The Scottish Arts Council (SAC) has published a detailed five-year Theatre Touring Strategy with the aim of supporting theatre practitioners and improving communication within the sector. The strategy, which was launched in conjunction with the Federation of Scottish Theatre after consultation with the sector, is designed to increase the range and reach of theatre across the whole country. Four key ambitions are highlighted in the document: improving communication between all areas of the sector, including between the producer and the audience; supporting producers; supporting promoters and venues; and encouraging a larger number and broader range of people to attend and participate in touring theatre. The report also sets out a number of specific targets for SAC including supporting a minimum of 20 productions of new work and two performances of classics each year, facilitating meetings between promoters and companies at the Edinburgh Festival, and setting up a bank of touring equipment (such as seating or lighting) for use by small-scale companies touring to poorly equipped venues.
The strategy has been developed in response to Scotlands Culture Bill, with its emphasis on cultural entitlements, and changes to the structure of SAC as it evolves into Creative Scotland. It also acknowledges the impact the successful establishment of the National Theatre of Scotland has had on touring theatre in the country. Each of the strategys aims are time-specific and will affect funding allocations within SAC. David Taylor, SACs Assistant Director Arts, said, We hope to give audiences better opportunities to enjoy high quality theatre experiences that will whet their appetites for more. By co-ordinating those experiences across Scotland, presenters and venues will be able to bring the best work to their existing audiences, as well as tempting new audiences to enjoy a greater variety of work.
Published: 26-03-2007