Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2023: Who or what is Playbill and why is it everywhere this year?
For the past decade, I have seen 100 to 150 shows a year.
That’s the life of a theatre journalist - you are always looking for the next great play or musical.
As an enthusiast who has travelled around America, to London, and even to Russia to see theatre, I have always wanted to attend the Edinburgh Fringe.
This year, I am lucky to be going for the first time and I get to help introduce Edinburgh to Playbill.
You might have seen the name Playbill if you’ve downloaded the official Edinburgh Festival Fringe app or opened a copy of the Scotsman.
Now, what exactly is Playbill?
We’re the co-sponsor of the official Fringe app and the company behind the Playbill FringeShip, coming to Edinburgh in 2024.
In America, we’re practically synonymous with theatre.
As soon as you enter a Broadway theatre you are handed the programme.
At the top is the name Playbill, emblazoned in black and yellow.
For 139 years, Playbill has provided programmes to Broadway shows and across the US.
A performance is ephemeral, but when an audience member receives a Playbill, they are taking a part of the show home with them.
It serves as a lasting memory of their theatrical adventure.
Playbill doesn’t just contain information about a show and the people who make it.
It also has articles from celebrity interviews to behind-the-scenes features.
Playbill’s team can’t wait to see multiple shows a day
Playbill isn’t just a keepsake, it’s also a snapshot of a moment in time.
Playbill runs a daily news publication at Playbill.com covering American and international theatre stories.
Playbill has wanted to be part of the Fringe for a long time, attracted by its reputation and size.
The pandemic delayed our plans but this year our editorial team has arrived!
We cannot wait to speak with the artists who are making multiple shows each day.
Head to Playbill.com as we write about the Fringe with the eyes of newcomers.
Whether this is your first Fringe, or 15th, let’s discover some groundbreaking theatre together.
And if you are planning for next year, look up the Playbill FringeShip which will serve as a floating hotel in Leith for the 2024 festival.
Get ready Edinburgh, the team at Playbill has big plans for you!
To find out more, and to follow Playbill’s coverage of the Edinburgh Fringe, go to the Playbill website.