As the Edinburgh Fringe approaches, many performers and creators find themselves grappling with a blend of excitement and anxiety often dubbed the “pre-Fringe panic.”
This period I find a bit fascinating and rather strange, filled as it can be with last-minute preparations and high expectations, can lead to worries about readiness, reception, and self-doubt. Alongside the adrenaline, some experience a downturn, a feeling of overwhelm or emotional exhaustion before the show even begins.
Understanding and managing these feelings is vital for maintaining health and wellbeing during this intense time.
Acknowledging pre-Fringe stress and depression without judgment allows performers to build resilience and cultivate practical strategies to cope. This article explores common emotional challenges faced in the lead-up to the Fringe, offering insights and gentle approaches to help artists navigate the pressure, calm nerves, and sustain their mental and emotional balance through the festival and beyond.
Watch the video as FringeReview editor, Paul Levy takes an early morning stroll in Edinburgh during week zero, the week before the offical start of the Edinburgh Fringe …
