DUBLIN FRINGE FESTIVAL is set to offer another exciting programme following its launch today, with some of the best domestic and international artists staging productions to celebrate political and social engagement.

Festival Director Róise Goan announced the 18 day line-up this afternoon, with this year’s festival celebrating ‘Citizen Fringe’ as its theme – turning the spotlight on the often unsung heroes of civic life: activists, whistleblowers, outsiders, women and children.

Speaking to TheJournal.ie at the launch, Goan said Irish society was currently going through “turbulent and frustrating times” and the festival aimed to mirror that experience and make sense of it.

“Themes of the city, of industry, of protest and engagement are all central to this year’s programme – particularly in light of the anniversary of the 1913 Lockout, which has resonances with the contemporary struggle.”

Ireland’s current economic situation has put the issues experienced during the Lockout a century ago into sharp focus once again, Goan said.

Thirteen, a free show by ANU Productions, builds incrementally day by day over 13 days of the festival with a series of 13 interconnecting works combining performance, installation and digital technology that allows audiences to immerse themselves in the tumultuous events. “Not to see at least some of Thirteen would be a real shame,” Goan enthused.

Other innovative artists and performances will also be aiming to tell the truth about Irish society over the 18-day festival – with returning artists, including HotforTheatre, Briefs and Taylor Mac, rubbing shoulders with fresh talent, many of whom are nurtured in the Fringe Lab, which gives emerging artists the space to grow and collaborate throughout the year.

“We want the Fringe to be a conversation starter,” says Goan. “Come and see shows with your friends – whether you go to a cafe, a pub, or home afterwards, talk about what you’ve seen. It’s about our city, it’s about our lives. Have conversations, have debates, have screaming rows… Ultimately, the Fringe should be a catalyst for social change.”

To book tickets and for more information on all the highlights in theatre, music, dance, circus and spectacle, comedy, talks, visual arts and gaming, check out the Dublin Fringe Festival website.