Paragon is delighted to celebrate the remarkable contribution of Ninian Perry, who will retire from his role as Creative Director following a lifetime dedicated to championing creativity, inclusion and access to the arts in Scotland and internationally.

As our Creative Director since 2005, Nin has been a driving force in shaping Paragon’s vision and impact, building on the work he established as the company’s Community Education Director through the 1990s. Across a storied career, he has worked tirelessly to widen access to music and dance opportunities for people with disabilities, support needs and anyone facing barriers to participation. Under his direction, Paragon’s dynamic programmes have helped countless people to discover their creativity, build confidence and equitably experience the transformative power of the arts.

A hugely respected and beloved figure within Paragon and across wider arts and social care communities, his leadership has always been rooted in care, compassion, humour and a deep belief in the potential of every individual. His dedication to supporting people, both within the organisation and beyond, has gone far beyond the expectations of his role, and we’re sure he’ll continue to profoundly impact those around him for many years to come.

As a pioneer in the development of Inclusive Arts Practice, Nin has also helped shape the way artists and organisations understand and deliver meaningful participation. Alongside his work with Paragon, he has shared his knowledge and experience through teaching in both Community Arts Practice and Music Leadership at university level. And, he has worked internationally through cultural exchange projects in India, Italy, Mexico and Japan, inspiring future generations of artists and practitioners across borders.

His journey with Paragon began long before his time as Creative Director when he first joined the original Paragon Ensemble as a Double Bass player in 1980. The ensemble performed extensively at home and abroad platforming the work of leading Scotland-based composers. Nin later took on the role of Community Education Director, establishing his commitment to making high-quality artistic experiences accessible to all and developing deep connections with people and organisations throughout the country.

He steps back from Paragon with the organisation in great health, fizzing with possibility and excitement for the coming years.

And so, as we enter this next chapter, following a period of transition, we’re also delighted to announce that Charlotte Riley Gibson has taken up the role of Creative Director. Charlotte has worked with Paragon for 14 years, leading the organisation’s operations across Dumfries and Galloway. She is hugely excited and energised to build on Ninian’s incredible legacy, and perfectly placed to lead the organisation into a bright future!

So… It's with great pride, admiration, and a dose of impending nostalgia that we extend our deepest love and thanks to Ninian for his extraordinary contribution, his unwavering commitment, and the many ways he has helped make the organisation what it is today!

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Just to note! This announcement marks the beginning of Nin’s process of retirement, rather than the end, so there will be plenty of time and opportunity to see him, congratulate him, and wind him up(!) before he steps back more fully from operational duties towards the end of the year. And he’ll very much still be in and about the Paragon universe, beyond then - maybe even with his double bass in tow!