Norfolk And Norwich Festival Announces New Director

Following an international selection process the Director of one of Ireland's most respected and fastest-growing arts festivals is set to take the reins of Norfolk & Norwich Festival. The Board of Directors announced today that William Galinsky, Artistic Director and Chief Executive of Cork Midsummer Festival will succeed out-going Festival Director Jonathan Holloway in early 2011.

Credited with transforming Cork Midsummer Festival into one of Ireland's most ambitious and respected arts festivals, Galinsky has a background in theatre and a reputation for international collaboration and for supporting local artists and performers.

"The growth and ambition charted by Norfolk & Norwich Festival in recent years have made it one of the truly standout festivals in the UK," Galinsky said. "And I can confess to feeling just a little envious when I saw what the team were able to pack into the NNF10 programme!

"The history and geography of this stunning part of the world presents extraordinary possibilities for a Festival that I fully intend to make the most of in the coming years. It will be a privilege for me to lead Norfolk & Norwich Festival into the future."

Norfolk & Norwich Festival has seen audiences increase 1500% since 2004 under the directorship of Jonathan Holloway with over 300,000 people attending events in May 2010. Its world class programme has attracted a significant increase in the number of Under 25s and attendees from outside Norwich.

Commenting on the recruitment process, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Norfolk & Norwich Festival, Caroline Jarrold said: "That we were able to shortlist people from five different countries is testament to the esteem with which Norfolk & Norwich Festival is now held. We selected William from a pool of outstanding talent and are confident that his ambition, energy and international contacts will cement the Festival's global reputation and enduring local appeal."

Helen Lax, Regional Director at Arts Council England (East), added: "William Galinsky's reputation for international collaboration will cement NNF's reputation on the international festival stage, highlighting the vibrancy and ambition of the cultural landscape in the East of England. We're confident that he will continue to propel the Festival on its upward trajectory, attracting more visitors and investment into the region."

NNF11 runs from 6 to 21 May 2011. The full programme will be announced in early March 2011. To book tickets for highlight shows or request a Festival brochure, please visit www.nnfestival.org.uk/nnf11