Our Mission

The National Rural Touring Forum (NRTF) connects, develops, and supports a vibrant ecosystem that brings high-quality artistic experiences to rural communities across the UK. NRTF’s mission is to engage diverse audiences, strengthen rural and local networks, and advocate for the value of accessible cultural experiences.

Touring in rural areas requires unique adaptability from artists, from self-sufficient setups to connecting directly with the community—often sharing meals with locals before shows and gathering for feedback afterward, creating a distinctive and personal exchange.

About NRTF

NRTF comprises a national network of Rural Touring Schemes and members including artists, venues, promoters, producers, and festivals, all working to deliver professional performances and events in rural settings. These schemes often receive funding, allowing them to subsidise innovative work and encourage local audiences to experience new art forms.

We provide members with training, networking opportunities, research, and advocacy to foster rural arts. Through strategic partnerships and initiatives, NRTF develops programs that connect rural audiences with artistic talent nationwide and internationally. Our work on panels like the Arts Council’s Rural Stakeholders allows us to advocate for the specific needs of rural audiences and ensure arts funding reaches these communities.

Our Projects

One key project, the Rural Touring Dance Initiative (RTDI), launched in 2015 in partnership with The Place, Take Art, and China Plate, to launch a development initiative for making and touring dance performances to and for rural areas. You can find out more about the RTDI and our other projects here.

Championing Rural Audiences

NRTF believes rural audiences deserve access to the same high-quality performances found in cities. With urban-centric funding policies, travelling to major cultural centres isn’t always feasible for rural populations, both financially and logistically. NRTF’s goal is to empower rural communities, allowing every area the chance to serve as a cultural hub.

Our Reach and Impact

Across the UK, NRTF’s 30-member schemes, 1,650 promoting groups, and countless volunteers contribute to over 330,000 audience experiences annually, generating more than £1 million in box office sales. We are recognised by key funders and policymakers like Arts Council England, DCMS, and DEFRA as a strategic voice in rural touring, demonstrating the value of collaborative arts initiatives in community building and public engagement.

Our Values

NRTF is committed to promoting high-quality arts experiences, fair partnerships, creative diversity, and innovation. As a national leader, our sector nurtures relationships with thousands of community volunteers and strives to expand access to cultural experiences that enrich lives in rural areas.

take a look at our history