FRINGE Mount Gambier is poised to deliver an incredible festival this year, with Optus coming on board as naming rights sponsor.
With festivities to start on March 22 with the vibrant Lift-Off Street Party, Optus Mount Gambier representative Craig Bruins said the business was excited to be involved.
“Optus strongly believes in local partnering and participation and 2019 will be a real highlight,” Mr Bruins said.
“Our involvement with Fringe Mount Gambier enables us to be part of very special and unique arts event within our region.
“As a local business owner and father I strongly believe in supporting this major event that captures the heart of our community and brings with it the opportunity for our town and visitors to see local and national talent live.”
Commercial Street vendors will provide food and entertainment as part of the street party launch and members of the community are encouraged to be part of the popular Pied Piper Parade.
The festival will continue with the Showcase event the following day where the Cave Gardens will come alive with exciting free arts activities for everyone to join in and performances from local and guest artists.
Local residents are also reminded to look out for ticketed and free events occurring at venues throughout Mount Gambier until March 31.
In 2018 the city came alive as 12,000 people flocked to various shows and performances and this year promises to be even more outrageous and bold.
Local artist and Fringe ambassador Louise Adams returns in 2019 to curate the Showcase event on March 23 and is excited to see strong community support for the festival.
“Seeing all our events, free or ticketed, have really strong attendance in 2018 was wonderful – it certainly helps build confidence for artists, venues, local businesses and funding bodies which in turn will help spread the word that we are creating something special here in Mount Gambier,” Ms Adams said.
“To see talented local artists perform seamlessly alongside nationally acclaimed and experienced Fringe artists from afar was thrilling.
“So many local artists, venues and audiences pushed themselves out of their comfort zone to embrace Fringe and ultimately that is what a good Fringe Festival should achieve.”
