The Floating Stage
Unique Entertainment Venue on the Lowland Canal Network
Our Vision
Imagine if ... there was a unique entertainment venue, capable of being re-positioned to various locations along the banks of a canal.
Imagine if ... that facility could be made available to both budding entertainers and professionals alike, to put on shows for local communities.
Imagine if ... professional artists, actors, musicians and bands had a facility to bring their skills and entertainment to local communities
Imagine if ... all this could be provided, allowing social enterprise groups, schools, local organisations, am-dram societies, dance schools, musical & theatre groups, to improve their skills, raise funds, and publicise their shows etc.
All the above and more is included in the proposal to create "The Floating Stage" ~ a volunteer operated "not for profit" charity to organise and run the facility for the benefit of literally thousands.
Your help could make this vision a reality.
Imagine if ... that facility could be made available to both budding entertainers and professionals alike, to put on shows for local communities.
Imagine if ... professional artists, actors, musicians and bands had a facility to bring their skills and entertainment to local communities
Imagine if ... all this could be provided, allowing social enterprise groups, schools, local organisations, am-dram societies, dance schools, musical & theatre groups, to improve their skills, raise funds, and publicise their shows etc.
All the above and more is included in the proposal to create "The Floating Stage" ~ a volunteer operated "not for profit" charity to organise and run the facility for the benefit of literally thousands.
Your help could make this vision a reality.
The Proposal
Our Proposal is to form a new "not for profit" charity to run and operate "The Floating Stage" ~ a unique venue that can be moored at numerous positions along the Union and Forth & Clyde Canals, providing a performance facility for amateur, semi & professional entertainers.
"The Floating Stage" (to be operated by volunteers) will serve all the villages, towns and communities along the combined 66 miles of the two canals between Edinburgh & Glasgow including prominent locations such as The Falkirk Wheel, The Kelpies, Edinburgh Quay, Kirkintilloch and Spiers Wharf, Glasgow
It is proposed that the facility could be used by community organisations either free, or at a very low cost. Financial surpluses will however be reinvested to enhance / expand the project, and to support local causes, social enterprise, special needs, etc.
"The Floating Stage" (to be operated by volunteers) will serve all the villages, towns and communities along the combined 66 miles of the two canals between Edinburgh & Glasgow including prominent locations such as The Falkirk Wheel, The Kelpies, Edinburgh Quay, Kirkintilloch and Spiers Wharf, Glasgow
It is proposed that the facility could be used by community organisations either free, or at a very low cost. Financial surpluses will however be reinvested to enhance / expand the project, and to support local causes, social enterprise, special needs, etc.
F.A.Q's
What is The Floating Stage ?
The Floating Stage is a brand new initiative to provide a unique venue that can be towed and positioned at various locations along the 66 miles of the Union and Forth & Clyde Canals, linking Edinburgh to Glasgow, and all points in between.
Who can use The Floating Stage ?
The Floating Stage will be made available to all performers of all genres of entertainment, be they amateur, semi professional and professional.
Will there be a cost to use The Floating Stage ?
Costs are going to be kept to an absolute minimum. It is envisaged that community organisations and charities can use the stage for no (or little) cost, while some organisations will be asked to pay a donation for the use of the facility. It is proposed that if an organisation is charging ticket admission, then a small proportion of the ticket price should be donated to The Floating Stage project.
Where will funds collected by The Floating Stage be used ?
The Floating Stage is being set up as a "Not for Profit" Charity (SCIO). Any surpluses will be reinvested to enhance or expand the project, or to support other charitable and Social Enterprise organisations / facilities
Who will benefit from The Floating Stage project ?
In addition to the Performers and organisations having the use of this unique venue, Local Communities, Social Enterprise, 3rd sector organisations etc. will all benefit from The Floating Stage visiting their location.
Who will be running the project ?
The project will be run by volunteers, who will be responsible for all the movement, location management, and positioning of the facility.
There will be a board of Trustees and a management committee ensuring the smooth running of the organisation, and compliance at all times with the constitution and objectives of the project.
There will be a board of Trustees and a management committee ensuring the smooth running of the organisation, and compliance at all times with the constitution and objectives of the project.
Can I Volunteer ?
Very much so, and your input will be most welcome. Have a look at "How to get Involved", and in particular the "Volunteering Section" which has much more information on all the options open to you. We really do have a need for all sorts of input, much of which can be done from home in your own time.
What Others THINK
Let us know your thoughts ....
