'Folk' in the UK is used to describe both an activity and a repertoire (and also a style and also a genre and also a type of venue, and a community etc. etc). I don't think we'd call a theatre a traditional venue just because someone was performing some traditional material there. But there ARE lots of views on this - so don't take my word for it!

There is work in all the paces you mentioned - but it's not easy to get at. In a lot of places (like museums) you can wind up with a floating audience. It may pay the bills, but it can be disheartening for any song-weaver - though probably fine if you're happy busking tunes etc.

I find school work draining (which is why I'm so in awe of teachers) but VERY rewarding - so I would like to do more, but having tried to fill in the form for my local education authority I realise it's unlikely to happen. You have to fit right in with the National Curriculum plus there's other issues like getting a criminal record check, and have teaching experience or even qualifications. They don't make it easy. I do have chums who do hospitals etc, but I have enough of that visiting relatives. I'm currently at the 'magic story' end of the 'folk' world. My stuff works best in places where I can cast a bit of a spell (you, know - hypnotising the audience so they think I sang in tune and played some fancy licks up the dusty end) - which rules out most of the other places that people have suggested on this thread. To be honest, after a life of rock grift, I've had enough of 'difficult' audiences, and now prefer to play for people who've come along knowing what I do, and wanting to hear it. But fair play to those that have the stamina for the good fight!

Tom