Which international organization shares these three attributes with ISPA:

• 2017 represented a significant anniversary
• Core values of inclusion and accessibility
• Commitment to developing and expanding international networks

If you guessed the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society (EFFS), you would be correct!  2017 represented the 70th anniversary of the Fringe (along with the Edinburgh International Festival) and ISPA was on hand to co-present a series of talks and events under the banner ISPA Series at the Fringe.  The first session was hosted by Lieven Bertels (CEO, 2018 Culture Capital Leeuwarden) and explored the theme Festivals: Creating Opportunities.  About 50 participants engaged in a highly interactive group discussion format exploring festivals and their role in communities.  Two subsequent talks will be held on August 16th and 22nd.

This program is one of ISPA's new regional initiatives that facilitate a presence for ISPA and its membership globally. Through these regional initiatives we are able to engage local members and non-members alike and facilitate participation on a smaller scale than undertaking a full congress.

All of us at ISPA would like to thank the team at EFFS for their support in developing and realizing the program. 

David

PS  2017 marks ISPA's 69th anniversary and we held in 100th congress!