1 Year On
I can't believe it's a year already. So much has happened. It's a year today since I joined the team at the Woodend Barn!
We've had disagreements along the way but I don't think I've worked anywhere else with such a nice atmosphere and a genuine passion for the work. Everyone really wants to make a success of the Barn and it shows in everything we do. When your passionate you'd expect a couple of disagreements but they're never serious, just proof that we all believe in what we're doing.
It's been a really fun year though, and I've had so many highlights that it's hard to pick just a few. Certainly interviewing Lau was one of them. They're a genuinely funny group of guys, with a nice self-effacing humour and no lack of real talent. Can't say the same for my camera skills unfortunately. I also managed to record one of my favourite ballads being performed by Lau
Julie Fowlis was certainly one of the top concerts we've put on. She was just stunning. Such a wonderful, beautiful voice and a charming presence on stage.
One of my other highlights has been the launch of the Deliverance nights and the way they've been embraced by the rest of the barn team. I came from a background playing in indie bands and going to gigs by new bands from around the country and it is something I really believe can be a success. It's easier to reach a wider audience now with the internet so geographical barriers can be broken down. There's no reason why gigs in Banchory can't attract people from all over Aberdeenshire and beyond if they're special enough.
The year ahead promises to be even better. I can't wait for Roddy Woombles gig in May and we've got Meursault coming up from Edinburgh in March. Then we've got some really special events happening in September to celebrate 20 years since the first play was rehearsed at the Woodend Barn. Plus there's lots more cakes to eat in Buchanans and the prospect of a Beehive being put in the Wild Garden, not to mention a whole year of spotting more wildlife out there. Can't wait!
