New Director to Drive the Fringe

New Director to Drive the Fringe

Media Release

7 August 2002

New Director to Drive the Fringe

The New Zealand Fringe Festival, ten fast years in the making, is speeding towards a milestone in 2003, with a new director in the driving seat. At the wheel of this fast festival is Tim Renner who will oversee the Fringe’s 10-year anniversary in 2003.

Drawn to this role by the diversity and scope Fringe provides, Tim describes Fringe as the "hothouse" of arts in New Zealand.

“It’s a festival that develops new, fresh talent while also developing new audiences drawn to the tasting plate that Fringe offers," Tim said.

Chair of the Fringe Festival Trust Board, Perry Walker, said the Trust Board was very pleased with the appointment of Mr Renner.

“Tim has a strong background in arts management that spans from gallery director to festival organiser. Tim's new role draws on work that he has done in the past while offering him new challenges,” Perry said.

"It is good to step out of your comfort zone and to test unchartered waters, that's my philosophy and the nature of the Fringe corresponds with that,” Tim said.

Fringe NZ 2003 is the 10th anniversary of this Wellington institution. Aptly named "Ten Fast Years", the 2003 festival promises to continue and add to the success established over the last decade.

FRINGE NZ has thrived for ten years as an open access festival that includes anyone that wants to participate, promoting vigorous creativity, providing three fast weeks where street culture meets high culture.

Tim and out going Director Glenda Tuaine are working together until 16 August when Glenda completes her contract

Mr Renner said he is keen to build on the goodwill and support that Fringe has built over the last ten years.

"Continuity and new ideas are the driving force behind the festival to come and I’ve appreciated the support Glenda has given to me during this handover period,” he said.

"The Fringe 2003 Festival 10 Fast Years" runs from 14 February - 9 March 2003.

Ends

Media Contact Tim Renner Festival Director P 04 495 8015 MOB 025 648 5562

Perry Walker Fringe Festival Trust Board Chair P 04 495 2826

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