Chet @ Inhouse CIC interview: “we want to bring our communities together”

This summer, from 30th June to 19th July, Queens Park Arena has been taken over by Inhouse Events Community Interest Company, a local, non-profit organisation that brings the people of Glasgow together with events. 

Covering a variety of events from open-air film screenings to exercise classes, arts events to live music, there’s something for just about anyone. 

Now into its final week of events, we spoke to Inhouse’s head honcho Chet about what they’ve been up to, why they’re so passionate about free community events, and how they’re closing this year’s events offering with a bang. 

Hiya, Chet. Let's kick things off with a bit of background. How long have you been running events in Glasgow? What events have you run in the past?  

"Inhouse has been operating in Glasgow since 2007, we have three companies that work across all aspects of the events sector from frontline staffing, production, venue management, and programming. Our clients have ranged from the Banksy 2023 exhibition, COP 26, Glastonbury, and of course all community and professional programming at Queens Park Arena, to name a few."

-

Can you tell us a bit about the 2024 Queens Park Arena events?

"We've mainly had loads of family events from outdoor cinema, free fitness classes, creative arts events, and professional live music and DJ festivals."

-

It’s brilliant you continue to host these cultural events in the city - all for free with some tickets including donations to keep you going - is there a particular reason you’re so passionate about ensuring there are plenty of thrills in Glasgow’s calendar? 

"Yes, we want to bring our communities together by making what we call ‘Professional Neighbourhood Productions’. That’s basically high-quality productions that are accessible to the wider community by removing the financial barrier to entry."

-

Can you tell us a bit about the events that are family-friendly or suitable for littluns?

"There are so many, to be honest! Most of the fitness and dance classes are for all ages, but we normally start all weekdays with our ‘Big Fun’ programme: Book Bug, Giggle and Grow, Move Dance Go!, not to mention the free Softly sessions people can book, too."

-

Tickets for Laugh in the Park sold out again this year! We know it’s incredible but, for people who might not have heard about it yet, can you tell us what makes it so special?

"Laugh in the Park is a fully outdoor comedy festival featuring mostly Scottish - this year we had Craig Hill, Gary Little, and Susie McCabe - and some international comedians - like Laura Quinn Goh. We sell out every year and work with great programmers to curate the talent."

-

Finally, after your final event has wrapped up this year, do you guys plan on bringing back more amazing free events to the people of Glasgow in 2025?

"Absolutely! We expect next year, as we do every year, to be our biggest yet. Stay tuned!"

If you still haven’t checked out any of Inhouse’s events yet this year, this is your last few days to get involved.

Closing off this year’s festivities will be sessions that blend exercise and music for kids, DJ workshops for young people with disabilities and extra support needs, Zumba, and screenings of iconic films including Superbad, Toy Story 2, The Bodyguard, and more. Get your tickets booked and join the fun! 

Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.

Images: Queen's Park Arena / Instagram.com