Fringe Fest kicks off today in Saskatoon

After construction put a damper on Broadway Avenue, this year's edition of thePotashCorp Fringe Theatre and Street Festival may be just the thing to liven it up.

"We just got a call earlier that the [construction]fence is being removed earlier this morning," said Colin Grant, one of the festival'sorganizers during an interview on CBC Radio's Saskatoon Morning.

Even though the summer has seen lighter foot traffic on Broadway Avenue, Grant said the reputation of the festival will help bring people back to the sidewalks.

"I think just having this community that's really supportive of the arts and really passionate about the arts and engaging on a personal level out on the street out in the beautiful weather we're having in Saskatoon.I think that, for itself, is enough to get people to come out and celebrate with us," said Grant.

Grant said the festival has plenty to offer and some new additions like a tent to enjoy a bite to eat complete with a stage to take in performances

"There's amazing, amazing theatre. We have over 30 food vendors as part of YXE Street Eats, we have over a hundred small vendors, everything from crafts, to visual art, to clothing, jewellery soaps. It's incredible."

The festival runs through Saturday, August 6th.