PICTURE GALLERY: Brighton Fringe brochure launch
The evening kicked off with a performance from Lorraine Bowen, singer, songwriter, comedian and musician, who appeared on Britain's Got Talent in 2015.
And there were speeches by Mo Marsh, the Mayor of Brighton and Hove, and Julian Caddy, the managing director of Brighton Fringe.
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Hide AdMr Caddy said: "It was incredibly heart warming to see everyone braving the cold to come and celebrate the launch of the Fringe. We're so excited to share the programme we have in store for you this year. It's a real privilege to be able to work with so many talented performers, both local and international, so we hope you come along and discover some gems."
Guests were given a first look at the Brighton Fringe brochure for 2018, as well as individual programmes for venues such as The Warren, Sweet Venue and Komedia.
There will be more than 1,000 events at this year's Fringe, with 248 free events.
A public launch will be held at Brighton Station on Monday (March 5) frmo 5pm to 7pm, where there will be a flash mob of performers.
Tickets for Brighton Fringe shows go on sale today (March 1).
Brighton Fringe takes place from May 4 to June 3.
To find out more, visit: www.brightonfringe.org