Culture
If it's the live arts you prefer, Corran Hall presents many theatrical performances including those of Argyll Youth Theatre, which meet every Thursday between 6pm and 8pm, for any budding stars! The group was started in 1999 by a small group of 18 year olds, and they gave their first production of "The Emperor's Nightingale" the following year. Now made up of children between 8 and 18, they regularly visit professional theatres and study a series of workshops, musicals and concerts, annually performing to the public in the Hall in which they are based. Check their website for upcoming performances or further details for getting involved.
Tel: 01631 567333
Music plays a big part in the culture of the area and whilst in Oban and Lorn a visit to a local Ceilidh is a must. These traditional highland gatherings combine music and dance and offer a wonderful insight into local culture. If you can’t find a Ceilidh on during your visit then why not try the Skipnish Ceilidh House in Oban – during the summer local musicians are joined by dancers and pipers who entertain a mixed crowd of locals and visitors.
Oban is considered the home and creator of "The Royal National MOD", a Gaelic festival which focuses on promoting the study and development of Gaelic music and literature, as well as encouraging its use in every day language. The festival has run since 1892, however it didn't celebrate its centenary until 2003 as it was not held over the war years. Although most Gaels consider Oban the Mod’s home town, the festival is held in different locations each year returning to Oban every 4 years. This year’s National festival will be held from the 8th until the 16th of October in Caithness. However, every year the local Oban Mod takes place and the town is also the base for the widely acclaimed Highlands and Islands Music and Dance Festival. And don’t worry if your visit does not coincide with these events as the town’s pipe band performs regularly throughout the summer months on the pier and occasionally from McCaig’s Tower. Along with Oban Pipe Band, the Oban High School Pipe Band is also gaining national recognition and this year they took the title of Best Novice Pipe Band at the World Piping Championships in Glasgow.