The Concept Document
The proposal to create The Floating Stage project is a product of the celebrations for the 200th Anniversary of the Union & Caledonian Canals, which included community engagement and entertainment on the water and tow paths.
The original concept document provides a much fuller description and information about the project than can be included in this web site.
You can download and read the complete concept document by clicking on this link ....
https://online.fliphtml5.com/qipi/liyg/
Comments and suggestions regarding the project will be most welcome, and should be submitted using the "contact us" form on this web site.
The original concept document provides a much fuller description and information about the project than can be included in this web site.
You can download and read the complete concept document by clicking on this link ....
https://online.fliphtml5.com/qipi/liyg/
Comments and suggestions regarding the project will be most welcome, and should be submitted using the "contact us" form on this web site.
First things first
Help shape the project from the outset ...
To progress the project from the Vision and Proposal, we are looking to form a small management team with an enthusiastic interest in seeing The Floating Stage become a reality. It is envisaged that this team will oversee the volunteering activity, and establishment of the project, potentially becoming paid members when the project is adequately funded,
The team will initially consider many of the early matters to be addressed, and start to build sub-groups to look at and report back on the more detailed individual aspects they are working on.
Such items may be progressing towards a charitable status or SCIO, more detailed stage design and costings, fundraising and sponsorship, social media and publicity, membership and supporters, and many more topics that need considered.
The How to Get Involved section lists some of the structure envisaged as we progress, but if you would like to help and advise in these early stages, please do get in touch either through the Contact Us page, or direct by email to ...
info.thefloatingstage@gmail.com
or (m) 07847 611398
You will be made most welcome.
The team will initially consider many of the early matters to be addressed, and start to build sub-groups to look at and report back on the more detailed individual aspects they are working on.
Such items may be progressing towards a charitable status or SCIO, more detailed stage design and costings, fundraising and sponsorship, social media and publicity, membership and supporters, and many more topics that need considered.
The How to Get Involved section lists some of the structure envisaged as we progress, but if you would like to help and advise in these early stages, please do get in touch either through the Contact Us page, or direct by email to ...
info.thefloatingstage@gmail.com
or (m) 07847 611398
You will be made most welcome.
Lots of ways ...
There are so many ways to get involved, depending on the level you wish to do so, what skills you may want to use (or learn), and how much time you want to devote to the programme. You may just want to meet similar like minded people, and that will be just fine.
But whether you want to be a trustee of the charity, a member of the management committee, a volunteer to undertake any of the tasks required to run the programme, or simply become a member of the organisation (with the benefits that will bring in the future), this section explains more about all the options available to you.
For more information, have a look at ....
But whether you want to be a trustee of the charity, a member of the management committee, a volunteer to undertake any of the tasks required to run the programme, or simply become a member of the organisation (with the benefits that will bring in the future), this section explains more about all the options available to you.
For more information, have a look at ....
- The Initial Management Team
- Becoming a Trustee
- Joining the Committee
- Becoming a Volunteer
- Our Booklet ~ Volunteering with The Floating Stage
- Becoming a Member
- Being a Performer
- Sign up to our Newsletter
Advertised Positions
A number of opportunities to get involved are advertised on external third party web sites, which also give further details regarding these positions. Interested ??? You can apply for any position in which you are interested either through the Floating Stage Web Site, or via one of the third party web sites.
Currently advertised are ...
Board Members / Trustees
Video Film Producer / Editor
Stage Manager(s) / Designers
Project Secretary
Project Treasurer
Graphic Designer
Currently advertised are ...
Board Members / Trustees
Video Film Producer / Editor
Stage Manager(s) / Designers
Project Secretary
Project Treasurer
Graphic Designer
Management Team
We are looking to appoint an initial management team to oversee the formation of the project. Although most positions can be part time, it is envisaged these will potentially become paid positions responsible for the efficient and sustainable operation of the project.
General Manager
Would potentially suit someone with event management and / or stage production / entertainment experience. An interest in or involvement in the canals is not essential, but would be an advantage.
Finance Controller
Forming and liaising with the fundraising team, the financial controller will be instrumental in the early development of the project, while creating and implementing a sustainable financial model for the long term future.
Project Secretary
Responsible for the initial administration of the project, formation of the charitable status, corporate matters, legal, insurances and other administrative matters
Location Manager
Will become more involved as the project grows, but an initial liaison with communities, organisations, and performing arts associations will form the strong foundation on which to build the project.
Become a Board Member / Trustee
Could you be a Board Member / Trustee ?
