City is tuning up for Royal National Mòd which returns to the Highland capital next month – the celebration of Gaelic language and music is adopting a hybrid approach by featuring online and face-to-face competitions and concerts
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A full programme for the Royal National Mòd has been unveiled ahead of its return to Inverness next month.
The Gaelic event will take place in the Highland capital between October 8 and October 16 and is adopting a hybrid approach by featuring online and face-to-face competitions and concerts.
Organisers are hoping that the celebration of Gaelic language and music will hint at a return to normality following the coronavirus pandemic.
It was founded in 1891, and the main host venue is set to be Eden Court Theatre – in the first indoor shows of this type there since 2020.
James Graham, chief executive officer of An Comunn Gàidhealach, said: “We are delighted that we can once again showcase the best that Gaelic culture has to offer at this year’s Royal National Mòd.
“The last year has certainly not been without its challenges, but to be able to bring certain elements of the Mòd back with a hybrid approach is a huge boost for the event and its community of competitors, performers and fans.
“It will be a magical moment to hear live performance ring out in Eden Court once more and we look forward to welcoming people from Inverness and across Scotland to enjoy Gaelic song and music with one another.
“The online element of this year’s programme will also allow us to reach audiences around the world and we’re looking forward to celebrating the unique language, culture and spirit of the Gaels with thousands globally.”
Highland councillor Calum Munro said: “We are absolutely delighted that the Mòd is taking place in the capital of the Highlands and the surrounding area. As we all know due to the pandemic it has been, and continues to be, rather challenging when organising such significant events, but An Comunn Gàidhealach continues to be innovative in developing a combination of hybrid competitions and events which are in-line with Covid-19 regulations.
“The Royal National Mòd is one of the most important festivals of Gaelic and culture in Scotland, therefore it is fitting that it takes place in the capital of the Highlands where there are many venues including Eden Court where most of the events will take place and is ideal for hosting key blended approach events for people of all ages.
“I look forward to viewing events online and also to attending the events during the extravaganza which celebrates our rich language and culture and will be showcased globally.”
Deputy Inverness Provost Bet McAllister is looking forward to the Mòd returning to the city for the first time since 2014.
She said: “Hosting this high-profile event in Inverness was of huge significance financially to the business community in the city.
“However, we understand that the 2021 Mòd will be different due to the pandemic and current restrictions but the blended approach will attract viewers from other areas and countries. I wish to take this opportunity to welcome the participants to the city and wish them every success.”
Shona MacLennan of Bòrd na Gàidhlig said: “Holding some of the premier competitions live in Inverness will be a huge boost to the Gaelic community and the online events will ensure that Gaelic language and culture can be enjoyed throughout the world.”
