Kris Drever originally comes from Hrossey in the Orkney Islands. Over the years, he has taught himself to be a songwriter, guitarist and singer of note (and sometimes many notes). As well as creating award-winning original songs and instrumental pieces with the trio Lau, he has had a fruitful solo career exploring the cracks between classic and modern songwriting and the traditional music that he comes from. Drever’s sound is rooted in the earthy and hypnotic rhythms of much older music, but there’s a sophistication to both the lyricism and the instrumentalism which places him skilfully in the present. He has an extensive collection of BBC R2 Folk awards, plus a fistful of Scottish NaTrads awards for everything from best album, best singer and best live act to best original song. He has worked with many excellent musicians, including Jack Bruce, Eddi Reader, Mark Knopfler, Jerry Douglas and Roddy Woomble, and is a member of the beautiful multi-media project Spell Songs: The Lost Words. Currently, Kris is preparing for a series of Lau events around the UK, writing music for a new solo album and learning some old tunes for reasons he can’t quite explain. “Utterly stunning” – fROOTS “Kris Drever is a serious talent” – MOJO £16 General Admission | £14 Concessions | £10 Under 16s We are offering a free carer/companion ticket for any disabled or wheelchair-user audience members throughout our shows this season. Please note that it is helpful if this is booked in advance via the WeGotTickets website, so that we can ensure that there is adequate accessible seating reserved on the day/night of the event. Wheelchair access, or entry for people with a disability is available from the side entrance, by the Phoenix Café. Tickets for our Spring/Summer 2025 events can also be purchased in person at the Phoenix Shop, Findhorn. These will be available for purchase from February 2025. Please note that this is a seated event.

Chamber-folk of the highest order Scotsman deep instrumental music at its finest. Folk Radio UK Sheer class ★★★★★ The Herald Watch- RANT at Celtic Connections [https://youtu.be/7XpY0ovpYko?si=AJZuXXyKFenN bzQ] Scotlands chamber-folk quartet RANT - who last year celebrated a decade of music-making - tour extensively in 2024 to release their brand new album SPIN. A bold, ambitious and reflective collection, SPIN is an album of reinterpretation - RANTs take on influential tracks from their formative years. Music of bands and players from across the globe who inspired them individually and collectively. The album is a tribute to those influences, and whilst nostalgic by nature has a fresh, confident, energised approach synonymous with the bands well-established resonant sound. With 3 acclaimed albums under their belt - RANT remain at the forefront of the Scottish fiddle scene. The meeting of four of the countrys finest players, the quartet use just their fiddles to weave a tapestry of melodies, textures, layers and sounds. Bethany Reid from Shetland, Anna Massie and Lauren MacColl from the Highland peninsula of the Black Isle, and Gillian Frame from Arran join forces to showcase the combined resonance of their instruments with repertoire unearthed from both old collections and their own contemporary writing. RANT create a sound which is both spacious and lush, yet retaining all the earthy bite and spark of a traditional Scottish fiddle player. Known for their love of playing in beautiful spaces, their 2019 album - 'The Portage' - was recorded in the renowned Mackintosh Queen's Cross, the only church in the world to be designed by architect, artist and designer Charles Rennie Mackintosh. The recording - a stark and honest reflection of their live sound - was awarded Top of the World status from Songlines Magazine. Since the release of their debut album 'RANT' in 2013 which won them critical acclaim in the form of a Herald Angel Award for outstanding performance across all the Edinburgh Festivals , the band have made major festival and concert appearances across the UK, Ireland and Scandinavia. They provided strings for Julie Fowlis Gach Sguel album, and their music has been used for both BBC and ITV national television programmes. Their live set - whether on the festival stage or an intimate church - reflects years of honing their sound together and their love for the music of their respective home regions through their writing, repertoire and stories. An irresistible journey through reels, strathspeys and jigs Songlines It is honest, deep instrumental music at its finest. Folk Radio UK The album feels alive Irish Music Magazine "This is powerful and evocative music that is invigorating, bewitching and beautiful." Folk Radio UK "absolutely compelling" Songlines www.rantfiddles.com

Three-time Olivier Award-winner Sharon D Clarke is joined by Ncuti Gatwa ( Doctor Who; Sex Education ) in this joyful reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s most celebrated comedy. While assuming the role of a dutiful guardian in the country, Jack lets loose in town under a false identity. Meanwhile, his friend Algy adopts a similar facade. Hoping to impress two eligible ladies, the gentlemen find themselves caught in a web of lies they must carefully navigate. Max Webster ( Life of Pi ) directs this hilarious story of identity, impersonation and romance, filmed live from the National Theatre in London.

