The Ventnor Fringe crew have been working flat out with the build phase of the festival this week, tents are going up, the flags are out and anticipation is rising.
As you can imagine, organising a festival of this size does not come without a few obstacles along the way and earlier today the Fringe team had to announce the cancellation of one of the shows.
They explained,
“Unfortunately we’ve been experiencing a range of travel and logistics disruption over the past few days, caused by a combination of factors including flight and train cancellations, vehicle breakdowns and heatwave-related disruption.
“This has unfortunately meant we’ve had to make the very difficult decision to delay the opening of the Big Top venue. “
This will mean the cancellation of this week’s Fringe Friday gig planned for Friday (22nd July). See more detail below.
Tonstartssbandht still performing
However, it’s not all bad news because one of the bands who had been booked to play this Friday are still coming to the Island and have stepped up and offered to perform a show on Friday night.
We’ve been listening to Tonstartssbandht since they were first announced and are chuffed to hear they’re still going to be playing:
American psychedelic noise rock duo formed of Edwin and Andy White (long time guitarist in Mac Demarco’s band) Tonstartssbandht are known for their dynamic live shows, consisting of long often improvisational psychedelic jams coupled with krautrock elements.
Their studio recordings are characterised by a deliberately lo-fi and DIY approach, while also incorporating post-production effects achieved through both analogue and digital means.
Props also to Abbey Records who have also stepped up to spin their favourite tunes for the DJ set.
Where and when
Fringe organisers says they hope to have the new Big Top field in Flowersbrook open by Friday evening and the gig will take place between 8pm and 11pm.
Tickets have been priced at ‘pay what you can’ (although bear in mind the band have travelled from the USA and the Fringe) with options of £5, £10, £12 or £15.
Book now and we’ll see you there on Friday.
Other info about the cancellation
All other venues will open as planned this Friday (22nd July), including the rest of the Fringe Village.
Fringe organisers say,
“We’re so sorry to everyone affected by this delay, we’ve worked so hard to ensure this year’s event is more special than ever, but massive disruption across supply chains, Covid absences, industrial action and heatwave related issues are all combining to make challenging conditions for live events.
“Full refunds will be offered in due course to those affected and sent back to your account.
“If you have bought the double Fringe Friday ticket we will partially refund you half (£30) for the first event.”
All go for second Fringe Friday
The Fringe Friday event for 29th July, featuring Goat Girl, CHAMPS, Greg Foat and more will be going ahead as planned.
Image: © Andy White
