Lila volunteered with the Fringe here in Victoria for the first time last summer and enjoyed it so much, that she spent the summer volunteering at Fringe festivals across Canada. We talked to her about her top shows, weird Fringe moments and what inspired her crazy Fringe journey.

What gave you the idea to travel across the country and volunteer at festivals?

My original plan for the summer was to go to Europe, but on a whim I decided to follow the Fringe, after a suggestion from a friend that I should spend some time volunteering. I sent out emails to Montreal, Toronto, Winnipeg and Saskatoon and within a week I was on the Greyhound heading to Montreal.

What were your top five shows from your travels?

I can’t narrow it down to five, but, I’ll give you my top picks. They were all great for very different reasons.

Tinfoil Dinosaur
Power Play
Little Orange Man
Underbelly
Help Yourself
Medicine
Of Mice, Morro and Jasp
pomme is french for apple

How did volunteering at the Victoria Fringe compare to other Fringes?

Victoria, being a bit smaller than some of the others, has more a family feel. As a volunteer you get to interact with staff and performers on a more personal level than the bigger festivals.

What’s the strangest thing that has happened to you while volunteering at a Fringe Fest?

That would be last year while selling tickets here at The Events Centre. Someone living in an apartment right above the box office threw up [out of their window], denied they did it, got into a yelling match with Britt Small about cleaning it up, and then apologized and came out with a bucket of water.

What is it you like about volunteering at Fringe Festivals?

I like the commaradarie. There is so much love and support amongst patrons, staff, volunteers and performers. It’s also a great way to see theatre and support the arts if you don’t have a lot of money.

What shows are you most looking forward to seeing at the Victoria Fringe?

slut (r)elvoltion
The Tenant Haimovitz
Bookworm
Lies!