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(Fri 13-Thu 26 Mar) Families Belong Together stems from a research project conducted by Reunite Families UK (RFUK) between 2022 and 2025, exploring the impact of the UK’s spouse/partner migration rules - some of the harshest in the world. Having heard from children, couples, families and professionals about how the rules impact people’s lives, RFUK found that these rules undermine the mental health of families and children, make them financially insecure and remove from them what all of us consider a basic human right: loving whomever we choose, regardless of our passport or income. Many couples face long-term separation or exile due to the rules. Commissioned by RFUK, photographer Frankie Mills documents the lives of 10 couples and families to illustrate the human cost of the spouse/partner migration policy and their sense of being continuously in limbo. This exhibition is linked to a roundtable discusssion with journalists, artists, academics and charity leaders on family migration and reunion, taking place at the Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities on Wed 25 March as part of the post-doctoral project Loving Across Borders led by Dr. Vanessa Montesi. Image credit Frankie Mills
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Thu 19 Mar: 7:30pm) Join us on the eve of World Storytelling Day for the first Hearth Fire Session of 2026! An eclectic night of ancient myth, contemporary storytelling, post-folk music, and physical artistry, steeped in the traditions of Scottish storytelling. We evoke the warm atmosphere of peat-smoked hearthsides and ceilidh house revelry, presenting timeless motifs relevant to a discerning modern audience. Join host Dougie Mackay as he invites a different selection of Scotland’s finest storytellers, songwriters, musicians, and performing artists to each session, creating an innovative showcase of Scotland’s contemporary culture. ~~~~~ For our March session we celebrate the Spring equinox and World Storytelling Day (20 Mar) with guest storytellers Beverley Bryant, Linda Perttula and musician Esther Swift. Beverley Bryant is a storyteller, celebrant and death educator, based in Fife but travelling widely sharing stories to a wdie range of audience. Beverley is also Chair of the Scottish Storytelling Forum and is an active and enthusiastic champion of storytelling in Scotland. As well as her celebrant work Beverley regularly works in collaboration with Heather Yule as ‘Glamourie’, delivering bespoke programmes of storytelling with harp music for corporate events, tourism, outdoor education facilities and education. Dougie Mackay hails from the Scottish Highlands, from a lineage of natural storytellers. He is fascinated by the wild northern tales of Scotland, Scandinavia, Ireland and the Baltics, with a practice steeped in group-work facilitation and storytelling as a tool for development, connection and empowerment. He has been telling stories professionally for over 10 years and has developed successful long-form shows including Animate Lands and A Wolf Shall Devour the Sun. He co-curates and hosts Hearth Fire Sessions throughout the year. Linda Perttula is an Edinburgh-based Finnish storyteller. Alongside, singer-songwriter Aino Elina she developed He Sits on the Rock of Joy for the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2025, exploring Finish folklore and the Kalevala. Linda also created the Giant’s Heart Storytelling School with storytellers Svend-Erik Engh and Alice Fernbank. Esther Swift explores ritual, connection, isolation, and the natural world in her performance with pedal harp and voice. A prolific, boldly innovative harpist, composer and singer, Esther works across genres as diverse as classical chamber music and free improvisation, and writes for ensembles large and small. She has travelled to Vietnam, New Zealand, Malaysia, Mongolia, and beyond with her music, and shared international, music lead collaborations with musicians and other artists around the world. She has recently been commissioned by Celtic Connections, Chamber Music Scotland, Manchester Jazz festival and The Edwin Morgan Trust and performed internationally with her band Emergence Ensemble. Esther's debut solo studio album, Expectations of a Lifetime, was released in June 2024.