Objectives: For more than two decades, the Minnesota Fringe Festival has given performers of all abilities and experience levels the chance to produce their own work and perform in front of an audience. Learn about how the festival draws record level crowds with their eclectic offerings and create your own.

Tools/Resources: Pen, paper and available art supplies.

Activity

1) Watch the segment and discuss:

a. How does the Fringe Festival create an environment where anyone can stage a show?
b. Why do you think so many people are drawn to see new and unusual work?

2) Create a proposal for a play for this year’s Fringe Festival.

a. In small groups choose a book or movie you’re going to adapt.

i. How are you going to make it original and appealing to a Fringe audience?
ii. What role are you going to play in the group? Director, writer, producer, composer, designer or actor?

b. Once the group has agreed on a concept, break away and come up with your individual plan.

i. Reconvene and share your ideas with the group.
ii. Discuss how each element will work together to create a cohesive play.