The current executive director of Northern Lights Festival Boreal, Max Merrifield, has been tapped as the new artistic director of the festival.
The decision was made after Paul Loewenberg, who was artistic director of the festival for 17 years, announced this summer he was stepping down from the role.
Merrifield's family has been involved with the festival since its creation, and his mom and dad, Scott Merrifield and Vickie McGauley, were co-artistic directors of the festival in the past.
As executive director for the past four years and well over 15 years of staff and volunteer experience with NLFB, Merrifield has gained a thorough knowledge of the festival and its audience, said a press release.
"Having been such a central part of the festival for so long, Max is well poised to program a festival that balances tradition and innovation,” said the festival's board of directors, in the press release.
“We are excited to welcome him into the position.”
For his part, Loewenberg will remain active as a key member to the NLFB team, continuing to lend his expertise where it's needed.
As Loewenberg retires from his former position, NLFB is expressing a sincere thanks to him for his years of dedication to the festival and to the presentation and development of cultural events in our community.
Early bird weekend passes are now available for the 2017 edition of Northern Lights Festival Boréal, which takes place July 7-9 at Bell Park. Visit nlfb.ca/earlybird.