Seven-time BAFTA Award-winner Steve Coogan (Alan Partridge, The Trip) plays four roles in the world premiere stage adaptation of Stanley Kubrick’s comedy masterpiece Dr. Strangelove.

 When a rogue U.S General triggers a nuclear attack, a surreal race takes place, seeing the Government and one eccentric scientist scramble to avert global destruction. This explosively funny satire is led by a world-renowned creative team including Emmy Award-winner Armando Iannucci (The Thick of It, Veep) and Olivier Award-winner Sean Foley (The Upstart Crow, The Play What I Wrote).

Watch- Touki Harit [https://youtu.be/tcUA6FdO4Lg?si=MAerW9vBFZEavpn9] Amadou Diagne has centuries of West African music at his fingertips. Cory Seznec is a musical wanderer and uncertified ethnomusicologist. A chance encounter while busking in Bath planted the seeds of a collaboration thats been fermenting now for over a decade. Those seedlings are shooting up into the light with a prestigious Arts Council of England grant and the release of their sophomore album, Plastic Man, recorded at the legendary Real World Studios. Touki means journey in Wolof, Diagnes mother tongue. Plastic Man focuses on climate change, environmental activism and spiritual mattersdrawing together West African fables, personal stories and the social, economic and political challenges facing both developing countries and western ones. This is music that asks ecological, spiritual, and political questions. Born into a griot family of percussionists and praise singers in Dakar, Diagne is not your ordinary griot. Though he draws heavily on Coastal African sounds and rhythms, he has forged his own identity as a songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. A self-taught kora player (he was prohibited from studying in Senegal because he did not descend from a lineage of kora players) and guitarist (he developed a signature style to accompany his powerhouse voice), he has developed a unique and intricate style to accompany his powerful, rich, high-pitched voice, drawing on his skills as a percussionist. His music has been featured in Songlines, BBC 3 Late Junction and fRoots. A French-American in Paris, Seznecs fingerstyle guitar-playing is syncopated, polyrhythmic, cross-pollinated and idiosyncratic. He also plays banjo and wades in the deep river of American song. Busking misadventures with Malian musicians in the Paris metro led him to Songhai songsters in Timbuktu and ancient omutibo guitarists in Western Kenya. Feverish touring with the world roots trio Groanbox gave him his sea legs. But a three-year stint in Ethiopia is what cracked everything open. These experiences shaped Seznec into an artist who traces the through-line across musical cultures and whose songs let the past reverberate in the present. As they sail through the crosscurrents our complex world, Touki understands that the musical voyage itself is the destination. A scintillating sequel to Ali Farka Tour & Ry Cooders Talking Timbuktu. ROLLING STONE A subtle and fresh fusion that is further boosted by Seznecs voice, a dextrous, resonant drawl that brings out the color of his songs . SONGLINES

The Writers Caf offers a friendly, supportive environment to meet monthly for writing-focussed conversation and discussion of work-in-progress. It is open to anyone interested in writing, whatever your in/experience and whether or not you choose to share your own writing. Hot and cold drinks can be purchased from the CatStrand caf during Caf sessions. Hosted by Jane McBeth on behalf of Ken Words please contact her at [email protected] if you have any queries.

Get your mojo working and be spellbound by the soulful driving rhythms that will make you shake your tail feathers. Wave Blues Band pulls you into the electric world of Chicago and Delta blues. The five piece Wave Blues Band come from South West Scotland, and are heavily influenced by blues artists such as Big Mama Thornton, Jimmy Reed and Howlin Wolf. (Image Kim Ayres)

