The Vancouver Fringe Festival has announced that Duncan Watts-Grant will become its new executive director on March 8. 

Taking over from outgoing Cory Philley, Watts-Grant has a long history with the Fringe, working in the past as a stage manager, patron, and volunteer.  

“The Fringe has been a vital cultural institution in Vancouver for over 35 years,” he said in a release announcing his appointment. “The festival provides crucial opportunities and unique performing experiences for both artists and audiences. As we continue rebuilding from COVID, I’m excited to work with all the incredible people who help make Fringe so special.”

Born and raised in Vancouver, Watts-Grant attended the University of British Columbia where he received his Bachelor of Music. He’s worked in the past for Vancouver Symphony Orchestra (VSO) and VSO School of Music, focusing on outreach through special events and working closely with artists. He’s known for not only working to push for more community-focussed arts spaces in Vancouver, but also for working to make sure that theatre continues to be inclusive for all in the city. 

“We are excited to welcome Duncan as the Executive Director of the Fringe,” Vancouver Fringe Theatre Society Board president Leslie Carty said in the release. “Along with years of experience in the arts, Duncan brings a human-centered approach that puts people and community first.”