The Fringe Story

The Fringe Story

Tutti EventsAmateur Company

Google Tutti Events
60 minutesUnder The Arch
Discover how the Edinburgh Festival Fringe began, how it evolved, and where it might head next. In this illustrated talk, former director of the Fringe Paul Gudgin charts the festival’s extraordinary history. He revisits its origins, sharing milestones, colourful stories and defining moments, while offering insights into life at the heart of four weeks of chaos and creativity. During his tenure (1999 – 2007), it expanded rapidly, bringing plenty of creative, financial and logistical challenges. The event takes place at CODE Concepts’ wonderful new venue, The Pend, once home to the Fringe Press Office.

About Tutti Events

The Fringe Story is an illustrated talk presented by Tutti Events at Under The Arch, a new venue described as The Pend, which was once home to the Fringe Press Office. Former Fringe director Paul Gudgin charts the festival's extraordinary history, sharing milestones, colourful stories and defining moments. During his tenure from 1999 to 2007, the festival expanded rapidly, bringing creative, financial and logistical challenges. The talk runs 60 minutes, is suitable for ages 8 and over, and tickets are £10.

Why see this show?

Paul Gudgin ran the Fringe from 1999 to 2007, a period of rapid expansion — and this illustrated talk is held in a venue that was once the Fringe Press Office itself. A rare insider account of how the world's largest arts festival grew and how the chaos was managed.

Tickets

£10

Book Now
When

Friday 14 - Friday 21 August 2026

All performances at 11:00

2 performances

Duration

60 mins

Cast

1 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Venue
Under The Arch

2 Old Fishmarket Close

View on map
Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Fringe Story about?

Former Fringe director Paul Gudgin charts the Edinburgh Festival Fringe's history, sharing milestones, colourful stories and defining moments, including his tenure from 1999 to 2007.

How long is the talk?

The talk runs for 60 minutes.

What is the age guidance?

The event is suitable for ages 8 and over.

How much are tickets?

Tickets are £10.

Where does the event take place?

The event takes place at Under The Arch, formerly known as The Pend, which was once home to the Fringe Press Office.

Are there any content warnings?

No content warnings are listed for this event.

About This Performance

The Fringe Story is a spoken word performance at Under The Arch during Edinburgh Festival 2026. Running for 60 minutes, this show is part of the world's largest arts festival, bringing together performers and audiences from across the globe.

Experience the magic of live performance at Edinburgh Festival. Each show offers something unique and memorable.

Venue: Under The Arch

Under The Arch is one of Edinburgh's Festival venues, hosting a variety of performances throughout August. Located in the heart of the city, the venue is accessible by public transport and within walking distance of other Festival locations.

Tips for Attending

  • Read recent reviews for audience reactions
  • Check venue accessibility if needed
  • Allow time to find unfamiliar venues
  • Download venue apps for digital tickets

Booking Information

Ticket Prices: From £10

Age Guidance: 8+

Content Warnings: None

Book early to avoid disappointment. Popular shows sell out quickly during Edinburgh Festival.

Part of Edinburgh Festival 2026

Edinburgh Festival transforms Scotland's capital into the world's leading cultural destination every August. With thousands of performances across hundreds of venues, the festival offers unparalleled choice for culture lovers.The Fringe Story represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

Looking for more spoken word shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?

Browse all Spoken Word shows →

Similar events

More shows you might like

Loading similar events...

Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API