'Let's spend Christmas together instead' - comedians react to Fringe cancellation

All five major festivals are cancelled.

The Edinburgh Fringe has been cancelled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, along with the International Festival, Book Festival, Art Festival and Military Tattoo.

The summer festivals, which account for over 5,000 events in the city each year with audiences of 4.5 million, have been cancelled in a joint decision announced yesterday.

Picture: David Monteith

They will return in 2021.

Comedians shared their reaction to the news of the Fringe not going ahead on Twitter.

While most were quick to support the reasons behind the decision and need to prioritise public safety, they shared disappointment and concern for jobs and the industry as a whole.

Political comedian Matt Forde said: “I’ve done it every year for ages now and love it. Creatively there’s nothing like it but mainly I’ll miss spending a month in one of the most beautiful and magical cities on earth.”

Improv comedy group The Showstoppers, also veterans of the Fringe, added: “We are deeply saddened to hear this but in the current circumstances we understand that it is the best decision.

“The Edinburgh Fringe feels like a second home to us & we know it won't be long til we are back in Auld Reekie making up musicals for you all.”

“The Edinburgh Fringe has many problems but it’s the reason a comic like me has a career; I’ve not missed it since 1999,” said Mark Watson.

As to be expected, many comedians tried to see the funny side of the cancellation.

Ivo Graham explained his master plan: “You, an idiot: laughing openly on social media about Fringe landlords who have nobody to fleece,” he wrote.

“Me, an intellectual: texting my Fringe landlord, commiserating him on the lost income, keeping him sweet for 2021.”

Sofie Hagen offered her own solutions to the problem.

“Alternatives to cancelling EdFringe,” she wrote.

“EdFringe in December 2020. We will spend Christmas together. Fun!

“Two EdFringes in 2021. July and August. Or August and September. Many ways to play this.

“EdFringe in August 2020 but everyone social distances. This one needs work.”

Ken Cheng said: “Can't believe the Fringe is cancelled where else can I spend every 15 minutes apologising to acquaintances for not yet seeing their show for an entire month.”

Katie Storey added: “I’m setting up a GoFundMe for the Edinburgh landlords who won’t be able to pay this year’s mortgage from one single monthly payment this August.”

However, some found their funny bones failing them in light of the serious impact of the decision on the industry.

“I know I’m meant to make a cynical joke about Ed Fringe being cancelled but I’m real sad about it not happening,” said Jayde Adams.

“It’s been the only reason I’ve been able to get into the comedy & acting world and I owe my entire career to that festival. Condolences to all.”