MADRID, SPAIN. Originally stemming from Scotland, the Fringe Festival first arrived in Madrid last summer and has now taken place a second time under the name Fringe13. The festival combines theatre, poetry, concerts, as well as art and dance performances. Throughout all of them, the audience becomes closely connected to the artists. The main events of the festival took place at the Matadero art centre, while the rest of the program was scattered around the city.

The core concept of this year’s festival was to present art in places that are not originally destined to serve such a purpose. Rooftops, small street corners and alleys all became performance spaces, challenging the notion that only large exhibition halls can present art.

The quality of the shows varies, but there is certainly a wide spectrum of activities and genres addressed by Fringe Madrid. After all, the festival is not about events that would necessarily be praised by art critics; its mission is to focus on «casual» art, meant to encourage and inspire spectators in unpredictable ways.

Personally, I would recommend visiting several different events to get a real taste of the festival. The magic of Fringe lies in the fact that you may come across salsa dancers or jazz players on the step of your apartment. The laughter of children mixes with the sound of music, and it feels like home.

More information: Fringe Madrid. Until July 17, 2013.