So, how important is it? Do I NEED to go? What will I learn? Is it really as expensive as everyone says? How do I get booked to do slots up there? Can you run me through it from start to finish please?
See, I don't ask for much.
Edinburgh
Yes it is expensive (mainly rent), you don't HAVE to go until they point you're turning pro, and generally it's pretty hard to get spots during the fringe- most nights that put on showcase evening and open spots are arranged months in advance and are of a very high standard (they can afford to be) or they are arranged by 4 or 5 new acts all agreeing to split an hour slot. You'll learn the most from watching the multitude of fantastic pro acts.
Ian Fox is a pro at this sort of thing and he's written some good articles on fringe shows: