Tony Lankester joins from Riverside Studios

Tony Lankester as been appointed as chief executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society.

He will join the body responsible for co-ordinating the festival in early April, replacing Shona McCarthy after more than a decade.

Lankester will join from Riverside Studios in London where he has been CEO for five years. Before that he spent 12 years running National Arts Festival South Africa.

Benny Higgins, chair of the Fringe Society, said: ‘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 [in 2027], Tony’s leadership will be key in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Fringe Society and Edinburgh Festival Fringe.’

Lankester said: ‘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.

‘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.

‘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. She hands it over in great shape, and I hope to do her hard work justice.’

» Edinburgh Fringe chief quits: Shona McCarthy steps down after nine years

Published: 30 Jan 2025