The Prelude

It is beginning, isn't it?

Gramophone Theatre race between shows, 2012

The first few previews are arriving in my Inbox. At this stage, they are optimistic, positive. In about a week's time, we'll see the first articles pondering whether the whole thing represents the apogee of art or its decadent nadir.

I wouldn't mind, but Glasgow has festivals on all the time. Why is the Fringe given such weight?

It's the most wonderful, eclectic celebration of performance in Europe.

It's a tourist trap. It's the avant-garde spirit.

A note to London magazines and newspapers: I am available to write an empty-headed analysis of The Edinburgh Fringe Festival following any of these ideas. Why not have someone who actually has been to the city outside of August do it this year?

Well, time to start using cut'n'paste. Here come the press releases....