Burns Festival set to shrink over cash shortage

Sep 18 2009 by Stuart Wilson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

THE popular Burns an’ a’ That Festival could be cut to just three days.

The Post understands that organisers plan to slash the event in a bid to save money.

It’s believed the festival has lost some of its support from financial backers.

And committee bosses will make drastic cutbacks to preserve the event, which usually runs for 10 days.

First out the exit door is festival director Michael McDaid, whose contract was not renewed.

In its heyday, the festival has attracted top names like Jools Holland, Status Quo, Catherine Jenkins, The Proclaimers and the Saw Doctors.

But times have changed and last year’s event was blighted by a series of embarrassments.

The programme’s showpiece, Rock at the Racecourse, was pulled at the last minute after a dispute between organisers.

And one of the headline events was marred when comedienne Rhona Cameron stormed off stage due to a faulty sound system.

Now the famous festival could be streamlined just to ensure it remains in business.

And the Spiegeltent at Wellington Square, normally the centrepiece for all events, is also thought to be under threat.

Events relating to Burns will be spread throughout the year, with less emphasis put on the May festival.

A source told us: “The plan is to encourage our roots with Burns and celebrate all year round.

“It was also felt that 10 days for the festival was too long a time to attract people out every night.

“By scaling the event back in length of time, it will maximise its impact.”