About us
The Touring Network supports people across the Highlands and Islands to bring high-quality live performances to their own communities, and in doing so helps make these communities more vibrant places to live, work and visit.
Who we are
We’re a charity, made up of a diverse mix of people and organisations. Our members range from volunteer promoters, village hall committees, pub landlords, school teachers, and professional programmers, to theatre makers and producers, dance artists, musicians, agents and about-to-hit-the-road performers. Everyone is welcome.
The Touring Network is supported by a small staff team.
Our way of working
The Touring Network’s way of working – that promoters operate and programme independently, while the network acts as a central point of contact – was initiated by PAN in the 1990s.
This approach, which remains unique within Scotland, as well as England and Wales, continues to sustain and nurture a suitably diverse and eclectic range of promoters and venues.
Our Vision and mission
Our vision: Every rural and island community in Scotland, however small, has an essential and vibrant cultural life; one that is locally rooted, nationally supported and internationally recognised.
Our mission: To inspire and enable those who deliver remarkable performances in rural and island communities in the Highlands & Islands – connecting people and transforming places.
We believe in
The unique power of the live experience
We believe live performance can transform people’s lives by changing the way they see the world. It can tell stories that enact social change; tackle challenging subjects and open vital debate; it can spark joy; bring people together and immerse them in another world. It’s also a brilliant night out!
The importance of remote and rural communities
Our work is rooted in rural communities, each with their own sense of home and belonging. A thriving cultural scene shows just how places shape and are shaped by people. Everyone should have access to live performance, regardless of geography.
The vital work of our members
It’s due to the hard work and dedication of our members that the network exists – we advocate for their role in the sector and promote a culture of inclusivity, learning and sharing to support their needs. Our members are enriching people’s lives by making positive contributions to their communities. We’ve got their backs.
How we work
We bend
We are responsive to the needs of our members, our team and a changing world. We value individuals and are always learning, listening and evolving by embracing fresh thinking and new ways of working.
We are authentic
We genuinely care about the well-being of our people and their communities and want to see them flourish. We look after ourselves and our members and lift each other up. We are a welcoming, safe space to share and explore creative ideas; we encourage, inspire, and seek good in what we do.
We tread lightly
We are mindful of our impact on the planet. We minimise waste, be it of resources, money, time or energy and are conscious of our capacity. We look outward to ensure our work is considered, relevant and the best it can be, seeking quality and long-term value.
Key documents
Governance
Annual Review 23/24
Business Plan
AGM 2023 Minutes
2023-24 Annual Accounts
Policies
Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct
Disclosure Policy
Fair Work Statement
Environmental Policy
Programming Policy
Listings Policy