Volunteer promoters advised not to panic by Scottish Arts Council
18/04/2002
Fledgling arts promoters planning to bring shows to venues across Scotland are being told Don’t Panic! by the Scottish Arts Council.
Don’t Panic! is a new guide produced by the Scottish Arts Council and aimed at voluntary arts promoters who would love to bring a small-scale show to their local hall, centre or community venue, but don’t know where to start.
Written in plain English, the guide covers all aspects of promoting shows and includes helpful tips on choosing performers; understanding the technical requirements, such as lighting, for different venues; and selling the show, as well as researching and developing likely audiences.
Although Don’t Panic! has been prepared mainly with the voluntary promoter in mind, it also includes useful checklists and suggested timetables which are of equal value to experienced promoters who may be looking to develop bigger shows or festivals.
The guide was developed following UK-wide research which looked at the provision and demand for touring arts companies. This found that most shows presented outside the main cities, particularly in rural Scotland, would not have been possible without the commitment of voluntary promoters.
Graham Berry, Director of the Scottish Arts Council said:
"The Scottish Arts Council works hard to provide more opportunities for audiences across Scotland to enjoy touring theatre, dance or music. However, we realised that many promoters or organisers who would like to get involved just didn’t know where to start.
"Duncan MacInnes has written a very thoughtful guide, which benefits both from his extensive experience and a terrific range of contacts. Don’t Panic! will not only serve the enthusiastic volunteer, but will be an invaluable reference for more experienced promoters."
Notes to editors
- Copies of Don’t Panic are available from the Scottish Arts Council Help Desk by telephoning 0845 603 6000 and are also downloadable from our website.
- Don’t Panic was commissioned by the Scottish Arts Council Dance and Drama Touring Development project and was based on original research in England and Wales by the National Rural Touring Forum.
- Duncan MacInnes has worked for 10 years as a freelance arts administrator. He established SEALL, Sleat Entertainments for All, the community-run arts promotion group on Skye and also helped set up and direct the Feis an Eilein, the Skye Festival.
Contact email(s)
media.office@scottisharts.org.uk
Issued by: Scottish Arts Council
|