Carn to Cove, Creative Kernow’s rural touring scheme, will celebrate its 25th anniversary on Friday 25 September 2026 at Perranporth Memorial Hall. The special event will bring together founders, promoters, performers and rural touring leaders to reflect on the scheme’s history and impact across Cornwall—and look ahead to the future of live performance in village halls and community venues.
Louise Kemp, Culture & Place Manager: Live Arts & Events, will open the celebration and welcome guests. Gregg Whelan, CEO of Creative Kernow, will then explore Creative Kernow’s strategy for rural touring and the importance of bringing outstanding live performance to communities across Cornwall.
Abigail Reeve, Director of the National Rural Touring Forum, will place Carn to Cove’s work within the national rural touring landscape and consider the opportunities ahead. Founders Ross Williams and Amanda Harris will bring the scheme’s 25-year story to life through personal memories and defining moments.
Promoters Claire Marshall and Barbara Tremewan will share first-hand perspectives on the difference rural touring makes to local audiences and venues. Jane Pugh will also present excerpts from The Story Detectives, offering a glimpse of a production created for the distinctive setting of village halls.
The formal programme will culminate with Ross Williams and Amanda Harris cutting the 25th-anniversary cake, followed by refreshments and an opportunity for guests to connect. The celebration will close with a performance of Women on the Edge.
Celebrating rural touring
For 25 years, Carn to Cove has connected performers with audiences across Cornwall, helping communities enjoy high-quality live arts close to home. The anniversary celebrates the founders, promoters, artists and partners whose commitment has sustained performances in village halls and community venues throughout the county.