To assist the project towards full charitable status, we are looking to appoint a number of future trustees who will help shape and guide the project. As a Trustee you will play a very important role in making sure that the charity is run in the interests of the people it is there to support, and working with the management team, board and committee oversee the management and administration of the organisation.
Join our Committee
We are looking to form an initial committee to oversee and progress the early stages of the project, including forming the not for profit charity, membership support, grant and funding applications, stage design etc. The committee will work closely with the Management Team (and may be one of the same) but will be intrinsic to the ongoing functions of the organisation. The following list is but a few of the positions we need to fill. All positions are envisaged to be voluntary.
Chair Person
Central Belt, Scotland, UK - 072201
We are looking for a chairperson to lead the management team / Board of Directors in the overall running of the project. The Chair will be amply supported by the Trustees and his / her committee which will include the normal roles of Vice Chair; Treasurer and Secretary, as well as other committee members and volunteers with responsibilities for fundraising, marketing, event and programme scheduling, membership secretary, etc.
This position (with further information) is also advertised on the Volunteers Scotland web site or you can apply using the "Apply Now" button below.
Apply Now This position (with further information) is also advertised on the Volunteers Scotland web site or you can apply using the "Apply Now" button below.
Vice Chair
Central Belt, Scotland, UK - 3532
We are looking for a Vice Chair to assist the chair person in all aspects of the efficient running of The Floating Stage Project. To fully understand the role of the vice Chair, interested applicants should also read the description and requirements of the Chair Person's position.
Apply Now Treasurer
Central Belt, Scotland, UK - 072201
We are looking for a Treasurer to control the financial activities of the project. You would be working in conjunction with the fundraising and grant sourcing team, while also maintaining auditable records of all financial matters
Apply Now Secretary
Central Belt, Scotland, UK - 072201
An ideal volunteering role for someone wishing to work from home. We would envisage that all the sub-groups would look after their own admin so this role will be predominantly ensuring communications between groups are effective, minute keeping / circulation, and other general secretarial roles. .....
Apply Now General Committee Member
Central Belt, Scotland, UK - 072201
In addition to the four office bearers, there is scope to join the committee, with or without any of the specific roles outlined in the general volunteering pages.
If you would like be involved in one of these specific roles / tasks, but do not wish to join the committee, please refer to the volunteer page here rather than using the "Apply Now" button below
Apply Now If you would like be involved in one of these specific roles / tasks, but do not wish to join the committee, please refer to the volunteer page here rather than using the "Apply Now" button below
Become a Volunteer
There are numerous opportunities to become involved as a volunteer with The Floating Stage. And it doesn't need to be hands on. You may be interested in administration only, in which case you can work from home at times to suit yourself.
You may have skills in Social Media which will be very useful, or be interested in finding and sourcing grant funding etc. Your interests may lie in event management.
There really are lots of ways you can help out. The Volunteer FAQ's will tell you more, but if you would like to discuss any possibilities, please do just get in touch by email to info.thefloatingstage@gmail.com
You may have skills in Social Media which will be very useful, or be interested in finding and sourcing grant funding etc. Your interests may lie in event management.
There really are lots of ways you can help out. The Volunteer FAQ's will tell you more, but if you would like to discuss any possibilities, please do just get in touch by email to info.thefloatingstage@gmail.com
Volunteer FAQ's
What type of volunteers are you looking for ?
No matter your interests, there is probably something that you can do to help with the project. It may be that a simple admin role would suit you, or you may be interested in transferring the floating stage and service boats to its next location. The following document gives you the huge range of activities needed to run the project.
What is the volunteering location ?
The Floating Stage will be operating on the Lowland Canal Network in Scotland. That includes the Union Canal, and the Forth & Clyde Canal connecting Edinburgh and Glasgow, and all points in between including The Falkirk Wheel and The Kelpies. But you don't need to reside in the area.
You can decide where (and when) you wish to volunteer / work. It may be you want to work from home as there are many opportunities to do so.
Get in touch and we can discuss it with you.
You can decide where (and when) you wish to volunteer / work. It may be you want to work from home as there are many opportunities to do so.
Get in touch and we can discuss it with you.
How much time do I have to give ?
That is entirely up to you. You can commit to as much or as little as you wish. Some roles will require more attention at specific times, but others you will be able to fit into your other comitments.
I have no experience in canals or entertainment. Is there a role for me ?
