The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is to receive an initial £200,000 from the Scottish Government’s Expo Fund for a new initiative showcasing Scottish-based performing arts talent. 20% of the Expo Fund continues to be ring fenced for this initiative in future years.
Entitled Made in Scotland, the project is a partnership between the Fringe, the Federation of Scottish Theatre and the Scottish Arts Council. Due to launch in 2009, it will take the form of a curated showcase which will provide a platform for Scottish-based performers to present and promote their best work at the Fringe.
Dance and theatre performers involved in Made in Scotland will also benefit from the Fringe’s established links with international promoters, showcasing Scottish cultural excellence on the world stage.
Culture Minister Linda Fabiani said:
'Made in Scotland will allow talented artists who may not have otherwise been able to perform to bring their most ambitious work to the Fringe.'
Jim Tough, acting Chief Executive of the Scottish Arts Council said:
'We welcome this additional funding from the Scottish Government’s Expo Fund for Made in Scotland, which will give Scottish performers the opportunity to present ambitious work within the marvellous marketplace of the Fringe. The Scottish Arts Council looks forward to working closely with the Fringe and Federation of Scottish Theatre on this initiative to profile the best of Scottish dance and theatre.’'
Once launched for the Fringe 2009, Made in Scotland will:
- Support more Scottish-based dance and theatre companies to present their best work on an international stage.
- Raise the profile of the work of Scottish dance and theatre companies and offer them unique networking opportunities with promoters.
- Increase the number and diversity of international promoters coming to see Scottish work at the Fringe via a year round promoter development programme.
- Nurture and encourage international creative dialogue and the development of international collaborations by Scottish dance and theatre companies.
- Support international touring opportunities for Scottish dance and theatre companies coming from performances at The Fringe.
- Offer a year – round programme of training, support and advice to companies to allow them to maximise the impact of their appearance at the showcase.
A panel of distinguished Scottish and international artists and producers has been established to advise on the development of Made In Scotland and will be responsible for curating the showcase in 2009.