Joan Crump

New artistic and marketing director for Sidmouth FolkWeek executive team

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CHANGE is afoot in the executive team of Sidmouth FolkWeek.

After three successful years, Joan Crump, the festival’s artistic and marketing director, is leaving the Festival to concentrate on other folk-related projects.

Joan, pictured after taking over the role in 2009, said: “It has been incredibly exciting to work for Sidmouth during this period in its development. I am very proud of everything we have achieved in the past three years, and wish the festival every success in its next chapter.”

Alan Bearman has accepted the post of artistic director, returning to the festival after a gap of seven years.

He has vast experience of directing festivals in the UK and Ireland and was artistic director of Sidmouth International Festival during its period of rapid expansion over 18 years to 2004.

A Sidmouth devotee he “feels a great affinity for the festival and town” and says he is looking forward to the challenge of continuing to build a sustainable festival, based around a unique and strong programme.

Festival director, John Braithwaite, said: “Joan’s energy and creativity have helped us make great strides since 2009.

“We are delighted that Alan has now agreed to join the team. No-one has better festival direction experience and there is the considerable bonus of his Sidmouth festival background.”