Yes, more than likely. The project encompasses so many disciplines, many having nothing to do with boats, canals or entertainment, there is sure to be something that appeals. Or you can use this as an opportunity to learn new skills, meet new people, or simply just lend a hand where necessary. There is much more information in our Volunteering Booklet.
Can I get involved in the entertainment side of the project.
Very much so. The project may produce some shows itself, but we will also be in close contact with many production organisations who will need help in setting up the floating stage. They may even be looking for performers, production teams etc.
How can I get more information ?
The Floating Stage newsletter will keep you up to date with what is happening, the progress we are making in bringing the project to fruition, and lots of other information about The Floating Stage. We will not bombard you with too many issues, and you can subscribe to the newsletter here, (and un-subscribe at any time).
Become a Member
By showing your support for the project by becoming a "Free Earlybird Member" of The Floating Stage, you will help the project become live and enjoy the future benefits. Your support is all we ask ~ you can benefit from being a member without necessarily volunteering to help .....
- Nothing to pay ~ FREE Membership
- Your support will help bring the project to fruition
- Early notification of future events
- Discounted admission on any ticketed events
- Being kept up to date with project progress
- Free Subscription to The Floating Stage newsletter
Our newsletter
Even if you are not ready to "get involved", our newsletter will keep you up to date with what is happening, the progress we are making in bringing the project to fruition, and lots of other information about The Floating Stage. We will not bombard you with too many issues, and you can subscribe to the newsletter here, (and un-subscribe at any time).
What Performers Say
Here are a few comments from some of the performers who have signed up to support The Floating Stage. Click on "Your Stage Awaits" to add your support to The Floating Stage project.
Jennifer Ewan Band
Blend of music
As self employed musicians the floating stage could help our band get gigs, build a following in our local community and along the canal and hopefully help contribute to our income too.
Sue McHugh
Singer & Harpist
As a relatively new act, I'd love the exposure that the Floating Stage could give me. I think it's a brilliant idea. I grew up near the F&C canal and have lived near the Union Canal for 30 years and regularly run, cycle and kayak on or beside the canal and I think having this new venture makes the canals an even more beneficial area for the community.
The Steaming Foggs
Steampunk
The Victorian canals with their ambience of earlier days would be a splendid setting for our band. We also envisage collaborations with the active Steampunk societies in Edinburgh and Glasgow that could bring many others interested in the Steampunk scene from England and abroad. The Floating Stage could be the focus for fairs or music festivals.
Your Stage Awaits
Whether you want to "put on a show ", or use it to promote a larger forthcoming attraction, raise funds for your charity or community organisation, we will try and make the stage available for you and your community when we are in your area.
You may be an individual entertainer, musician, or comedian. You may be a member of a choir, band, or amateur dramatic group, or you may run a dance school.
The scope for utilising the facility is endless, but we would like to hear from you how you believe The Floating Stage would assist you, your organisation or community.
Please let us know by dropping us a note on our contact us form or by completing the following form, and we will keep you up to date with the progress and development of The Floating Stage.
Click this link to access the form ...
https://forms.gle/8xsXkzQeMMq8CR2B8
You may be an individual entertainer, musician, or comedian. You may be a member of a choir, band, or amateur dramatic group, or you may run a dance school.
The scope for utilising the facility is endless, but we would like to hear from you how you believe The Floating Stage would assist you, your organisation or community.
Please let us know by dropping us a note on our contact us form or by completing the following form, and we will keep you up to date with the progress and development of The Floating Stage.
Click this link to access the form ...
https://forms.gle/8xsXkzQeMMq8CR2B8
A Wide variety of performances
The stage will be available for use by a wide variety of performers. The following illustrates just some of the types of acts who may wish to take advantage of The Floating Stage when it visits your area.
Performer FAQ's
Will the stage be free to use ?
We are hopeful that The Floating Stage will be free for use by community groups, local organisations, and up and coming artists. It may be that if an organisation is charging admission tickets, then a small proportion of income could be donated to The Floating Stage project to cover admin and running costs.
We envisage that semi professional and professional artists and organisations will be required to pay a fee to use the facility, but this will be kept to an affordable / economical level.
Likewise, producers of shows may wish to use the facility as a venue to put on their own shows. The Floating Stage will assist where possible in promotion of these productions, ensure the stage is located etc., but will not be engaging artists to perform in them.
We envisage that semi professional and professional artists and organisations will be required to pay a fee to use the facility, but this will be kept to an affordable / economical level.
