Jeff Larson

The Minnesota Fringe Festival has promoted from within to fill the job of executive director. Jeff Larson, who started as a technician in 1999 and is now associate director, will take over when Robin Gillette steps down after this year's festival.

Larson's background is management and theater. He has also directed with some small companies in the Twin Cities. He assumes the job in September. Gillette had announced in April that she was moving on after seven years with the organization. By appointing Larson, the festival assures a sense of continuity.

The Minnesota Fringe celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. In 2012, 46,284 tickets were issued for 829 performances, which makes this festival one of the largest in the country. This year's festival of theater and dance performances will be Aug. 1-11 at several venues in Minneapolis.