Are you going to the Edinburgh Fringe and don’t know where to start? Reach out to receive invaluable help and tailored support. Having worked in multiple Fringe venues in many guises, I can offer structured support, invaluable feedback and a wealth of Fringe related production knowledge.
What can I offer?
Initial Consultation
Every project begins with an in-depth consultation to discuss the client’s artistic vision, professional objectives and expectations for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Together, we develop a tailored strategy that reflects the aims, scale and ambitions of the production, while identifying realistic pathways for audience development, industry engagement and long-term opportunities beyond the festival itself.
Support also includes guidance in building a practical and sustainable Fringe budget, covering production costs, accommodation, marketing, staffing, travel and contingency planning. Advice can additionally be provided on fundraising and crowdfunding approaches, helping clients identify suitable strategies and platforms to support their project financially.
Please note that direct sponsorship acquisition and the writing of funding applications are available separately and charged at an additional day rate.
Venue Applications
I provide guidance on selecting suitable venues based on the show’s artistic style, technical requirements, target audience and financial framework. This includes discussing ticket pricing strategies where appropriate and identifying venues that align with the project’s ambitions and capacity.
Support includes preparing all required application materials, including company biographies, production details, promotional copy and show descriptions. I assist with creating strong and engaging written content that clearly communicates the project to venue programmers and decision-makers.
Services include:
- Preparing and submitting venue applications
- Creating profiles on relevant Fringe application portals
- Managing applications according to first, second and third venue preferences
- Contacting venues directly to express interest and maintain communication throughout the application process
- Following up on submissions where appropriate
- Negotiating contract terms and conditions when required
- Signing agreements on behalf of the client where authorised in advance
Logistics & Operations
I support the practical coordination of all logistical aspects required for a successful Fringe run, ensuring artists and companies can focus on the creative process while maintaining efficient operations behind the scenes.
This may include:
- Assisting with travel arrangements and airport/train transfers
- Supporting accommodation research and booking
- Coordinating local hires, purchases and production services
- Arranging freight and transportation for set, props and technical equipment
- Assisting with required insurance documentation, including Public Liability, Employer’s Liability, equipment or cancellation insurance
- Liaising with venues, suppliers and the Fringe Society to resolve operational concerns and maintain smooth communication throughout the festival
All travel, accommodation, freight, purchases and insurance costs are payable directly by the client.
Administration
Comprehensive administrative support is provided throughout the Fringe process to ensure all registrations, compliance requirements and production documentation are completed accurately and on schedule.
Services may include:
- Creating and managing show profiles on EdFringeware and Fringe Marketplace
- Registering productions with the Fringe Society where required
- Coordinating approval processes for posters, flyers and marketing materials
- Assisting international artists with visa support documentation
- Supporting Foreign Entertainers Tax procedures where applicable
- Preparing production documentation including Risk Assessments and Fire Safety Assessments
- Drafting policies such as Environmental Policies, Child Protection Policies, Codes of Conduct and Audience Release forms
- Submitting music licensing and copyright declarations including PRS and PPL documentation where legally required
- Monitoring ticket sales and generating reporting data
- Coordinating ticketing offers, discounts and promotional schemes
- Managing complimentary ticket allocations for press, industry guests and company members
Any registration fees or associated external costs remain the responsibility of the client.
Producing & Industry Development
Drawing on extensive professional networks developed through years of Fringe and international industry experience, I support artists and companies in building meaningful professional relationships and creating opportunities beyond the festival.
This includes researching agents, producers, presenters, programmers and touring bookers who may have a genuine interest in the work and creating targeted outreach strategies to maximise visibility during the Fringe.
Support may include:
- Researching and compiling industry contact lists
- Creating personalised invitations for producers, venues, programmers and press
- Managing industry communications before and during the festival
- Coordinating follow-up conversations and meetings after performances
- Tracking attendance and maintaining communication records
- Supporting post-Fringe relationship building and future touring discussions
- Preparing final contact and engagement reports for clients following the festival
- Attending selected networking events on behalf of the client where appropriate
- Advising artists on relevant networking opportunities and industry events during the Fringe
Marketing & Audience Development
I provide practical guidance and coordination support for Fringe marketing campaigns, helping clients create a clear and effective promotional strategy tailored to their production and budget.
This includes recommending experienced PR and marketing agencies where appropriate, based on previous collaborations and knowledge of the Fringe landscape, while supporting negotiations to secure competitive rates and suitable campaign structures.
Marketing support may include:
- Advising on branding and marketing materials
- Supporting the development of posters, flyers and promotional copy
- Coordinating print orders and merchandise production
- Liaising with UK-based printers and distribution companies
- Submitting press releases and production information to venues and Fringe press offices
- Assisting with outdoor advertising campaigns and large-scale promotional activity
- Advising on digital, online, radio or print advertising opportunities
- Coordinating poster campaigns and city-wide distribution
- Managing flyering teams and audience engagement activity
- Receiving and distributing marketing materials to venues and company members where required
Graphic design services can also be arranged separately if needed.
Additional Support
Alongside producing and operational management, I provide flexible support tailored to the evolving needs of each production throughout the Fringe process.
Additional services may include:
- General troubleshooting and problem solving
- Copywriting and editing support
- Sourcing guest performance opportunities
- Coordinating receptions, launch events or networking gatherings
- Providing ongoing practical and strategic advice throughout the festival period
All additional event, hospitality or staffing costs are payable by the client where applicable.
Ida Casilli 