Orlando Fringe invests in young artists by supporting school programs, teachers, and independent young creators who are the future of the theater industry. 

Orlando Fringe opens the festival lottery to any middle or high school aged creator that would like to stage a production at the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival in May. Application and performance fees are waived and a special lottery drawing is held to determine which artists or schools will be offered a slot in our festival. If chosen, they are given up to three performance slots and 100% of all ticket sales are returned to their program. Artists and schools are required to have their own transportation to and from the festival.

We have heard wonderful success stories from this program. One teacher shared that with the ticket sales they made at Fringe, they were able to replace a twenty-year-old soundboard that was in desperate shape. Another told us that with the funds they made, their theatre program was able to start the following school year with money in their budget for the first time. It’s these stories that energize us.

In addition to the performing spots in the festival, Fringe provides workshops to schools on their choice of topics that are led by industry professionals. We also offer mentorships for young creators to help them with producing at Orlando Fringe. Fringers of the Future is an incredible opportunity for students to perform on a world-renowned stage and make friendships and valuable connections with performers from around the globe.