Whilst there is not an official ASSITEJ Scotland, the young audiences sector has benefitted from the strong and supportive presence of Imaginate since 1989. Imaginate is the national organisation presenting, promoting, developing and advocating for professional theatre and dance for young audiences in Scotland. Since 2006 the sector has been further supported through Starcatchers Scotland’s arts and early year’s organisation, also a member of ASSITEJ UK.  In addition to the development and creation of productions specifically for the 0-5 age group they provide programmes of professional development for artists and early year professionals and advocate for arts and early years across sectors.

Scotland enjoys a strong and dynamic theatre and dance for young audiences sector and is regularly seen on the international stage. The Edinburgh International Children’s Festival celebrates exceptional work from around the world. It is a showcase for high quality, distinctive Scottish and international performances, and an active pathway to international touring. Imaginate’s Creative Development Programme nurtures, supports and encourages artistic excellence by offering a range of opportunities to Scottish based artists and producers.

ASSITEJ UK has two Scottish board members, from Imaginate and artist led, Catherine Wheels. Catherine Wheels is a celebrated and well-travelled producer of work for children and young people, with 33 inspirational and original productions presented in 26 countries since 1999. The company also uses its resources to support the development of freelance and independent artists, from exploring and developing ideas all the way through to creating full productions.

Catherine Wheels, Imaginate and Starcatchers are part of an ongoing collective Scottish discussion comprising independent artists, arts workers and organisations, who have a shared belief that all our children and young people are entitled to the best in performing arts on a regular basis, created and produced by a diverse range of makers that reflect the audiences we serve.