Now in its 4th year, the Network of Independent Critics continues its mission of championing the works of independent publications. Offering access to the world’s most popular arts festival, Edinburgh Festival Fringe, bloggers, vloggers, journalists, critics and reporters are afforded the opportunity of being located in the very heart of this exciting world renowned festival, whilst covering a particular art form of their choice and having a means to focus on their craft without distraction. As the name suggests, individuals will also be joined by a network of fellow critics, encouraging an environment of discussion, supportiveness as well as a shared appreciation for the arts. Ahead of this year’s festival, co-founders of the initiative Laura Kressly (Founder of theatre blog The Play’s The Thing) and Katharine Kavanagh (Founder of blog The Circus Diaries) talk about how they were inspired to create Network of Independent Critics, how the initiative has supported critics taking part and independent critics Jo Trainor and Daniel Perks taking over this year’s cohort.