Free To Play
Reimagining KidsFringe
Meet Alyson Dicey, Director of our best kept secret: KidsFringe.
“I wish more people knew about KidsFringe!” Alyson exclaims.
What’s that, you say? There’s a Fringe… for Kids? Is it new?
Nuh uh. KidsFringe began in 1988 in King Edward School Park with acts like the Little Top Circus, the Nylon Zoo, and the Crayola Creative Workshop.
The brainchild of Edmonton Fringe founder Brian Paisley, KidsFringe provides free family friendly programming in very eclectic surroundings.
Since its launch 38 years ago, KidsFringe staff have come and gone, each bringing their own vision to the proceedings. Arts and crafts, face painting, youth troupes, celebrity storytellers, even fancy water works flowing through the site.
KidsFringe has been in Alyson’s capable hands for five years. She’s become essential to Fringe Theatre and even recently accepted a year-round position as a Development Officer.
As Alyson prepares to pass the KidsFringe baton, she’s excited to share a major development: a Free to Play grant from the Edmonton Community Foundation and the Community Foundations of Canada to support the sustainability of KidsFringe.
“We’re receiving $100,000 over three years to expand and reimagine KidsFringe so that it can be more accessible and we can invite even more people in to experience free family-friendly programming,” Alyson celebrates.
This support will go a long way in ensuring KidsFringe is a secret no longer!
KidsFringe Director
“Next year we have big plans to change the layout, so this year we’re working with advisors, consultants, and Artists to talk with kids and their caregivers to help bring their dreams and big ideas to life while we envision the future of KidsFringe,” continues Alyson.
“Let’s make it much bigger! I’m thinking so big and colourful that you can see it from Outer Space!” Alyson daydreams.
That just might work!
Now meet Natalie Czar, the newly appointed KidsFringe Manager.
“Because we are growing so much, and because I have new responsibilities in the Development Department, Natalie will be supporting all our KidsFringe Staff and Volunteers,” explains Alyson. “I’ve curated the programming, but Natalie will ensure our littlest Fringers can enjoy the full KidsFringe experience.”
Natalie is no stranger to KidsFringe. Back in the day, her two children were fixtures on-site and Natalie was the dutiful parent accompanying them.
“When I saw the job listing, I thought, this is my spot. I know how to do this!” exclaims Natalie.
One thing that Alyson and Natalie agree on? Making sure EVERYONE knows about KidsFringe.
So, come to KidsFringe. You might catch a circus act, or try a dance class, or take home a keepsake craft, or learn a brand-new skill! Please note that all children attending KidsFringe must be accompanied by a caregiver, and all adults must be accompanied by a child.
“And remember, everything – and we mean everything! – at KidsFringe is free!” Alyson reminds Festival-goers.
“It’s a great place for kids to experience the arts, explore hands-on learning, and engage in free play.”
Help Shape the Future of KidsFringe!
Thanks to support from the Edmonton Community Foundation and the Community Foundations of Canada, KidsFringe is growing and evolving over the next 3 years. And we want your ideas! This year is all about listening, learning, and dreaming big with our community.
Tell us what you think! Take the KidsFringe survey and share your feedback.
