We use cookies 🍪 to enhance your experience on Live & Local. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our use of cookies.
We use cookies 🍪 to enhance your experience on Live & Local. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our use of cookies.
Wednesday, 24 June
Staff
Awards
The National Rural Touring Forum (NRTF) has announced our Executive Director, John Laidlaw, as the recipient of its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising his decades‑long contribution to rural touring, community arts and cultural access across the UK.
John is a widely respected figure in the rural arts sector, having spent 35 years championing high quality arts in rural, remote and underserved communities. Throughout his career, he has shaped the landscape of rural touring, strengthened networks between artists and venues, and ensured that audiences in small, rural communities enjoy the same cultural opportunities as those in major cities.
The award was presented to John by Laura Dyer MBE, Deputy Chief Executive of Arts Council England at the 2026 NRTF Conference held from 9 - 11 June at Wolverhampton Arts Centre. Delegates from across the UK gathered to celebrate innovation, collaboration and the future of rural touring. John received a standing ovation as colleagues, artists and partners acknowledged his leadership, generosity and unwavering commitment to the sector.
After accepting the award, John reflected on the importance of rural touring and the communities it serves:
“It has been a privilege to work alongside so many passionate people who believe in bringing the arts to every corner of the UK. There were only six rural touring schemes when I started in 1992 and now there are thirty! I’m amazed at how far we’ve come. It’s fantastic. Rural touring is built on connection, creativity and community - and I’m so proud to have played a part in its story.”
Image: John stands proudly with his NRTF Lifetime Achievement Award at this year's conference. Photo Credit: David Reeve
The NRTF Lifetime Achievement Award is given to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership and long‑term service to rural arts. John joins a distinguished group of past recipients whose work has shaped the national cultural landscape.
In June 2019, John was awarded an MBE in The Queen's Birthday Honours List for services to the arts, receiving the award at an investiture at Buckingham Palace in January 2020.
Image: John with his MBE outside the palace. January 2020.
Live & Local Chairman Rob Wilkinson praised John's legacy, saying:
“John’s impact on rural touring is immeasurable. His vision, his advocacy and his belief in the power of the arts to transform communities have shaped our sector for generations. This award reflects not only his achievements, but the deep respect and affection felt for him across the country. The board and the team here at Live &Local are all so very proud.”
Abigail Reeve, Director of the National Rural Touring Forum added:
"The National Rural Touring Forum were delighted to be able to recognise John's lifetime of commitment and dedication to the Rural Touring community at the Rural Touring Awards in June. John has dedicated himself to the support and development of this sector, both in the UK and internationally, and his passion is exemplary. A lifetime achievement award is not the end - but a recognition of the time dedicated to this amazing network - and we look forward to continuing to work with John on the next developments for us all."
The 2026 NRTF Conference was held from 9 - 11 June at Wolverhampton Arts Centre, where delegates from across the UK gathered to celebrate innovation, collaboration and the future of rural touring. Laidlaw received a standing ovation as colleagues, artists and partners acknowledged his leadership, generosity and unwavering commitment to the sector.
Image: A performer stands inside a small tent with an audience surrounding them. This showcase of 'Get Lost' from Joe Garbett is a brilliant dance piece which blends movement, lifts, comedy and dance in an exploration of maps, wayfinding and friendship. Presented at the National Rural Touring Forum conference 2026.
We're all incredibly proud of our Executive Director on receiving this much deserved award.
Congratulations John!
National Rural Touring Forum
You've been added to the mailing list.
