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Edinburgh Fringe director resigns

Source: List.co.uk
Date: 28 August 2008

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Jon Morgan steps down following troubled year for festival

The director of the Edinburgh Fringe is to step down after just over one year in the post.

The announcement comes just days after it was announced that ticket sales were down for the first time in eight years.

Contributing factors to the downturn in sales include competition from the televised Olympics, exceptionally poor weather, the credit crunch and highly publicised problems with the ticketing system.

In a statement, Mr Morgan, 46, said "I feel privileged to have worked for the Fringe. It is the greatest arts festival on the planet and plays an important role in developing and showcasing new performing talent on a world stage.

"However, the role of Fringe director has taken me away from my first love of producing and presenting exciting performances to audiences and my intention is to return to that more direct relationship with artists and audiences."

He added: "I have been considering this for some time, but felt it was important not to announce my departure before the festival so as not to impact on this year's festival.

"Following discussion with the board I have now decided to step down with immediate effect."

Mr Morgan previous employers include Contact Theatre in Manchester, The Scottish Arts Council and TAG Theatre Company.

Watch an interview with Jon Morgan outlining the 2008 Fringe.

More: News, Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Edinburgh Festivals, Fringe, Jon Morgan