“It was an exciting night,” said Mr Clarke. “Adelaide Fringe has a history of devising innovative and dynamic opportunities for artists and audiences alike, and through these partnerships we are able to bring these initiatives to fruition.”
The AbaF Awards recognised Adelaide Fringe’s partnerships in the following categories:
Adelaide Fringe and Alinta Energy
Thanks to a partnership between Adelaide Fringe and Alinta Energy, a cavalcade of comedians, musicians, circus performers and other entertainers brings the energy of Adelaide Fringe to Port Augusta every year. This partnership brings together festival expertise and funding to allow an economically disadvantaged community the chance to enjoy a cultural event that is now a highlight in the regional calendar.
Adelaide Fringe and Fisher Jeffries
In 2008, Adelaide Fringe and the commercial law firm Fisher Jeffries (a member of Gadens Lawyers National Practice) established a partnership to increase the presence of visual arts in the festival. Since then, the event MiniArt has evloved into stARTing Point, a single venue showcasing all visual artists in Adelaide Fringe. Fisher Jeffries' support, legal services and advice have had an impact on Adelaide Fringe as a whole and this partnership demonstrates shared objectives of engagement, creativity and thinking outside the square.
Adelaide Fringe and Rundle Mall Management Authority
This year Adelaide Fringe and Rundle Mall Management Authority partnered to deliver two community events which allowed artists to showcase their work, while at the same time enhancing life in the city. Throughout Fringe in the Mall and Adelaide Street Theatre Festival, visitation to the mall was increased, ticket sales were increased and the community benefited with large audiences enjoying vibrant free performances.
Martin Haese, General Manager, Rundle Mall Management said, “Adelaide Fringe is an outstanding community arts event and Rundle Mall is the heart of Adelaide which plays an important role in defining the social fabric of South Australia. This collaboration was a mutual success for all involved.”
Adelaide Fringe Chair Judy Potter said, “We thank the Australian Business Arts Foundation for this honour. Importantly, these awards recognise the invaluable support our partners provide which in turn assists us to stage an internationally acclaimed event that benefits the community both culturally and economically.”
Adelaide Fringe and partners are now in the running for the national AbaF Awards which will be announced in Perth on Tuesday 11 October 2011.