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Staff Blog: Finlay Birch


  • An Tobar Argyll Terrace Tobermory, Isle of Mull United Kingdom (map)

Marketing Assistant Blog, January 2025

'Happy New Year, Everyone!

There’s something about 2025 that feels full of promise—I’ve got a good feeling it’s going to be a great year. It’s so important to stay hopeful, especially in Scottish theatre, with the Creative Scotland funding announcement just around the corner at the end of the month.

The last part of my Christmas break and the start of the New Year have been packed with loads of exciting challenges and new tasks. Here’s a little catch-up:

Social Media Wins

I’ve recently taken on running our social media, and Calum has been so open and kind, letting me try out new ideas while guiding me on what we need to post. I’m really chuffed with how it’s going and feel very supported! One of my favourite posts—a video of views from across the island—has hit 6,000 views on Facebook! It’s amazing to see so many people enjoying Mull’s beauty.

I’ve also been diving into Threads, which is new to me since starting, but it’s proving to be a fantastic platform for sharing our work. Creative Scotland has even reshared a few of our posts already—so that feels like a win!

Diving into Film

Another big project I’m leading is a film screening initiative, which we’re lucky to have funding for from Film Hub Scotland. Mull already has the fantastic Mull Film Club and such a talented community of visual and audio-visual artists. It’s my first time heading up something like this, so it’s definitely a challenge, but my colleagues have been so supportive. I’m confident we’ll create something really special for the island.

Going Green

We’ve got some exciting news for our green initiatives: a Green Programme Lead will be joining us later this year, thanks to funding from The Pebble Trust. In the meantime, the team has been starting conversations, and I’ve been creating videos with local voices.

If anyone would like to join the conversation, feel free to email me at finlay@tobarandmulltheatre.co.uk—I’d love to hear from you!

Exciting International Work

Micah and Rebecca have been working hard on a funding bid to the British Council for a project with two Brazilian organisations. I helped edit and coordinate the application video—it’s been such a rewarding process, and I’ve got my fingers crossed that it all comes together!

New Spaces at An Tobar

Renovations are happening at An Tobar, and we’re all buzzing to see the finished results. I’m especially excited about the production suite—as a songwriter, having such an amazing creative space is an absolute dream.

Big Move

On a personal note, I’m preparing to move to Mull this month. I can’t wait to finally have a permanent home here and really settle into island life.

Looking Ahead

All in all, it’s been such a busy and exciting start to 2025. The team has been so welcoming, and I already feel like I’m part of the An Tobar and Mull Theatre family. I’m really looking forward to the day we reopen the buildings and can share everything we’ve been working on with all of you.

Here’s to a year full of creativity and connection!'

Marketing Assistant, December Blog

My First Month at An Tobar and Mull Theatre

Starting my new role as a marketing assistant at An Tobar and Mull Theatre has been an exciting adventure! From the moment I arrived, I could feel the creative buzz of the place. For such a remote location, Mull has far more going on than I ever imagined. This was a fantastic surprise, as I love the peacefulness of Mull but had worried about feeling isolated. Quite the opposite—I’ve found myself attending all sorts of amazing events during my first month here!

My days are a mix of updating social media, writing promotional content, and brainstorming fresh ways to connect with audiences. It’s been busy, but in the best way possible, and I’m loving every minute of it. The team here has been so welcoming, and being surrounded by so much creativity is truly inspiring.

That said, getting settled on the Isle of Mull wasn’t without its challenges. Finding a place to live here is tricky—there’s not exactly a surplus of housing! After a few stressful weeks of searching, I finally found a lovely little spot which I cannot wait to move into.

All in all, my first month has flown by. It’s been a whirlwind of learning, adapting, and soaking in the beauty of the island. I can’t wait to see what’s next in this amazing role—and to keep exploring everything Mull has to offer!

Marketing Assistant, November

New Beginnings: Starting My Role as Marketing Assistant on the Isle of Mull

This month, I'm embarking on a new chapter in my career, and I couldn't be more excited. I'm about to start my role as Marketing Assistant at An Tobar and Mull Theatre, a vibrant hub of creativity on the beautiful Isle of Mull. It’s a huge step forward for me, and as I prepare for this transition, I’m filled with anticipation for all that lies ahead.

A Job That Sparks Creativity
One of the things that drew me to this role was the unique opportunity to work in the heart of a cultural centre like An Tobar and Mull Theatre. Known for its dynamic mix of visual arts, music, and performances, it offers a space where creativity truly thrives. As a marketing assistant, I’ll have the chance to contribute to promoting these incredible experiences, helping to share the magic of the theatre and gallery with a wider audience.

I’m especially excited about the creative potential this role brings. From crafting engaging social media content to developing campaigns that capture the essence of the theatre’s productions and exhibitions, I know I'll have plenty of room to explore new ideas. It's a perfect fit for my passion for storytelling and connecting people to the arts.

Embracing the Beauty of the Isle of Mull
Beyond the job itself, there’s something deeply appealing about the lifestyle change that comes with moving to Mull. The island’s rugged beauty, with its sweeping landscapes, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife, is the perfect backdrop for a fresh start. I can already imagine taking deep breaths of fresh, clean air as I settle into island life. The slower pace of life is something I’m also looking forward to. Having lived in busier environments, the prospect of more space, both physically and mentally, feels like a gift. It’s a chance to reconnect with nature and myself in a way that city life doesn’t always allow.

Moving Up and Moving Forward
While I’m starting as a Marketing Assistant, my goal is to grow within this role and the organisation. An Tobar and Mull Theatre feels like the perfect place to develop my skills, take on new challenges, and contribute more as I learn and evolve. There’s so much potential for growth here, with exciting developments coming in the organisation and I’m eager to make the most of every opportunity. 

I can’t wait to get started!

 

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2 December

Staff Blog: Rebecca Atkinson-Lord

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4 December

Staff Blog: Louise Gregory