Colin Midson
Colin Midson is a literary festival programmer, creative director and publishing professional with nearly 30 years' experience working with books, writers and audiences.
He has programmed for some of Britain's best-known literary and cultural festivals, including Port Eliot, where he served as creative director, and Charleston. In 2021, he founded Falmouth Book Festival, which he continues to direct, and he has developed programmes for Rock Oyster, Good Grief Festival and a range of arts and science events. In 2026, he co-directed the inaugural Big Brue Festival at Hauser & Wirth Somerset.
Before moving into festival programming, Colin held senior publicity roles at Bloomsbury, Granta, Atlantic and Oneworld. That experience, combined with his work as an interviewer and event host, gives him an unusually broad understanding of publishing, live events and the relationships that bring them together.
Our Approach
The best festivals are more than a succession of authors promoting their latest books. They're places of discovery, conversation and shared experience, where audiences encounter new ideas, challenge their assumptions and occasionally see the world a little differently.
We believe successful programmes should reflect the character of the places in which they happen, without being confined by them. They should bring together celebrated names and unexpected voices, serious subjects and moments of pure entertainment.
Creating that balance takes editorial curiosity, an understanding of audiences and a practical appreciation of the commercial realities of running live events. That's where Bookshaped's experience across publishing, programming and publicity comes into its own.
Editorial Collaboration
Mike Jones
With a career spanning over three decades, Mike Jones is a seasoned publishing professional who has held influential leadership roles at Bloomsbury, Simon & Schuster, and Profile Books. His editorial portfolio is as diverse as it is prestigious, featuring collaborations with celebrated authors ranging from George Saunders and Patti Smith to Heston Blumenthal.Now an integral collaborator with Bookshaped, Mike applies his sharp commissioning instincts and deep market knowledge to our most complex projects. He brings a wealth of editorial wisdom to every commission, ensuring that each narrative meets the highest standards of the trade. Contact: mikejones@bookshaped.com