Firelight Trio is a mighty new group featuring Fatea instrumentalist of the year 2023 Gavin Marwick (fiddle), accordionist Phil Alexander (Moishes Bagel), and Ruth Morris (Outlander HBO) on the beautiful Swedish Nyckelharpa. They play European music that is evocative, inventive, and endlessly exciting. Ruths resonant nyckelharpa is matched by Gavins powerhouse fiddle, all backed up by Phils groovily inventive accordion and piano, in a rich tapestry of lively Swedish polskas and Scottish reels, lilting French waltzes, toe-tapping klezmer, dazzling original tunes and more. Don't miss them! A veritable roots music supergroup RnR magazine Top-calibre trio with grace, energy, and playfulness - Folk Radio UK Achingly beautiful Fatea Deeply expressive, impressively virtuosic and cheekily sardonic, all in perfect measure Songlines ★★★★ Simply splendid three musical giants RnR magazine Absolutely superb, thrilling and mesmerizing performance! A truly memorable concert and 100% enjoyable from toddlers to seniors. -Laura Pyrr, cultural producer of Espa Stage, Helsinki. They had a fantastic live review from St George's, Bristol, which you can read here. [https://www.fatea-records.co.uk/magazine/live/3CW.php/] The album is on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/album/3BG0uHyMWZg6DWnpbAughi] &Bandcamp. [https://firelighttrio.bandcamp.com/album/firelight-trio] It's very hard not to think about Europe and be desperately furious about loss when listening to this incredible album by Firelight Trio. It's stuffed with Latvian marches, French Chapelloise, Balkan Polskas, Ukrainian klezmer tunes and German jigs. At every turn it is joyous, deliriously uplifting, wildly inventive, it is breathtakingly beautiful, gently contemplative, wonderfully thoughtful. It is, in short, everything that makes European music so great. Gavin McNamara Watch on YouTube: Video of a live performance for Showcase Scotland's 'The Visit', filmed by Trad TV: [https://youtu.be/-cQBP3fnBRM] Rooftop Chorale: [https://youtu.be/Mv6wHNUqxBQ] More information:firelighttrio.co.uk [https://www.firelighttrio.co.uk/]

For over 30 years Boo Hewerdine has been considered one of the UK’s finest singer-songwriters. As lead singer of seminal band, The Bible, through his subsequent solo work and his long-time collaboration with the incredible Eddi Reader he has become something of a national treasure. Since Swimming in Mercury was released in 2017, Boo has been writing, recording and touring with Eddi Reader, Chris Difford, Kris Drever and Emily Barker among others. He is in demand as a writer, producer and performer. This Autumn he will be undertaking an extensive tour, singing songs from his new album ‘Before’ and his extensive back catalogue. A naturally gifted raconteur his gigs are always a total joy.

Part of Dumfries & Galloway Arts Festival 2025 Estelle models for The Artist. Despite decades of experience, she has never sat for a session like this and with such an outcome, both unexpected, yet perhaps strangely inevitable. But she cant stand sitting any longer. She needs to tell her story. Is it all true? And what is her relationship with the mysterious artist? How does this class change Estelles life forever? Four on-stage tickets are available seated at easels with a wider range of drawing materials This performance is BSL Interpreted. Watch: Life Trailer [https://youtu.be/jW999P0EeGo?si=RoQBxHgnRy2K927S] North West End UK Corr Blimey Review Edinburgh Guide Quinntessential Review LIFE is set in a drawing class. Audiences are gently invited to draw or doodle during the show, or watch the story emerge. Pencil and paper and paper are provided. Four on-stage tickets are available seated at easels. I loved the drawing and the invitation to draw. Poignant, moving, relevant really absorbing show- loved the combination of drawing and being drawn in Audience comments Suitable for ages 14+ 65 mins no interval. Content Warnings- LIFE deals with some difficult themes in a humorous and entertaining way. Contains Mild swearing, themes of a sexual nature, references to death, sexual, domestic and physical violence.

'Goodbye Postie' follows the story of two lads, Postie and Sparkie, living in Dumfries together. Sick of the small town, Postie decides to fly the nest and Sparkie feels left behind. Together they explore why some people leave and some stay, risking their friendship in the process. Part of Dumfries & Galloway Arts Festival 2025

A fun and relaxed monthly dance workshop for all ages 8 years plus. All ages from 8 years - 16 years welcome! Complete beginners to more experience dancers welcome! Book your first session below. Dance Steps dancers will be working towards a summer performance at the Glenkens Got Talent Show!

Scotland's best and much-loved stand-up comedian, Fred MacAulay is getting ready to hit the road again with a 2025 tour around Scotland. Now in the fourth decade of his comedy career, Fred MacAulay still loves being on stage doing what he does best.......quite simply it's STAND-UP ! "At my age it's sometimes an achievement to be actually standING up" jokes Fred, but his appetite for performing is as strong as it was all those years ago when he took a massive side-ways step from a career as an accountant and company secretary into the world of entertainment. A career which has taken him all over the world (apart from South America) (and some other continents) where he has worked in television and radio. But it's always been and always will be as a stand-up that Fred wants to be remembered. It's because of Stand-Up that I've been asked to do all the 'celebrity' things that I've done. (See below). He might talk about some of them, but he's more likely to talk about what is current - having been a guest on the famous Radio 4 News Quiz show for almost 18 years he has some previous in this respect. And as a family man he'll no doubt be talking about the latest stage of that aspect of life.....Grandchildren. " I can remember the joy of having our kids just after I'd embarked on my career in comedy......what a great source of material they were! I mean, that wasn't the main reason for having kids ...... but I hope the same applies to the grandkids!"

