Fringe venue hit by new crisis

Edinburgh venue Cowgate Central has again been thrown into turmoil; this time following the resignation of its comedy promoter.

The venture has been dogged by problems since American comic Paul Wagner announced ambitious plans to open up marquees on the fire-damaged site of the Gilded Balloon during this year's Fringe.

Wagner was subsequently axed from the project, which experienced promoters said was never viable.

In the end, Cowgate Central is only offering a more modest programme in this year's festival, based in Wilkie House and the Cabaret Voltaire nightclub.

But now some performers feel a question mark hangs over even those shows, following the resignation of Corry Craig - although the venue denies this is the case.

Her exit comes after the venue struggled to get the correct licences. Comedy nights already held there have been giving away free drinks in an attempt to get around the problem.

However, this proved not to be a practical solution, and all gigs until the Fringe have been pulled.

Writing on Chortle's forums, Craig said: "I have resigned from Cowgate Central. Thanks to all of you for your support.

However, she added: "The management assure me that all Fringe shows will be running as planned."

Venue owner Thomas McAleer confirmed Craig's resignation and said: "There are no issues which will interupt the performers at all. My company is not in turmoil"

Published: 15 Jun 2004