In the light of the current economic meltdown and general sense of universal misery, Mischief La-Bas (Scotland’s leading Street Theatre Company) are bucking the trend and leading the way towards a bright and glorious future. Firstly by printing and freely distributing their own currency (Neuro’s) - and secondly by touring a full-sized ‘Market of Optimism’ for the downtrodden populace to spend it in.

The Market of Optimism has already proved extremely popular and uplifting to the residents of Liverpool during its term as the European Capital of Culture, and also the residents and tourists of Edinburgh on New Year’s Day 2009, as part of the ‘Feet First’ celebrations.

Featuring sixteen genuine market stalls, two living cashpoints and a variety of wandering characters, the Market offers a wide range of uplifting products, including Heavenly Estate Agents, Magic Lamp Sellers, Optimism Renewal Services and The Ratcharmer of Ballyshamaloola.

WILLY WONKA STYLE ‘GOLDEN TICKET’ OPPORTUNITY FOR EAGER MARKET TOWNS

Having garnered support from the Scottish Arts Council in their endeavours to reach the parts that other arts don’t reach, Mischief La-Bas find themselves in the delirious position of being able to offer SIX TOWNS the opportunity to host the event for a nominal fee (approximately 10% of its real cost).

Their self-imposed mandate is to go to the places that need it the most, ideally towns with no established festivals, art centres or thriving macramé classes.

To that end they fling open the challenge to local councils, market managers and general movers and shakers to express their interest in grabbing one of the six golden tickets by contacting Mischief La-Bas via   

We will then send you a DVD package that explains the project more thoroughly.

Three events are available for presentation during 2009, and three events during 2010.