburgh's Model?
The Shedinburgh Festival is redefining the festival landscape by prioritizing artist support and accessibility. As it returns this summer, many are curious about how its innovative approach can serve as a blueprint for other festivals. Below, we explore key questions surrounding Shedinburgh's impact and the lessons it offers to the arts community.
-
What is the Shedinburgh Festival and how does it support artists?
The Shedinburgh Festival is an innovative cultural event in Edinburgh that aims to support artists financially while addressing accessibility issues faced at the Edinburgh Fringe. This page explores the festival's unique offerings, its impact on the arts community, and answers common questions about its purpose and featured talent.
More on these topics
-
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or Britain, is a sovereign country located off the northwestern coast of the European mainland.
-
Scotland is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. Covering the northern third of the island of Great Britain, mainland Scotland has a 96 mile border with England to the southeast and is otherwise surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and w
-
Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and one of its 32 council areas. Historically part of the county of Midlothian, it is located in Lothian on the Firth of Forth's southern shore.
-
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the world's largest arts festival, which in 2018 spanned 25 days and featured more than 55,000 performances of 3,548 different shows in 317 venues.
-
Glasgow is the most populous city in Scotland, and the third most populous city in the United Kingdom, as of the 2019 estimated city population of 611,748.
-
The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.