Islay Arts Association

Islay Arts Association (IAA)was set up in 1985 by a group of Islay people, with the aim of bringing high-quality artists for public performances on the island. In its first year IAA presented just two events but ambitious ones – Scottish Opera with “Tosca” and 7:84 Theatre Company with the soon to be iconic “The Cheviot, the Stag and the Black,Black Oil.”

As well as Scottish Opera,  other ‘flagship’ Scottish companies such as the National Theatre of Scotland, Scottish Ballet and the Scottish Chamber Orchestra have performed for us over the years.  Most of the Scottish theatre companies have visited on tour, and many and various classical music events have been held. We have also been delighted to play host to most of the main traditional Scottish musicians and vocalists of recent years.