Broadcaster and the former boss of Riverside Studios, Tony Lankester, is to become the new CEO of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society.
Lankester moved to the UK from South Africa in 2019, to beomce General Manager of the London-based Riverside Studios. Prior to that he spent more than a decade running the National Arts Festival South Africa.
“Edinburgh Festival Fringe occupies a rare and special place in the hearts and minds of artists the world over and it has played a formative role in so many stellar careers and millions of life-changing moments for audiences. Staying true to that legacy, while being asked to help shape and guide its future, is a privilege,” he explained.
“The arts environment is hugely challenging at the moment and the world a difficult and noisy place. Now, more than ever, there is a need for what the Fringe is and for what it can be – for artists, audiences, producers, venues, and the people of Edinburgh.”
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He takes over from Shona McCarthy who is set to leave the organisation after 9 years this Spring.
“Shona has been an inspirational, principled and passionate leader and advocate for the Fringe during some of the toughest years in its history, navigating some extraordinary challenges with diplomacy, empathy, focus and determination,” continued Lankester.
“She hands it over in great shape, and I hope to do her hard work justice.”
Before moving into arts events, Lankester started out as a journalist, working for national South African radio station SAfm, presenting its Saturday breakfast show, for 7 years.
He then moved into corporate communications at insurance giant, Old Mutual, later becoming its Sponsorship Manager. In 2007 he became CEO of South Africa’s National Arts Festival.
He was also founding Chair of the World Fringe Alliance, an informal grouping of ten Fringe Festivals which opened touring pathways for artists across the globe. He remains a Trustee of the Festival.
The move to London and Riverside Studios came as it re-opened after a 5-year redevelopment.
“I am delighted that Tony will be joining the Fringe Society this Spring,” said Benny Higgins, Chair of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society.
“Tony brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles, and his insights from both a cultural and commercial background will ensure the Fringe Society can meet the needs of the wider Fringe community. As the Fringe builds towards its 80th anniversary year, Tony’s leadership will be key in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Fringe Society and Edinburgh Festival Fringe.”
He will take up the role in April.
