Performing Arts Network and Development Agency (PANDA) are pleased to announce that our successful programme of Spotlight On events for people working in the performing arts is set to tour venues across the North West in 2010. This will allow PANDA to better meet our regional remit by improving access to our services for members based outside of Greater Manchester, building relationships with regional partners and increasing the organisation’s profile across the North West.

Spotlight On are practical information and networking events providing a broad introduction to a specific and focussed topic relevant to the performing arts today. The panel sessions are led by speakers with a broad range of experiences, backgrounds and perspectives on the topic, and the optional workshops and networking sessions enhance the learning by providing relevant, practical applications. With plenty of opportunity for discussion and debate, plus signposting for further exploration, participants can pursue the issues raised in a way which suits their own individual needs.

In 2009 we ran six Spotlight On events in Greater Manchester, which were attended by a total of 179 people. You can see details of our past events at www.panda-arts.org.uk/spotlightonprogramme.

In 2010 we are teaming up with four regional partners to deliver Spotlight On events in…

• Lancashire in March, in partnership with Nuffield Theatre, Lancaster. • Cheshire in June • Cumbria in September • Merseyside in December

Discussions are well underway to develop a programme of four stand-alone events, each focussing on a different topic which has particular relevance to the work of each partner organisation. There is also scope to slot in additional Spotlight On events around these four core dates if a particular project is programmed in or a major industry issue arises.

This year, the Spotlight On events will take place in the afternoon rather than an evening slot, to make it more convenient for members travelling from farther afield. We are also working with each of our partner organisations to tie in a ticket deal for a show on the evening after the Spotlight On.

Details of the dates, venues, topics and special linked ticket deals for all of the four Spotlight On events in the programme will be released as they are confirmed.

More information about our first Spotlight On of 2010 in partnership with Nuffield Theatre will be announced soon on the PANDA website www.panda-arts.org.uk.

If you have any suggestions for topics that you would like to see covered or speakers that you would like to see on the panel at a Spotlight On event please send your suggestions to Rachel Morton, Network Manager, on 0161 274 0626 or email rachel@panda-arts.org.uk.