16/07/2026
Big News at Paragon 📣🧡💫
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. And 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.
A hugely respected and beloved figure within Paragon and across wider arts and social care communities, Nin’s leadership has always been rooted in care, compassion, humour and a deep belief in the potential of every individual. His dedication to supporting people has gone far beyond the expectations of his role, leaving a lasting and profound impact on countless lives - one we’re sure will continue for many years to come.
He is also a pioneer in the development of Inclusive Arts Practice, helping to 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.
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 Paragon what it is today! Here’s to Nin on a joyous retirement, with all our love!
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Come celebrate with us and Nin at Jam46 • Summer Festival Dumfries & Glasgow - 27July - 7 August 🎪✨🌞🌈
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Aaaand, just to note! This announcement marks the beginning of Nin’s process of retirement, rather than the end, so there will still 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 be in and about the Paragon universe, beyond then - maybe even with his double bass in tow!
Paragon celebrates Nin's extraordinary contribution as he announces retirement as Creative Director
