May 7, 2014

CHANGING OF THE GUARD AT DUNEDIN FRINGE FESTIVAL  

The Dunedin Fringe Arts Trust is about to ring the changes. Paul Smith, the Fringe’s inaugural Director, is leaving at the end of July and Warren Taylor, who has served as the Trust Chairman for eight years, is standing down from his role at the AGM in October.   

“The Fringe Festival has evolved to become a major landmark in the city’s annual calendar since its inception in 2000,” said Mr Smith. 

“It’s an important platform for local, national and increasingly international emerging artists, and for established acts that operate on the margins of the main stream and beyond. It’s been a fantastic journey and it is hard to leave, but I think a change at the top is healthy and can lead to new developments and ideas which will be beneficial.”   

In recent years the role of the Director has included managing additional Trust projects such as management of the Dunedin Winter Carnival; the AMPED Music Project that connects with the city’s youth; and the very popular Pecha Kucha nights.   

The increasing success of the Fringe Festival in attracting a diverse range of acts is appealing to a steadily growing audience. This year, over 300 events drew an audience of about 10,000 over ten days. Much employment is generated and the economic impact for the city is considerable.   

“On behalf of the Trust, I wish to extend a heartfelt vote of thanks to Paul and also to his many employees over the years,” said Mr Taylor. 

“They have shown the highest level of dedication and passion, without which the Festival and our other projects would never have come into being. Paul’s vision has been central to establishing an instantly recognizable brand throughout New Zealand and now internationally.”   

The Trust appreciates the vast and consistent support of Fringe audiences, funding agencies, sponsors and volunteers. Collectively, they provide a huge vote of confidence and ensure a bright future.   

Applications for the position will be received from 2 June and close on 13 June 2014.

More information will be available on the Trust’s website www.dunedinfringe.org.nz before the end of May.   

For further information please contact: 
Warren Taylor
Chairman
Dunedin Fringe Arts Trust
PO Box 1311
DUNEDIN  
Mobile: 0274 790497 Email: warrent@xtra.co.nz