Simply The Fest In Lochwinnoch
Excitement’s growing for the annual arts gathering that aims to bring together rural communities
IT all started as a small book event in a village hall 18 years ago. Since then, Lochwinnoch’s annual arts gathering has grown into a vibrant, two-week festival packed with cultural performances and shows that have a big impact on the local community.
This month, more than 40 events will take place in venues around the Renfrewshire village – from Alan Bissett’s critically acclaimed The Moira Monologues to performances by Fara and Capercaillie singer Karen Matheson. Venues including the village hall, parish church, library and bowling club will host author events, gigs, a visual arts exhibition, comedy, opera, workshops and shows for children.
The festival aims to showcase the area’s thriving local arts community, as well as bring visitors and income into the village. It’s also part of a movement to stage cultural events outside Scotland’s city centres.
Morag Thow, who organises the festival, says this has always been one of its key aims – to ensure the arts are available to people in more rural areas.
“Rural communities are becoming more and more rural,” Morag says. “If you want to go to an art gallery or an event then it’s quite onerous if you’re not on a main train line. That’s why we’ve made the festival bigger and bigger – to give people a chance to experience it, because the arts are so important and vital for every community and for everyone’s health. This year we also want to involve the neighbouring villages a bit more, and to make it a really accessible event.”
Organisers ensure that ticket prices are kept as low as possible – some events are free, and most events cost £10 or less. Funding has been secured from
“A lot of musicians prefer small venues – it’s more homely
the Big Lottery Fund, alongside other support from Renfrewshire Council and local businesses. The festival also relies on a team of local volunteers, who give their time and have helped Lochwinnoch to earn its reputation as the “friendly festival”.
“We had Dougie Maclean here three years ago, and he said that he absolutely adored it compared to the Sydney Opera House, which is quite impersonal,” Morag explains. “He just loved it – a lot of musicians prefer small venues, as they get a lot more of a vibe from the audience and can chat to everyone at the end. It’s much more homely.
“After all the shows the performers all go back for tea and refreshments. That’s been fantastic because you get