Dr Edson Burton MBE has worked at Trinity to develop and deliver participatory arts and heritage programmes since 2010.

Edson is a distinguished writer, historian, curator, and performer. Since relocating to Bristol in 1994, he has become a prominent figure in the city's cultural and academic scenes. In recognition of his significant contributions to the arts and the community in Bristol, Dr Burton was awarded an MBE in 2023.

Academically, Edson's expertise encompasses the Transatlantic Slave Trade, Black History in the USA, and cultural continuities between Africa and the New World. He has served as a consultant and coordinator for various history projects in Bristol, including Vice & Virtue (a history of Old Market), Heart & Soul and Bridges at Trinity.

As a creative writer, Edson has an extensive portfolio that includes poetry, theatre, and radio dramas. His radio credits feature the supernatural trilogy Deacon starring Don Warrington, and his theatre writing and directing includes poetry/theatre show Curry Goat & Fish Fingers, Anansi & The Grand Prize tat Bristol Old Vic, and the 2013 site specific performance Ithaca Axis with Trinity.

Beyond his writing and academic pursuits, Dr. Burton is actively involved in curatorial and programming roles. He has curated the Afrofuturist season at Bristol's Watershed Cinema and is a member of the film programming collective Come the Revolution and Lyra poetry festival. He serves as a lecturer in the Department of English at the University of Bristol.

Edson's multifaceted career reflects his dedication to exploring and presenting diverse cultural narratives, making him a pivotal contributor to Bristol's rich artistic and historical tapestry.

Talk to Edson about: Cultural heritage programming and combined arts performances