Likewise, producers of shows may wish to use the facility as a venue to put on their own shows. The Floating Stage will assist where possible in promotion of these productions, ensure the stage is located etc., but will not be engaging artists to perform in them.
Will performers get paid ?
They can do where applicable, but not by The Floating Stage. The Floating Stage is a venue for producers, artists and performers to use. Initially, The Floating Stage organisation will not be putting on shows, but making the venue available for artists etc. either free, or at a very economical (affordable) cost.
The organisers / producers of shows or performances will be responsible to pay any fees or costs incurred by the performers they engage with.
The organisers / producers of shows or performances will be responsible to pay any fees or costs incurred by the performers they engage with.
I / we have no connection to the canal's. Can we still use the facility ?
A big resounding "YES". The facility will be for everyone to use and enjoy, and the more people who get involved the better. The canals and its surroundings are becoming used more every year by many different sectors. The Floating Stage will hopefully add to the use and enjoyment of the canals.
What size will the stage be ?
This is yet to be determined, but one of the critical factors is that the stage has to be transportable along the canal with it's restricted widths and height limitations at bridges. We are confident however that a stage capable of performances for numerous participants (ie choirs or dance groups) will be possible.
Where will the stage be located in our area ?
There are many locations along the canal where the stage can be sited for performances. Another factor is facilities and access for the audience, but there are some locations with adjacent parks and open areas which will suit. If you know of, or have a preferred location, please do let us know by using the contact form, or when registering your interest. This information will be very helpful in promoting the concept and attracting fundraising.
Will the stage have its own PA and lighting ?
We sincerely hope so. We envisage that the stage unit will have its own rechargeable battery system (powered from solar panels) with capacity for eight hours of the sound system and low voltage lighting.
Some performances however may wish to bring their own system, and provided there is an available power supply nearby (or they can provide their own suitable generators), that should be just fine.
Some performances however may wish to bring their own system, and provided there is an available power supply nearby (or they can provide their own suitable generators), that should be just fine.
Why do you want us to register as performers ?
By registering as a performer, you will help us build the case for having The Floating Stage on the lowland canal network.
We will initially use your information to demonstrate the demand, but as the project grows we can create a directory of performers and organisations, publicise their events, and even point people to your own web sites, facebook pages etc.
You can register using this link
We will initially use your information to demonstrate the demand, but as the project grows we can create a directory of performers and organisations, publicise their events, and even point people to your own web sites, facebook pages etc.
You can register using this link
How do I register as a performer ?
Registering could not be easier. Just click the following link, and fill out the on-line form. We will do the rest.
How can I get more information about the project
The Floating Stage newsletter will keep you up to date with what is happening, the progress we are making in bringing the project to fruition, and lots of other information about The Floating Stage. We will not bombard you with too many issues, and you can subscribe to the newsletter here, (and un-subscribe at any time).
Do I have to be a member to perform ?
Absolutely not, but it will help if you are. Any registered performers can use the stage by arrangement if it is available while in their area. You do not have to be a member of The Floating Stage. However, the more members and performers we have the better our chances of attracting funding to make the project a success.
When you are registering to be a performer you can also check a box that means you will also be registered as a member. You will not have to fill out a separate membership application form.
You can register as a performer here.
When you are registering to be a performer you can also check a box that means you will also be registered as a member. You will not have to fill out a separate membership application form.
You can register as a performer here.
Register your Interest
It will help greatly to learn about the types of acts who would be interested in using The Floating Stage, where you are based, and how often you think you would use the facility.
You can let us know all of this and more by completing the "Register of Interest" form, and in so doing will give us lots of important information as we approach funders, sponsors, and other supporters of the project.
We will also be able to keep you up to date with what's happening with the project as we move from Our Vision to having the stage available to use.
Click the button to Register Your Interest NOW ...
Events
Upcoming and past events will be shown in this section. The current listings are simple examples of how events may be publicised, tickets purchased etc.
Press Coverage
Read some of the press articles and features covering The Floating Stage
BBC News (21st October 2022)
BBC Scotland News gave superb coverage to the proposals to create The Floating Stage
Learn More
Towpath Talk (September Issue)
NEW PERFORMANCE VENUE PLANNED ON SCOTTISH CANALS A new and unique performance venue is in the wings for the Lowland canals. The vision is of a floating stage that can be moored at different places along the Union and Forth & Clyde Canals, providing a performance space for amateur, semi and professional entertainers.
Learn MoreContact Us
Use this form to contact us at The Floating Stage, and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.
- Kirkcaldy, Scotland, United Kingdom
