TAMPA| The Tampa International Fringe Festival (TIFF) has been rescheduled to July 23-Aug. 2 in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the coronavirus declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization.
The fourth annual TIFF, an uncensored performing arts festival featuring local, national and international acts, was originally scheduled in Ybor April 30-May 10.
“It is with regret that we must state that the 2020 Tampa Fringe will be POSTPONED … due to the current situation with COVID19 around the world,” organizers shared in a press release March 20. “The CDC has an 8 week recommended ban on events with 50+, and our mayor has ordered all Tampa citizens to obey the CDC.
“We feel that it is of the utmost importance that we all work together with the city on the current pandemic,” it continues. “That, combined with travel restrictions inhibiting our touring artists, and the cancellation of our sister festival, Orlando Fringe, has led us to this decision. As Festival Director Will Glenn said, ‘We are more secure in acting on a plan, rather than waiting around without one.’”
The postponed festival’s free preview night is now scheduled for July 22, preceding performances July 23-Aug. 2. “This is due in large part to the availability of our venues, with whom we’ve been speaking for the past week,” TIFF shared. “We also feel this will be late enough in the summer than hopefully this will be largely behind us, with Tampans eager for some entertainment!”
Organizers also noted that they remain excited about the forthcoming festival, with acts including comedy, theatre, burlesque, storytelling, kids shows and more. “Our theme this year is Make Magic with Us,” they noted, “and this is going to be more important than we could have known when we all need a reprieve after the current darkness.”
For more information about TIFF, visit their website. For the latest updates about COVID-19 and its impact on the LGBTQ communities in Tampa Bay and Central Florida, view Watermark’s frequently updated coverage here.
