November 15, 2017

Edinburgh, UK is the epicenter for global creativity each August when the city hosts the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe (The Fringe) for over three full weeks. Now in its 71st year, The Fringe is honored in The Guinness Book of World Records for the world’s largest arts festival. Each year thousands of performers fill hundreds of stages throughout Edinburgh to present shows of all kinds, including theatre, comedy, dance, physical theater, circus, cabaret, children's programs, musicals, opera, music, spoken word, exhibitions, events, workshops and more. In 2017 alone an astounding 53,232 performances of 3,398 shows in 300 venues took place, and Drexel students were there for every minute of it as part of the Drexel Summer Break in Scotland: Edinburgh Fringe Intensive.

"I can think of no better way to kick start your career than topping off freshman year with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe," wrote Brian Moore, Program Director for Entertainment & Arts Management and the faculty representative for each year's trip abroad. This opportunity is open to all Drexel students; past attendees have come with backgrounds in Communications, Entertainment & Arts Management, Music Industry, and Business, to name just a few. Participating students will attend lectures and workshops from Fringe Festival presenters and artists, and attend multiple performing and visual art shows. Last year in Edinburgh, Drexel partnered with New York City based Civil Disobedience Productions to market and organize their productions, an opportunity that will lead to lasting connections. "We get such high praise from our producer partners," commented Moore. "They rave about our Drexel students for their knowledge, creativity and dedication to good work."

Beyond coursework students have the chance to attend numerous networking opportunities throughout the festival. This Study Abroad program also includes day trips to sites in Edinburgh, St. Andrews, and Stirling. 

For specific program details about this year’s trip, including eligibility and cost, click here.