Join Cat on a fun creative adventure to magical lands exploring through role play, drama, movement and storytelling. From adventures in the jungles, to chasing dragons and flying with fairies, the weekly sessions will promote imagination and speaking skills in a fun way, helping to bring out the inner performer within your child whilst promoting confidence and making new friends! Sessions will run without parents. Classes will only run with a minimum of 5 children. To book register email [email protected] or book via www.csyoungcreatives.com Recommended age is 6yrs+ but everyone is welcome!

an exciting and engaging vocal coaching class designed for children and young people of all ages! In this dynamic environment, participants Join us at Musical Misfits as we embark on a musical journey, fine-tuning voices and learning to sing harmony. Young people will explore a diverse selection of songs from beloved musicals, allowing them to express their creativity and passion for performance. Our experienced vocal coach Julia Young will guide them through vocal techniques, breath control, and pitch accuracy, ensuring that each participant develops their singing skills. As we prepare for our exciting performance in April, participants will have the opportunity to showcase what theyve learned in front of an audience, celebrating their progress and love for musical theatre. Join us for a season of laughter, learning, and unforgettable musical moments in Musical Misfits All ages welcome

O aw the airts the wind can blaw, I dearly like the West. In his memoir of growing up in Ayrshire, Billy Kay refers to this song as an Ayrshire anthem, one of many by Burns which gave people their strong Scottish identity. Here, Billy is joined by one of the countrys finest exponents of Scots song, Robyn Stapleton, from Galloway in a celebration of the rich culture of the South West of Scotland. Billy will talk about the language, history, folklore and literature of his home in the Irvine Valley and read passages in a powerful, resonant Scots that is shot through with a sense of belongingand a sense of humour! Jyne Ayrshire boay Billy Kay an Gallowa lass, Robyn Stapleton for a celebration o the culture o the Sooth West o Scotland. In Born in Kyle Billy describes the wey o life in the Irvine Valley when he wis a wean growin up there in the 1950s an 1960s. Robyn is ane o the bonniest sangsters in Scotland the day, an naebody haes duin mair than Billy tae promote the guid Scots tonguesae the Gallowa fowk will fair enjoy hearin the twa o thaim thegither.

Alan McClellan on walking the old paddy line from Dumfries to Stranraer. A free talk during the CatStrand Bar Night. Bar open: 6-10pm Food 6-8pm- booking advised for food (0164 420374, [email protected])

HotTrod Theatre Companycombines the talents of John Nichol (actor/writer/storyteller) and Iain Fraser (fiddler/composer) to bring to life tales of history, mystery, and heroism. Johns unique delivery and many and varied characterisations, and Iains ingenious musical interpretations, lend atmosphere, depth and authenticity to the performance. Al Pattullo completes the dramatic effect with his sensitive and imaginative lighting design. El Duglasis a colourful and forthright account of the life of Sir James Douglas, often known as The Black Douglas. Music plays an integral part in the tale which is occasionally delivered in rhyme, in the style of the old Border ballads. The storyteller is none other than Robert the Bruce and the play is set in the Spanish town of Teba where Sir James Douglas was killed in battle. Why El Duglas? Bruces dying wish was that his friend, Sir James Douglas should carry his embalmed heart to Jerusalem, to be presented at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. On his way to the Holy Land, Douglas was, however, asked to assist King Alfonso XI of Castile in recapturing the Castle of the Stars near the Andalucian town of Teba, then held by the Saracens. Sadly, Douglas was killed during the Battle of Teba (1330) and Bruces heart never reached the Holy City. Every year, in Teba, an event (Douglas Days) is held in honour of the heroic deeds of the Good Sir James. Sir James Douglas was Bruces ablest lieutenant and the most professional soldier of his day, whose menacing resourcefulness and outright genius undoubtedly led to victory in the first Scottish War of Independence. El Duglas premiered at last years Duns Playfest and toured extensively in the spring and autumn of 2024.

Born in Dungiven in 1975, surrounded and infused with the rich cultural heritage of her native County Derry, Cara has risen to become one of the finest exponents of traditional Irish song anywhere in the world. Together with her husband and musical partner, Sam Lakeman, she has succesfully steered an eclectic musical path defying the typical pigeonholes that hinder most artists in her genre. Celebrated for entwining traditional and contemporary elements she has earned both commercial success and astonishing critical acclaim. Whether she's singing her native traditional songs of lost love and emigration, or original compositions, you will be hard pressed to find a more emotive and captivating performer. Cara Dillon is at the very top of her field and one has the feeling she'll remain there for a very long time.