The Ottawa Fringe Festival is facing turmoil after its executive director replaced the long-standing randomized selection process with a new two-tiered lottery system that prioritizes Indigenous, Black, and People of Colour (IBPOC) applicants. The change has sparked resignations and heated debate among artists and board members.
Background of the Change
Kate Jaimet, a local playwright and former board member, had her comedy sketch show selected for the 2024 festival through the traditional lottery. She later joined the board but resigned in November when executive and artistic director Alain Richer announced the new system. Another board member also stepped down soon after.
Under the new system, at least 25 percent of available slots are reserved for IBPOC participants. To qualify, a show's producer must be IBPOC, and at least half of the creative and performance team must also identify as IBPOC. The first phase of the lottery fills these reserved spots; any IBPOC artists not selected then enter a second lottery for the remaining 75 percent of slots.
Reactions and Rationale
Jaimet expressed concern that the system gives IBPOC artists two chances to win a spot, while non-IBPOC artists have only one. She argued that the Fringe should remain a level playing field for all independent artists. Richer, who declined an interview, stated in a press release that the response to the change has been overwhelmingly positive.
The festival cites equity as the driving force behind the change. The term IBPOC is used instead of the more common BIPOC to put Indigenous peoples first, reflecting Canadian context. The new lottery was implemented for the 2026 event.
Impact on the Festival Community
The controversy highlights broader tensions in the arts community around diversity and inclusion. Some artists support the initiative as a necessary step to address historical inequities, while others worry it undermines the random, democratic spirit of the Fringe. The festival continues to accept applications, and the outcome of the new process remains to be seen.
