Music Lives Here

An Lanntair is shaping the next generation of Hebridean soundmakers

- Lisa-Marie Ferla

FOR 40 years, An Lanntair has embodied its name as a beacon for culture in the Hebrides.

Founded by artist Malcolm Maclean, architect Andy Bruce and photographer Sam Maynard with the support of local artists, musicians and writers, the Stornoway arts centre and charity opened its doors on March 8, 1985 – first in the former council chambers of Stornoway Town Hall, before moving to a purpose-built building in its 20th anniversary year.

But while its surroundings have grown grander, its mission – to inspire and promote creativity rooted in the Outer Hebrides and contemporary Gaelic culture – has remained the same.

It's a mission that the centre's head of performing arts, Alex MacDonald, keeps front of mind in her programming decisions. A Lewis native (“I'm a Gaelic speaker from the sticks,” she corrects me when I ask if she's from the town), Alex is particularly well positioned to talk about An Lanntair's evolution, having risen through the ranks since joining the team in 1989.