Brendan Simpkins
GAWLER will come alive next month, with the return of the annual Fringe Festival.
This year’s instalment will see Walker Place buzzing with activity again, following the precinct’s $2.28 million upgrade.
Due to construction works, the Fringe was forced to relocate to the Gawler Civic Centre last year.
Despite the festival’s return to its spiritual home, the Civic Centre will still play a role as a recognised Fringe venue.
Gawler Mayor Karen Redman anticipated “fun and festivities” for attendees to the Fringe.
“With the cancellation or postponement of many events last year, the 2021 Gawler Fringe will be a great opportunity for the community to come together, celebrate and support local,” she said.
“More than 20 events are on offer, so there’s bound to be an exciting event to suit your interests.
“We anticipate Gawler residents and those from surrounding areas will take advantage of a jam-packed calendar to enjoy this year’s Gawler Fringe.”
The month-long festival will kick off on February 19 with a free, opening event at Walker Place that will feature performances from Emilie Suter (Emerauld), duo Acoustic Amigos and Lily & The Drum among others.
Events taking place at the Civic Centre include a stand-up comedy gala on March 12, a circus elements workshop on February 21 and Unsung on February 20, which tells the story of women in 1960s Australia through the music of Little Patti, Marcie Jones and Renee Geyer.
Outside of the Civic Centre, events are also set to take place at Trinity College, Bacton Street Reserve at Evanston and the Prince Albert Hotel.
Local musician Mark “Crafty” Dean said he was looking forward to performing at the Fringe once again.
“I love it every year, I am a Gawler boy so it is quite heart-warming being approached by council to say ‘hey, can we hire you to do what you love doing and then it makes the local people happy?’ the answer is yes you can,” he said.
“It is a good opportunity for local people to have something to be a part of that’s not going to clock up the kilometres as much.
“You see people come out of the woodwork that you don’t see from day to day, the community spirit is there because of the events.”
Adelaide Fringe Director and CEO, Heather Croall, said “it is fantastic to see locations beyond the city embracing all the magic and fun of Fringe.
“It’s never been more important for people to support their local events and venues,” she said.
“We encourage everyone to get behind the incredible array of shows and performances, suitable for all ages, which will be rolling out throughout Gawler across February and March.
“We have created filters on our website to make it easier to find shows in your neighbourhood.”
The Festival will run from February 19 until March 21.
More details and a full Fringe program can be found at (https://www.gawler.sa.gov.au/about-gawler/events-recognition/fringe).