Shari Gasper
Dive into the heart of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival at Overture
April 30, 2024
“Edinburgh is one of my favorite places on Earth,” said Tim Sauers, Overture Center’s chief artistic experiences officer, upon returning from the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, held each August in Scotland’s capital. “It is an amazing environment with a cool vibe. Everybody is in town to see shows, and everybody is talking about the shows on the streets, in the pubs, in the venues.”
Edinburgh Fringe Festival is known as one of the greatest celebrations of arts and culture in the world, featuring more than 3,000 shows representing 60-plus countries in 300 venues across the city. Permanent and makeshift stages are set in theaters, auditoriums, University of Edinburgh spaces, former government buildings and historic structures. Thousands of street performers take to the outdoor stages and spaces as well in St. Andrew Square and Cathedral Square.
“The whole environment and seeing everyone come together to support the artists is truly inspiring,” said Sauers.
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Viewing works of artists from all over the world, Sauers’ mission at the Fringe is to find shows to bring to Overture. He usually sees 30-40 shows during his eight-day trip. Between shows, he makes connections with new agents, artists and producers from around the world, and holds meetings to discuss programming opportunities for Overture.
His trips to the Fringe Festival resulted in the booking of Doodle Pop (from South Korea) in the 2021/22 season, A Simple Space (from Australia) in 2022/23 and Cirque Flip Fabrique’s “Blizzard” (Canada) in 2023/24.
Now in 2024/25, for our oh-so-special 20th anniversary year, Overture patrons can get a glimpse into the electrifying energy of the Fringe, with the best of the best straight from the stages that set Edinburgh ablaze. Our three-day mini-festival, running Friday, Jan. 10 through Sunday, Jan. 12, showcases top acts from the 2023 Fringe Festival, including cutting-edge theater, side-splitting comedy, mesmerizing drag and jaw-dropping cirque acts. Join us for one performance or delight in all five!
The Kinsey Sicks
Friday, January 10, 2025, 7:30pm
Capitol Theater
For three decades, America's Favorite Dragapella® Beautyshop Quartet has delighted audiences worldwide with their award-winning cappella singing, sharp satire and flamboyant drag. With an impressive record spanning Off-Broadway, Vegas, films, albums and global tours, they've earned a devoted following for their unforgettable blend of music and comedy.
Brave Space
Sat, Jan 11 & Sun, Jan 12, 2025, 1pm & 3:30pm
Overture Hall Main Lobby
Immerse yourself in an enchanting circus adventure within a cozy tent. Witness a world of wonder unfold from a simple fabric puddle as an all-female troupe of bold acrobats captivates you with mesmerizing juggling, Cyr wheel spins, breathtaking duo trapeze acts, unique rope performances, and awe-inspiring feats of balance and strength. Trust is key in this limited 100-person experience as audience and performers co-create the show. Be prepared to sit, stand and roam in this interactive spectacle, where community and wonder merge for a fleeting, magical moment.
Shamilton
Saturday, January 11, 2025, 5pm
Capitol Theater
"Shamilton" is a hilarious twist on "Hamilton," hailed by The New York Times as “one of the top 5 comedy shows to catch.” This hip-hop improv musical promises incredible songs, moving storytelling, stunning choreography and powerhouse singing. Enjoy a laugh-filled journey where history meets improv. Lin-Manuel Miranda says, "Cease and desist!"
Baby Wants Candy
Saturday, January 11, 2025, 8pm
Capitol Theater
Get ready to laugh until your sides hurt with Baby Wants Candy, hailed by The Huffington Post as "pretty damn brilliant" and "pretty damn hilarious"! This acclaimed comedy troupe has wowed audiences worldwide with over 3,000 completely improvised musicals. With audience suggestions as their guide and a full band backing them up, each show is a whirlwind of spontaneous dance numbers, clever rhymes and jaw-dropping comedy.
Chris Grace as Scarlett Johansson
Sunday, January 12, 2025, 2pm
The Playhouse
America’s 88th-most beloved Chinese actor, Chris Grace celebrates the life of actor Scarlett Johansson. through stand-up comedy, stage combat and the songs of Tom Waits. This show reimagines what is and isn’t possible… or appropriate… in the life of an artist. Conceived and written by Grace, who you may recognize as Jerry from NBC’s “Superstore” and “Dropout TV.”
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