WELCOME TO DOUBLE-DIGITS FRINGE!

Today is the opening of the 10th Annual New York International Fringe Festival. Ah, I remember when I turned 10, (Hey, I do! Just go with me here), and how excited I was to enter the realm of double-digits. Suddenly, I really was a big boy. Well, now New York’s largest theater festival is a big boy too.

Last year, I was I was all over this massive festival, seeing I can’t even remember how many shows (close to 20?) and writing about them for Gothamist. This year? Probably not as much. Besides, it snuck up on me, you know? I mean, just because FringeNYC has been emailing me info about its pending start for weeks (months?), it’s not like I actually … OK, it’s my fault. Time to buckle down and read that enormous program guide and see what seems worthy. As I mentioned last year, I was pleasantly surprised with how much more enjoyable an experience the Fringe had become since its earlier editions, utilizing some more comfortable spaces and, at least in my limited experience, presenting not nearly as much crap.

So, especially for you non-theater types out there, go support the Fringe and New York Theater. Sure, you’ll probably see something that will make you want to rip out your eyes, but you could also just as easily discover that previously unknown and totally unexpected (and salacious) little (card-like) gem that will make your day.

P.S.: If anyone knows anything about specific Fringe shows and can make suggestions of don’t miss titles — especially the unhyped ones — please don’t hesitate to let me know.