So DC’s fringe is about to begin.  I love the wacky energy it brings to this serious city.  Funny how one ten-day performing arts festival could enliven an arts scene, but I agree with the producers: I think it has that kind of power.  Had a friend visit from out of town (New Jersey) the other day. She found the city to be uptight.  I guess it is...except when it’s not. OK, it’s not an outlandish town; it’s not a trend-setting town; it’s not a Chinese food at 4 am kinda town (though New York isn’t REALLY that either) -- but it’s charming nonetheless/somehow.  And it’s even more charming the end of July.