The Fiji Fringe Festival has successfully become a key platform for local talent, with this year’s event celebrating 445 artists across various performing and technical fields, marking a significant milestone as the festival enters its second year.
With over 30 vibrant performances, the festival has not only showcased creative works but also generated more than $93,000 in payments to participating artists, reflecting a growing investment in Fiji’s creative economy. The awards night in Suva gathered a diverse audience of performers, designers, technicians, and entrepreneurs, all acknowledged for their roles in enhancing Fiji’s cultural landscape.
Hon. Manoa Kamikamica, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, SMEs, and Communications, highlighted the government’s commitment to nurturing the creative sector. He noted, “This festival is more than just a stage. It’s a platform for opportunity, economic engagement, and cultural pride,” underlining the potential of the arts to drive inclusive growth across various industries, including tourism.
Fringe Company Director, Sharleen Ali, emphasized the importance of sustainability in the arts, stating, “We’re creating more than a moment; we’re building a sustainable environment where every artist, technician, and crew member contributes to the larger vision.” Artists participating this year have expressed how their visibility increased, leading to new opportunities for broader audience engagement.
Looking ahead, the festival team plans to enhance outreach, support for artists, and community engagement in preparation for the upcoming 2025 Fiji Fringe Festival, set to take place from March 29th to April 5th. DPM Kamikamica articulated optimism about the future of Fiji’s creative economy, asserting that it begins by empowering local talent.
The ongoing success of the festival holds promising prospects for the growth and visibility of the arts in Fiji, potentially inspiring both artists and communities as cultural expressions continue to flourish.
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