Niteworks’ sold out last Highland fling highlights a year of musical success for Scottish Trad Music Award-nominated Eden Court Theatre in Inverness
Eden Court has been nominated for ‘venue of the year’ at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards.
Cementing a successful year of live music at the Highland theatre, the award comes just as Niteworks, Skye’s acclaimed folk-electronica band, captivated audiences with their final Highland show at Eden Court on Wednesday.
The performance marked a significant moment in the band’s 17-year history and, organisers say, in the growth of the vibrant music scene of Inverness.
Concert-goer Emma Paton described the event as “electrifying”, adding: “Seeing such an iconic Scottish band in a venue at the heart of the Highlands was really special.”
Another attendee, Caleb Wilson, travelled from Kyle of Lochalsh to see the band’s final Highland gig and said: “The atmosphere was amazing – what a send-off for the band.”
Rebecca Holt, Eden Court’s chief executive, said: “We are all thrilled that Eden Court has been nominated for venue of the year.
“Live music provides a collective experience like no other. We were proud to host Niteworks’ final Highland show, as a venue dedicated to celebrating Scotland’s rich musical heritage and fostering a sense of community through the power of music.
“By supporting Scottish artists, we not only celebrate our cultural identity but also aim to inspire future generations of musicians.”
With a year-round commitment to both traditional and contemporary Scottish music, plus internationally acclaimed bands and iconic music legends, Eden Court has become a prominent fixture in the Highlands’ live music scene.
The venue’s annual Under Canvas festival, which showcases hundreds of talented artists each summer, is a testament to this dedication, attracting thousands of visitors annually as it strives to enrich the cultural landscape of Inverness.
The past year has seen an impressive live music line-up at Eden Court, featuring the vibrant energy of Mànran, the exquisite harmonies of Fara, and the storytelling prowess of Eddi Reader.
The venue has also welcomed international stars like Rufus Wainwright and Hollywood legend Russell Crowe, further solidifying its status as the go-to destination for live music in the Highlands.
Eden Court says its diverse live music programme is clearly resonating with audiences, who are regularly filling out the venue’s 840-seated capacity Empire Theatre as well as the 430 standing capacity OneTouch Theatre, a flexible space which can be adapted for seated and standing gigs.
The “joyous communal spirit” of the Fèis Rois Ceilidh Trail and unique experiences like James Yorkston’s Tae Sup wi’ a Fifer are said to highlight the venue’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural enrichment.
Looking ahead, Eden Court has just announced an impressive line-up for the rest of the year and into 2025, featuring iconic acts such as neo-trad trio Project Smok, folk legends Lindisfarne, KT Tunstall, Calum MacPhail, Anna Massie, Status Quo’s Francis Rossi, Salt House, Capercaillie and 80s icon Paul Young - promising another year of unforgettable musical experiences.
Ms Holt added: “As Niteworks bid farewell to their Highland fans, Eden Court stands as a
testament to the power of live music, community and the unwavering spirit of Scottish culture.”
