Thesis
Thriving on the fringe: comparative case studies of international fringe festival management
Master of Science (M.S.), Drexel University
Mar 2026
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00011378
Abstract
This thesis serves to add to the body of social research on festivals by investigating the operational methods and practices of international fringe festivals. Two in-depth case studies examine operational procedures, annual reports, and interviews with staff to understand how the operational models of these festivals create impact for artists, cities, and the contemporary arts landscape. Using a comparative case study approach, this research analyzes two international fringe festivals: the Philadelphia Fringe Festival in the United States and the Dublin Fringe Festival in Ireland. Findings suggest that fringe festival models exist along a spectrum, with different levels of access, support, and curatorial control producing distinct outcomes for artists. While the Philadelphia Fringe Festival emphasizes open participation and artist autonomy, the Dublin Fringe Festival offers a highly curated and resource-intensive model. Despite these differences, both festivals serve as important platforms for artistic development, professional networking, and community building. The study also finds that operational decisions influence the resources available to artists, the financial risks they assume, and their opportunities for career growth. Ultimately, this research highlights the importance of aligning festival operations with intended artistic and community outcomes and offers insights for organizers seeking to create sustainable, artist-centered festivals.
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Details
- Title
- Thriving on the fringe
- Creators
- Isabella Bubash
- Contributors
- Pamela Yau (Advisor)Julie Goodman (Advisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Science (M.S.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University
- Number of pages
- vi, 2-69 pages
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Arts Administration; Arts and Entertainment Enterprise; Drexel University; Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design
- Other Identifier
- 991022184676204721