Fringe mastermind joins Durham's Culture bid

Paul, who helped transform the Fringe into one of the world’s best breeding grounds for comic, music and theatrical talent, joins as a creative consultant and is aiming to help Durham win the new government prize which launched in July.

 

He said, “Durham is a romantic and striking city with compactness, historic beauty and opportunities to stage outstanding festivals and events. It is the perfect canvas upon which the city and county of Durham can make a major contribution to the nation’s cultural life.”

 

Paul first became involved with Durham when he advised on the development of Brass: Durham International Festival, one of the county’s biggest annual events and a two-week celebration of global brass music across all its genres and styles.

 

“Like many people I had admired Durham’s sublime city skyline for years from the seat of a passing train on route to my home in Edinburgh, but after working with the county’s cultural community, I have developed a special bond with the place and believe Durham would be a deserving winner of the first UK City of Culture title.”

 

Under his direction, Edinburgh’s Fringe effectively doubled in size between 1999 and 2007, selling over one million tickets for the first time in 2003 and repeating the feat over the next four years.

 

Paul will work alongside Durham’s bid team to develop a programme of world class festivals and events as well as helping raise the national profile of the county.

 

George Garlick, Durham County Council's Chief Executive said, “Culture professionals of Paul’s calibre are in demand worldwide and having him on board to guide our bid is a major coup. His proven creativity and expertise will be invaluable in helping Durham’s festivals, events and cultural celebrations stand out from those of our competitors.”