Enchanted Forest set to light up Perthshire

ORGANISERS of one of Scotland’s premier sound and light shows expect to break box office records when they open their doors to more than 55,000 visitors.

The Enchanted Forest is set to draw more than 55,000. Picture: Angus Forbes

The fourteenth edition of the Enchanted Forest, in Faskally Wood near Pitlochry, will feature aerial acrobratics, choreographed sound and light displays and, for the first time ever, visitors will have the opportunity to go “off path” using a specially constructed pier that will situate them right at the heart of a stunning son et lumiere show.

This year’s show, called Flux, is “all about movement and waves and energy,” according to the event’s website.

Organisers have urged visitors to plan ahead for the month-long, award-winning event as hotel spaces become more elusive.

The Enchanted Forest is set to draw more than 55,000. Picture: Angus Forbes

Graham Brown, shairman of The Enchanted Forest Community Trust, said: “We’re delighted to announce our fourteenth show officially open to the public and the signs are looking positive that it will be another successful show for us this year. The event’s success directly benefits the local business community of Highland Perthshire, many of whom are incredibly busy as a result of thousands of additional visitors to the area, but it also enables us to support local charities, clubs and organisations in the area, all of which deliver important services to the people of Highland Perthshire.”

Mike Cantlay, VisitScotland chairman, said:“As the current winner of our prestigious Thistle Award for Best Event, The Enchanted Forest continues to go from strength to strength and I’m delighted to see that this year’s show is more spectacular than ever before.

“The creative team at The Enchanted Forest has an exceptional way of refreshing their approach every year to create a unique event that showcases Scotland’s natural landscape at its very best. This is a must-see event this autumn for people of all ages, one of the best shows I’ve seen all year.

“Events like this don’t just provide entertainment - they boost the local visitor economy and represent a multi-million pound opportunity to increase jobs as well as deliver cultural and social benefits.”

The Enchanted Forest is set to draw more than 55,000. Picture: Angus Forbes

The 2015 show FLUX has been designed by a creative team led by Derek Allan including Scottish lighting designers Kate Bonney and Simon Hayes, and specially composed and recorded music, and sound effects by RJ McConnell and Jon Beales. Together they have created a dazzling and engaging show which celebrates the stunning woodland setting of the event.

Proceeds from the first night’s show on Thursday 1st October will be split equally between three charities: PKAVS, CHAS and Scottish Autism.

For further information about the Enchanted Forest and to book tickets, visit the Enchanted Forest website at www.enchantedforest.org.uk