The Western Isles performance of 'Eileanaich' (Islanders), part of the McDonald's Our Town Story, attracted the highest number of visitors to the Dome in a single day and has been singled out for praise by the New Millennium Experience Company.

In a letter to Education Chairman Norman L. Macdonald, Alison Sinclair, the Education Manager for Scotland with NMEC said: "I am writing to thank you for all your support for McDonald's Our Town Story. Western Isles set a new standard for this ambitious project on 26 October 2000 and I know this will be a hard act to follow. Feedback from audiences inside and outside the Our Town Stage confirmed that all three performances and the exhibition and video were greatly enjoyed. I spoke to many people at the Dome and everyone was very happy. Many of my colleagues also commented on the good behaviour of the young performers."

Mr. Macdonald said: "It really was a fantastic time at the Dome and I was extremely proud of the young people representing the Western Isles. The fact that the Dome had its highest number of visitors on the Western Isles day is surely no coincidence and demonstrates that the islands have a unique appeal."

The Western Isles production, arranged by An Lanntair, was a celebration of Gaelic language and culture, including the impact of external influences on the islands and the influence of the islands abroad. The span of time was from the time of the Vikings to the emigrations of the 19th and 20th centuries.

The Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Mr. Alex Macdonald, added: "I am delighted that the efforts of the Western Isles Dome Steering Group have been recognised in this way. It is also particularly pleasing that the young people who represented the islands have been singled out for praise. I congratulate them and all those who helped, for one night, to successfully turn the Dome into part of the Western Isles".

In further recognition of the success of the Islands' contribution, organisers have asked that the Western Isles exhibition form part of the 'Scotland Night' on the 30th November in the Dome. The Western Isles Dome Steering Group was chaired by Stella Reynolds, Funding for the performance of “Eileanaich” was provided by McDonalds Restaurants, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Western Isles Enterprise. There were also contributions from several local business.

Issued by Nigel Scott
Communications Officer