Frequently Asked Questions

What is PAN?
PAN is an independent organisation supporting its members who promote touring arts events in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.
 
How long has PAN been going?
PAN was created in 1998. It  developed from the Highland Regional Council’s promoting forum.

What area does PAN cover?
From Shetland to the very tip of the Mull of Kintyre; from the Western Isles to Moray - over half the geographical area of Scotland. Or to put it another way, the Highland, Argyll & Bute, Moray, Western Isles, Orkney and Shetland Isles Council areas.

Who are its Members?
Promoters. Some are old hands with decades of promoting experience, some are newbies.  Some are in towns but the majority are in small rural communities. Some are volunteers, some are paid employees. What they all share is a passion for promoting. 

What sorts of events do PAN members promote?
Professional arts events of all kinds including  theatre, every type of music, dance performance, comedy, spoken word, film shows, local events and ceilidhs. Here's a sample list.
  
How many events do they promote?
PAN members collectively promote over 1,000 performances each year.

Where do the performers come from?
From the Highlands and Islands, the rest of Scotland, elsewhere in the UK, Europe, and around the World. Everywhere!

What are the venues?
Though some are purpose built theatres and concert halls, most are village halls and small arts centres.  Some are equipped with lights, sound-systems and raked seating, many are far more basic but  make up for it with a warm welcome and attentive, enthusiastic audiences. More information here.

What does PAN do for promoters?
PAN provides invaluable (and enjoyable) networking opportunities at the Spring and Autumn Forums; is a source of knowledge about every aspect of promoting; informs its members about available touring companies and events; develops its members through training sessions, projects, and seminars; represents its members at regional and national level, and more.

What can PAN do for Touring Companies?
PAN is a first point of contact for information about how to tour in the Highlands and Islands. PAN will forward your details to the right promoters and venues, and can offer advice and support. For more information go to the Touring Companies page.