Chesham Fringe festival hopes to regenerate town centre
Organisers of an arts and comedy festival are hoping it will help regenerate a town centre by drawing visitors to the high street.The Chesham Fringe, in Buckinghamshire, features 120 live performances including local names, such as Taskmaster's Alex Horne, alongside international stars such as hollywood actor Michael Brandon.Organiser Mark Rann said the event would not use food trucks and instead visitors were being encouraged to visit local businesses instead.He said: "We want all of the people coming to enjoy this amazing event using high street venues... The cafes, restaurants and to spend their money in local shops."
The not-for-profit event is set to start on Friday and will continue at the weekend.Last year it raised £4,000 for local charities and this year is supporting Chesham Youth Centre, The Hospice of St Francis and Creative Bucks.During the festival tickets holders can view a mix of comedy, music and theatre.The weekend will feature appearances from comedians such as Richard Herring, Ed Bryne and Bobby Davro.There is also a show called Confessions of a Teletubby where actor Nikky Smedley tells stories from her time starring as LaaLaa in the show.
'Hidden gems'
Shows take place in local venues across the town including The Elgiva Theatre, Chesham Library and local pubs.Mr Rann explained that the first event last year attracted more than 5,000 people.He added: "Some people complain 'there's nothing in the high street for me'... well we're giving them something to go to."Who knows, you might find some hidden gems you didn't know were there."
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