Matthew Cook became Brighton Dome programmer in March and is responsible for scheduling the venue’s events. Having previously worked in London venues such as the ICA and The Mall, he moved to Brighton to take up his new post.

To find out more about the Dome’s events, visit www.brightondome.org

Is there someone who inspired you to make your living in the arts?

My father, who taught me to always do what makes you happy and not necessarily what makes you feel secure.

Do you remember the first record you bought – what was it, and where did you buy it?

Sittin’ On Top Of The World by Howlin’ Wolf at Keb Darge’s legendary record stall in Camden Market many moons ago.

The blues is the cornerstone of 20th century music and we still hear echoes of it today.

Tell us about any guilty pleasures lurking in your CD or film collections – something you know is a bit naff but you can't help yourself.

Hot Stuff by Donna Summer is definitely an all time favourite.

I’m not ashamed – it is a classic, tried and tested, and I will fiercely contest any naysayers.

Do you have a favourite film? And why?

Too many to mention! I recently enjoyed I Am Love by Luca Guadagnino and Tilda Swinton, and Hunger by Steve McQueen. It’s also nice to see films like Back To The Future and Ghost- busters re-released. They were part of my staple cinematic diet as a kid and will always be dear to my heart.

Is there a TV programme couldn't you live without?

Peep Show, The Mighty Boosh, The Wire and more recently Shane Meadows’ superb This Is England ‘86. I don’t think I could live without David Attenborough and Jon Snow from Channel Four News on our screens, both legends in my book.

Is there a song or individual piece of music you always come back to?

I hear something new in Bitches’ Brew by Miles Davis every time I play it. It is definitely a divisive piece and confirmed Miles’ status as a true pioneer.

What are you reading at the moment?

Currently I’m ploughing through The Sea, The Sea by Iris Murdoch. It tells the tale of a director who leaves the London theatre to live as a recluse in a seaside cottage, only to be haunted by his ex-lovers. I’m also brushing up on my knowledge of the female writers featured in our forthcoming Storyville Women Writers’ Festival.

Do you have a favourite book?

The Corrections by Jonathan Franzen for its epic and unwavering depiction of the family dynamic.

Is there a live music or theatre experience that stays in your memory?

Pulp, Glastonbury 1995.

How do you think the economic situation has changed the way people use their leisure time?

I think that during periods of recession we have a tendency to view the arts as a luxury, not a necessity. I see it as our responsibility to continue to inspire, to educate, to entertain and to challenge. It is paramount during times like this to take risks and I believe we have the public’s support in this.

You’re relatively new to Brighton – what’s impressed you about the city so far?

Brighton is obviously a mecca for the open-minded and the creative and this only makes my job even more enjoyable. Apart from its location and beauty, it’s all about the people.

What are you most looking forward to in the Dome programme over the coming months?

We have so many great events coming up, from performances from luminaries such as flamenco legend Paco Peña, Hugh Masekela and Alex Wilson to young bloods Chrome Hoof and Acoustic Ladyland. We also have a phenomenal theatre programme featuring a truly brilliant production of Macbeth and our Christmas programme is literally packed with something for everyone.