And There's the Melbourne Fringe as Well

Traditionally, fringe festivals produce new, often experimental, cutting-edge theatre away from the traditional mainly mainstream sources. One of the best known in the world is the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and for those keeping track of these events, the New York Fringe Festival finished in August on almost the same day as the Edinburgh Fringe.

As the Melbourne International Arts Festival opens, the nearly concurrent Melbourne Fringe Festival is now more than midway through, having opened on September 26. It closes on October 14.

The Melbourne Fringe Festival heartland has traditionally been in the inner north of Melbourne, particularly the suburbs of Fitzroy, Collingwood and Carlton, but venues are spread all over the city.

Festival goers in Melbourne are thus able to combine experiences at the International Arts Festival and the Fringe.

Both festivals are big on theatre events.

• Melbourne Theatre Guide
• What to See and Do in Melbourne
• Where to Stay in Melbourne

Photo: 52 Pick Up until October 13 at The Butterfly Club, Melbourne, courtesy The Butterfly Club