Festival had a Blas! Virtual delivery of the festival by Fèisean nan Gàidheal is commended by Highland Council’s Gaelic committee

The virtual delivery of the Blas festival by Fèisean nan Gàidheal has been commended by Highland Council’s Gaelic committee.

A programme of concerts, cèilidhs, workshops, lectures and more celebrated the music, songs, language and culture of the Highlands took place online in November due to the pandemic forcing plans to change.

A total of 23 events were delivered and 16 online workshops.

Blas is a partnership between Fèisean nan Gàidheal and the council, with support from Creative Scotland, Bòrd na Gàidhlig, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and others.

Fèisean nan Gàidheal estimated that Blas 2020 had an economic impact worth £250,000. This included the employment of 125 musicians, 11 workshop tutors, 13 freelancers providing technical expertise, the engagement of a part-time co-ordinator and a part-time PR/social media contractor, and income for several venues, accommodation providers and food outlets across the Highlands.

Analysis shows that there was initially just short of 30,000 views of the online streamed events, accessed by people across the world. These viewing numbers have since increased to more than 55,500.

Gaelic committee chairman Calum Munro said: “Blas was a very enjoyable and successful festival.

“My family bought the season ticket and the pleasure we got from it, watching together, was immense and the Gaelic element of the festival was really strong.

“Overall the online offering was a great success reaching a far wider audience than its normal reach.”

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