[April 10, 2024]

Linh Lu is the Manager of Fringe Grounds Cafe. They describe themselves as a glass cliff expert, food criminal on the run, and a bimbo-in-training.

When did you start fringing?  

Fringe’O’saurus Rex! I was a lil’ Volunteer with the Beer Tents. I had always passed through the grounds during Festival, but I don’t think I was fully conscience of what that meant until I volunteered.

How would you describe your job at Fringe?

I’m the Cafe Manager. I help run the Fringe Grounds Cafe by supporting the lovely Staff who serve you coffee and fun snacks. I cheer them on and make sure Cafe Staff have everything they need. More coffee? Got it!Pictures and posts on Instagram of our loiter-positive space? Also me! It’s a bit of hospitality and service, a bit of coordination and logistics, and a lot of love for community.

What are you most excited about in your role with Fringe?

I’ve always been of the ethos that service and hospitality is like inviting someone into your home. You help them make the experience their own. I’ll help you find a spot to sit and get comfy, but ultimately the guest creates their own Cafe experience. People know what they want and it’s my job to help them make it possible.

If you could invite anyone, living or dead, to Fringe with you, who would that be and why?

Grant Morrison. Literal Chaos Mage from Scotland who’s been bending the borders between comics and reality since the early 90s and mucking up gender in their wake. They have a magical ability to expand on a story’s impact and infuse it with so much more hope, joy, and confusion. I would love to experience the already delightful Fringe with them and see how many clowning shows we can fit in one day.

What is something you are learning right now?

How to type with one hand on a laptop (currently using Dvorak left) so I can eat with my other hand.

Who or what inspires you?

The 17 metaphorical ducks that I imagine follow me around and encourage my wild ideas. They’re always asking “how” and never “why.” And honestly? That encouragement is what keeps me going.

What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?

“You’re an infinite well of chaos, joy, and love.”

What is an achievement you’re most proud of?

Being awarded the Queen’s Jubilee medal for outstanding achievement and community service to Alberta for making safer spaces and services for LGBTQ students at the University of Alberta.

What are you passionate about outside of work?

Craft cocktails, fiber arts. I work occasionally as a craft cocktail bartender and have made some fun and dubious drinks. No matter what, I’m here to make a powerful drink that is sure to get you talking. My most recent concoction was a green onion cake martini.

If joy became a national currency, what kind of work would make you wealthy?

It’s corny but working at a hole-in-the wall coffee shop. I love making drinks and have loads of fun making craft cocktails, but coffee is my first love. A perfectly steamed milk, a dark, classic roast espresso? Best pairing possible.

Anything else you’d like to say about Fringe Grounds Cafe?

Our cafe is loiter-positive – we want to support your creative work! No time limits, free Wi-Fi. So. Many. Power. Outlets. As long as we are open, we want you to stay!

Follow Fringe Grounds Cafe on Instagram