Fifty shows will receive £2,000 grants

Phoebe Waller-Bridge has launched a new fund to help performers bring shows to this year’s Edinburgh Fringe.

Fifty bursaries of £2,000 will be awarded, funded by proceeds from streaming the live version of Fleabag, plus other donations given to the Fringe Society which co-ordinates the festival.

Waller-Bridge, who is honorary president of the Fringe Society, said: ‘For a creative, the festival is one of the most unique places on the planet to launch work, meet other artists and be discovered by audiences, agents, producers and the media.

‘For me, today’s announcement is incredibly personal. Edinburgh Fringe gave Fleabag a game-changing platform for everyone involved and we are thrilled that the show can continue to pay it forward to the creatives of tomorrow and contribute to those who might not otherwise have the opportunity to take their work to this amazing festival.’

Shona McCarthy, chief executive of the society, added: ‘We recognise how difficult the last few years have been for the cultural sector, and today’s announcement is a very direct way for us to give some support for artists performing at this year’s Fringe.  We are massively grateful to Phoebe, and all our donors, for their generosity.’

Applications for the fund will open at midday on Friday, and more information is available here.

Published: 7 Mar 2023