Hootananny’s

Location:  Inverness
Capacity:  150 downstairs, 120 upstairs
Programme:  Traditional Scottish/Celtic, rock and contemporary music, comedy

Director’s Statement from music programmer Brian Ó hEadhra

I think that Hootananny is a unique venue not only in the Highlands but in Scotland as a whole.  It is dedicated to providing traditional Scottish/Celtic music every night of the year, whether that be a traditional music session with local musicians or a high powered concert with an big international act.

The loss of Balnain House a few years back was a huge blow to the cultural life of Inverness locals and traditional musicians far and wide.  Hootananny has, in a way, filled that gap with a lively and welcoming concert venue for traditional music and events.  The location is great, in the centre of Inverness, and the staff and management are sympathetic to the many musicians who play there, as well as the traditional music punters who attend the events.

Hootananny is dedicated to providing quality acts whether they are local or from outwith the Highlands (we have had acts come from as far away as Australia!).  An important factor to all this is that most of the concerts and sessions are free entry or else a small ticket price.  All ages attend Hootananny as well; from 20 to 80, they all enjoy the atmosphere.  Families are welcome during the day and excellent food is served at lunch time.

Gaelic language and culture is also an integral part of the venue and any night of the year you are likely to hear people speaking the Gaelic language or singing a Gaelic song. So, if you are looking for a traditional music session or concert make your way to Hootananny and you will be given a warm, Highland welcome.  Bidh fàilte blàth romhaibh.  Slàinte!

The Arts Journal put the big questions to Brian Ó hEadhra:

When was the venue established?

Brian: Hootananny opened in July 2002.

What famous names have taken to the stage?

Brian: Shooglenifty, Chas ‘n’ Dave, Julie Felix, Session A9, Old Blind Dogs, Holmes Brothers, Albert Lee, Dochas, Croft No 5, Bruce MacGregor (plus lots of Blazin’ Fiddlers),… U2 (joking!)

What are your big ideas for the future of the venue?

Brian: Hootananny is opening two new venues upstairs.  The first floor is going to be a sofa bar with rock and contemporary music.  The second floor is slightly small and will have comedy acts and singer/songwriters.  It is an amazing venture and opens early February 2004.

Does the venue have a ghost?

Brian: I’m sure we do but I haven’t met him/her/them yet!  If they are there they have plenty of music to keep them happy!
What was your worst disaster as director?

Brian: One night we had a triple booking. It was so embarrassing.  I had just taken over booking the acts and was learning the ropes.  I’m happy to say that it is better now.

And what was your biggest triumph?

Brian: Getting Chas ‘n’ Dave was pretty special.  They are just such a piece of musical history on this island.  Lots of people travelled far and wide to see them.

If you could have any artist in the world for a one-off special, who would it be, and why?

Brian: Personally speaking I would love to have Alison Krauss, the great singer and bluegrass fiddler.  She could collaborate with some local traditional music stars.  That would be a night to remember.

Why should people look forward to visiting your venue?

Brian: Hootananny has a special atmosphere.  You always feel welcome and are guaranteed to hear class music every night of the week.  There’s nothing quite like a night at Hootananny.

Related Links

• Hootananny’s