A bevy of Dunedin Fringe Festival shows cancelled due to Coronavirus

Gareth McMillan, Festival Director, has outlined the latest developments and cancellations for the 2020 Dunedin Fringe Festival.

"Another day of rapid developments, and on behalf of the staff and trustees of the Dunedin Fringe Arts Trust I wish to reiterate my sympathies to everyone affected. It is heart-breaking to see the work of so many undone by circumstances beyond our control.

With our first event scheduled for Wednesday night we have decided it would be in the best interests of the community to act proactively; it is with regret that I announce the Polson Higgs Opening Night Showcase, and Fringe in the Octagon events have both been cancelled.

Further cancellations have been announced by artist produced events (see below), and we expect more to follow. The decision to cancel is a difficult one influenced by a range of factors. We support those artists who have chosen to cancel, and we also support those who are waiting for further information before confirming the best course of action.

Patrons who have purchased tickets via Ticket Rocket (Regent Theatre events) or Eventfinda (every other event) can request a refund—the ticket provider will email them details. Alternatively, the ticket price can be donated to the affected artist, many of whom are facing financial hardship. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this, especially our creative community including artists, venues, sponsors, volunteers, technicians et al.

We will provide updates daily, or as required, via our Facebook page as we consult with our stakeholders and receive the latest advice and government recommendations. We encourage anyone with concerns about the festival to contact our office info@dunedinfringe.nz. For public health information we refer you to the Ministry of Health website."

List of currently cancelled events:
- Ansia
- Brittonus
- Dear Boobs... On stage
- Eurydice
- James Nokise: God Damn Fancy Man,
- Lolsy Byrne
- Play: Ground - Te Mauri Mum and Me,
- Play:Ground - Breakfast Readings,
- Play:Ground - Tableland
- Play:Ground - Thief
- Run Rabbit
- Secret Woodland Circus
- Sine Rave
- Sisterhood (Friday session only)
- Squirt
- Sobre Rodes
- Tea Time
- Thursday

Source: Dunedin Fringe Festival Official Facebook Page

COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Notice: Eventfinda takes the health and welfare of our customers very seriously. We follow the Ministry of Health advice on COVID-19 and encourage all of our customers to do the same.