Enchanted Forest Community Fund

The Enchanted Forest Community Trust, the charity behind Scotland’s multi award-winning sound and light show, The Enchanted Forest, has appointed four new trustees to its board, each bringing a wealth of experience gained across a range of major events, hospitality, and tourism organisations including The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and the National Youth Orchestras of Scotland.

Joining the board are Alan Lane, Creative Director of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo; Andrew Penker, an independent People consultant and founder of XSectorMentor.com; Gemma Connor, an HR Director and Jacob Brydon, an events and marketing professional.

Their appointments come just weeks before the award-winning annual event is due to take place, giving the tourism economy of Highland Perthshire a much anticipated £10million boost. The appointments are expected to further enable the Trust to enhance its legacy by continuing to develop its charitable community initiatives in Highland Perthshire.

Alan Lane is an award-winning theatre director and Creative Director of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. He spent two decades as Artistic Director of Slung Low, an acclaimed theatre company specialising in large-scale outdoor productions. His work has spanned collaborations with the BBC, Hull UK City of Culture, the Royal Shakespeare Company, and international festivals. Alan was awarded a BEM in 2022 for services to the Holbeck community in South Leeds.

Alan said: “The Enchanted Forest captivated me and my young son from the moment we stepped into Faskally Wood last year. We both became fast fans! I’m really excited to join the board and champion this brilliant organisation.”

Andrew Penker is a Chartered Fellow of the CIPD and an experienced People leader whose career spans global roles in hospitality, banking, and professional services and was recently a Trustee with Southeast Scotland Scouts. Founder of XSectorMentor.com, Andrew is also a certified coach and accredited mentor. He brings strong governance and people-focused insight to the board. Originally from Pitlochry, where the event is based, he is deeply committed to giving back to his Highland Perthshire roots. He commented: “It’s a real privilege to contribute to an event that brings cultural and economic vitality to the region where I grew up. I look forward to supporting the Trust’s charitable mission and the continued success of this extraordinary show.”

Gemma Connor, an experienced Group Human Resources Director in the whisky industry, brings extensive HR and governance expertise from both the private and public sectors. Her appointment adds a crucial HR perspective to the board, strengthening its approach to people, culture and organisational development. Jacob Brydon brings hands-on events and marketing expertise, having worked in operational roles with major festivals such as Glastonbury, as well as a number of Scottish cultural organisations, including the National Youth Orchestras of Scotland, to deliver high-impact campaigns and audience experiences.

Karen Bothwell, Chair of The Enchanted Forest Community Trust, said: “We’re so pleased to welcome Alan, Andrew, Gemma and Jacob to the board. Each brings invaluable skills, fresh perspectives, and a shared passion for The Enchanted Forest, not just as a beloved event but as a force for good in Highland Perthshire. Their combined experience will ensure the Trust is well placed to grow its impact and continue supporting local communities.”

The Enchanted Forest’s 2025 ‘Luminara’ show will take place 2 October to 2 November. To book tickets, or to find out more information, please visit: www.enchantedforest.org.uk.