Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI)

Ensuring that a Fringe Festival is truly inclusive means taking intentional steps to create an accessible, equitable, and welcoming space for all artists, audiences, and industry professionals. Fringe Festivals have a unique opportunity to champion underrepresented voices, encourage diverse participation, and foster cultural exchange.

Programming Diversity

• Open Calls & Outreach: Actively reach out to artists from marginalised communities, emerging artists, and international performers to ensure broad representation in programming.

• Inclusive Selection Processes: Whether through open access or juried programming, efforts should be made to ensure diversity in performances, artistic styles, and cultural narratives.

• Affirmative Action Initiatives: Develop funding and support schemes for artists from disadvantaged backgrounds to help with registration, production, and marketing costs.

• Cultural Sensitivity Training: Train festival staff and volunteers to ensure programming decisions reflect a deep understanding and respect for diverse cultural perspectives.

Accessibility

• Step-Free Access & Venue Adaptations: Ensure that all festival venues provide step-free access, wheelchair seating, and accessible facilities for disabled audiences and artists.

• Assistive Services: Offer sign language interpreters, captioning, and audio descriptions to make performances more accessible.

• Sensory-Friendly Programming: Include relaxed performances with lower sound levels, controlled lighting, and safe spaces for neurodiverse individuals.

• Accessible Ticketing: Offer free or discounted tickets for carers and ensure that booking systems are fully accessible, including online and in-person options.

Community Engagement

• Partnerships with Local Groups: Work with organisations that support underrepresented communities, such as LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, disability organisations, and cultural networks.

• Festival Outreach Initiatives: Host workshops, artist talks, and open rehearsals in community centres, schools, and libraries to engage new audiences.

• Volunteer Diversity Programs: Encourage a diverse range of volunteers to get involved in the festival, offering training and mentorship opportunities for individuals from various backgrounds.

• Public Consultation & Feedback: Create open forums where artists and audiences can provide feedback on how the festival can improve its inclusivity efforts.

Funding & Support for Underrepresented Artists

• Scholarships & Grants: Provide funding opportunities for artists from low-income backgrounds, minority ethnic groups, or those facing barriers to participation.

• Residencies & Development Programmes: Establish artist residencies or mentorship schemes to help nurture emerging talent from underrepresented backgrounds.

• Reduced Fees & Free Spaces: Offer subsidised or free venue hire, application fees, and marketing support for artists who might otherwise struggle to participate.

• Example: The Hollywood Fringe Scholarship Programme

  • The Hollywood Fringe Scholarship Programme provides funding for artists from historically excluded communities to help cover festival participation costs.

  • This initiative has increased diversity within the festival lineup and enabled new voices to gain exposure.

Measuring & Reporting on DEI Success

• Diversity Data Collection: Gather voluntary demographic information from applicants, artists, and audiences to track progress in inclusion efforts.

• Annual DEI Reports: Publish annual reports on the festival’s diversity and accessibility improvements, along with future goals.

• Recognition & Awards: Consider developing an award category that recognises outstanding contributions to diversity and inclusivity within the festival.

• Continuous Learning & Adaptation: DEI is an ongoing process—regularly update policies and strategies based on audience and artist feedback.

Final Thoughts

A truly inclusive Fringe Festival is one that welcomes, supports, and actively uplifts artists and audiences from all backgrounds. By integrating DEI principles into programming, accessibility initiatives, and community engagement efforts, festival organisers can create an event that is not only artistically diverse but also socially impactful. Taking a proactive approach to equity ensures that the Fringe movement continues to evolve as a champion of free expression and inclusivity for generations to come.