Our Story
From the 1970s, pioneering theatre companies began to venture into the Highlands and Islands.
Notable amongst these was 7:84, who toured in rickety vans playing to tiny audiences.
They brought with them shows – including the now renowned The Cheviot, The Stag and the Black Black Oil – to appreciative audiences in some remarkable places.
In the 1980s more and more professional companies began to tour the region and gradually a small, loose-knit network of promoters developed, ably nurtured by the Arts Officer of what was then Highland Regional Council.
In 1998 this loose network formally established PAN – the Promoters Arts Network – an independent, membership-led organisation.
As the network grew, it became clear that more options for support and development were needed, which led to organisational change, growth, and the birth of The Touring Network in 2012.
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.
Network heroes
The Touring Network wouldn’t exist but for the energy, enthusiasm and skill of our founders. In particular we owe much to Duncan MacInnes, MBE, our first contracted member of staff, founder of PAN (Promoters Arts Network) and Creative Director of SEALL. The establishment of PAN was ably supported by Peter Quillam-Cane of the Highland Council Arts Office and Arts Officer Christine Stewart. The organisation’s first constitution was signed by Duncan MacInnes, William Wilson of Lyth Arts and Caroline Hewat.
The Touring Network is where it is today thanks to the hard work and contributions of past staff members. Heartfelt thanks to: Lisa Baxter, Lou Brodie, Beth Chalmers, Ali Campbell, Sophie Crabb, Kerry Duncan, Lindsay Dunbar, Jassy Earl, Sam Eccles, Fiona Fisher, Tamara Hedderwick, Teri Laing, Julia McGhee, Rhiannon McIntyre, Joanne Mclean, Gordon McKerrow, Bronwen Nixon, John Saich, Kate Wieteska, Jane Wilde.
It is also thanks to our board past and present that we have remained a well governed, member-led
organisation over the years. A full list of board members past and present can be found at Companies House but notable thanks goes to our Chairs: Jennie Macfie, Adrian Lear, Melanie Baines (interim), Christine Hamilton and Simon Hart.