At a time when there are ever-increasing fears for the funding challenges facing the Arts, North Highland Connections is determined to continue with the ambitious vision which inspired its founding in 2008. Greatly strengthened by its formal partnerships with other national institutions, its programme of residencies and public performances in 2010 promises to be bigger and broader than ever.

As part of NHC's partnership with the Royal Scottish Academy of Music & Drama it will, in March and April, have the next two residential events of the year (a young string players' residency in Tain, took place in February).

On 23rd and 24th March the post-graduate acting course at RSAMD will present two of Shakespeare's greatest plays, 'Hamlet' and 'A Winters Tale' at the Macphail Centre in Ullapool. In addition to evening performances there will, each day, be matinée performances for schools. The return to Ullapool follows an outstandingly successful pilot scheme in 2009.

From 31st March to 2nd April, another pilot residency will be based on the Heritage Centre at Castletown, near Thurso. School students form the area have been invited to work alongside a group of students from the RSAMD's Traditional Scottish Music course. The event will culminate with a public concert on Friday, 2nd April, at the new Village Hall at Mey. The students will present a varied programme which will include participation by the RSAMD students and the local participants. To make sure the event goes with a bang, they will be joined by the celebrated Phil Cunningham, who will host the concert, and play alongside the young musicians.

To reserve seats for Ullapool call the Macphail Centre : 01854-613336. For further information, and to register for the Traditional Music course, call North Highland Connections : 01847-890076, or e-mail : MF@northhighlandconnections.org