Eddie Barcan
Splendid Events is run by Eddie Barcan, who has approaching thirty years' professional experience of working on flagship events at all levels and has proven ability to manage a diverse range of projects to the highest standards.
Eddie built his reputation by leading the internationally renowned Cambridge Folk Festival, where up to 2016 he managed and programmed 23 consecutive sell-outs, secured national TV and radio coverage and saw the festival gain awards, including the highest possible Greener Festival Awards for sustainability. In 2019, Eddie was invited to return to Cambridge Folk Festival as Guest Artistic Director, though has now moved on again, as his range of work has diversified.
Eddie has also programmed the Avalon Stage at Glastonbury Festival since 2005, where he’s developed an identity for the stage which attracts the best folk and roots acts, huge pop-stars, Hollywood A-list celebrities and icons such at the late, great Sir Bruce Forsyth.
For over 20 years, Eddie managed the Bonfire Night Fireworks, on behalf of Cambridge City Council, as well as played key roles on the City’s Millennium Celebrations and Olympic Torch Relay and worked on a wide range of outdoor events provided by the local authority.
Splendid Events dates back to 2008, when Eddie set it up to promote a burlesque and variety night called Salon Rouge. This became a monthly sell-out for four years at The Junction, Cambridge, before he called it a day at the height of its popularity.
In 2016, Splendid Events became a full-time commitment and Eddie has since worked in a variety of roles, drawing on his extensive experience, with a range of prestigious clients on their own events and projects.
During the pandemic Splendid Events adapted, leading coaches in an international social media project for musicians, creating an Arts Council England funded Support Group for festival organisers, and work as a Creative Producer for illuminations and lighting trails.
Since the return to live events, Splendid Events is delighted to be working with clients old and new, and continues to diversify and develop.
What are people saying about Splendid Events?
Clear and concise direction...
“Splendid Events provided clear and concise direction for the University of Cambridge’s Open Eddington festival in 2017, which marked the opening of a new neighbourhood in the City.
We look forward to working with the team for
Open Eddington 2018." Splendid Events have worked on all subsequent Open Eddington and Eddington Discovery Day events.
Heather Topel
Project Director
North West Cambridge Development
An invaluable partner...
“We have been working with Eddie from Splendid Events for a few years now. Both his knowledge and experience in artist programming along with his understanding of the festival scene has made him an invaluable partner. He has helped our festival increase its foot-fall and profile and we look forward to working with him as our festival continues to grow.”
Adam Slough
Festival Director
Folk By The Oak
Diligent and efficient...
“We approached Eddie to production manage our wedding. He surpassed our high expectations. He worked with us over 8 months, listening carefully to what we wanted, responding calmly to any curve balls. He was diligent, efficient and crucially ensured we felt informed and looked after. The end result was outstanding and could not have happened without him. We would not hesitate to recommend!"