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 20 Mar: 7pm) Coinneamh mhìosail de chultar is coimhearsnachd na Gàidhlig ann an Dùn Èideann, làn sgeulachdan, òrain, ceòl (agus deagh chraic!). Gach mìos bidh sinn a’ cuir fàilte air measgachadh ùr de luchd-ealain, agus mar as àbhaist bidh ùine is àite ann airson còmhraidh, càirdeas agus cèilidh.Sa Mhàrt, cò bhios a’ cèilidh ach: Donnchadh MacLeóid, Rona NicLeòid, Alasdair MacIlleBhàin. Bidh Déirdre Ní Mathuna na bhean an taighe. ’S e buidheann neo-phrothaideach a th’ ann am Bothan Dhùn Èideann, a tha airson còrr is 21 bliadhna, air a bhith a’ brosnachadh is a’ neartachadh cànan is cultar na Gàidhlig ann an Dùn Èideann agus a’ cruthachadh àite far am bi a h-uile duine, ge b’ e dè seòrsa bunntainneas a th’ aca air neo an ìre ris a’ Ghàidhlig, a’ faireachdainn comhfhurtail a’ comharrachadh na Gàidhlig sa bhaile. Tha an tachartas air a ruith gu lèir tro mheadhan na Gàidhlig, agus tha fàilte chridheil air a h-uile duine: fileantaich, luchd-ionnsachaidh, agus a h-uile duine eatorra. ~~~~~ A regular session of Gaelic culture and community in Edinburgh, full of stories, songs, music (and great craic!). Each session brings a fresh mix of performers, with plenty of time and space for conversation, connection, and friendship. The March session will feature Rona MacLeod, Duncan MacLeod and Alasdair Whyte, with MC Déirdre Ní Mathuna. Bothan Dhùn Èideann is a not-for-profit group, active for over 21 years, promoting and developing the Scottish Gaelic language and culture in Edinburgh, and creating a space where everyone, regardless of background, feels comfortable celebrating Gaelic. The event is presented entirely in Gaelic, and all are welcome: fluent speakers, learners, and everyone in between. ~~~~~ ’S ann às an t-Sàilean Mhuileach a tha an Dr Alasdair C. MacIlleBhàin. Tha e na cheòladair, na chleasaiche agus na sgrìobhadair. Tha e air grunn òran a chur air chlàr, nam measg clàr solo (Las, 2012); trì clàran leis a’ chòmhlan WHYTE (Maim, 2021; Tairm, 2019; Fairich, 2016); Òrain Teonaidh Chailein (2024); agus òrain le Niteworks (A' Ghrian, 2022; NW, 2015). Chaidh Maim-slè, ciad leabhar Alasdair, ainmeachadh do Dhuais Dhòmhnaill Meek (Neo-fhicsean) aig Na Duaisean Litreachais 2022. Bha e cuideachd na phrìomh sgrìobhaiche agus na chleasaiche ann an dealbh-chluich don ainm MAIM (2020) a bha co-cheangailte ris an leabhar seo. Dh’fhoillsich e an leabhar Glasgow’s Gaelic Place-Names le Birlinn san t-Sultain 2023. Chaidh Alasdair ainmeachadh mar Thosgaire na Gàidhlig le Riaghaltas na h-Alba ann an 2019 agus air a’ chlàr '40 Under 40' aig Comann Crann na h-Alba ann an 2023. Tha e na òraidiche ann an Ainm-Eòlas Ceilteach aig Oilthigh Ghlaschu. Dr Alasdair C. Whyte is a singer, performer and writer from An Sàilean ~ Salen in Muile ~ Mull. He has recorded his own songs and traditional songs on a number of albums, including a solo album (Las, 2012); three albums with the band WHYTE (Maim, 2021; Tairm, 2019; Fairich, 2016); Òrain Teonaidh Chailein (2024); and songs with Niteworks (A' Ghrian, 2022; NW, 2015). His debut book of original and traditional prose and poetry, Maim-slè, was nominated for the Donald Meek Non- Fiction prize at the 2022 Gaelic Literature awards. He was the lead writer/ actor in the related theatre production MAIM (2020). He published the book Glasgow’s Gaelic Place-Names with Birlinn in 2023. He was named Gaelic Ambassador of the Year by The Scottish Government in 2019 and named on the Saltire Society’s Inaugural ’40 Under 40’ List in 2023. He is currently a Lecturer in Celtic Onomastics at the University of Glasgow. ‘S e bràthair is piuthair à Drochaid a’ Bhanna ann an Cataibh a th’ ann an Donnchadh agus Rona MacLeòid. Tha an dithis ceòlmhor seo air a bhith seinn le chèile bhon a bha iad glè òg, agus le sin tha na guthan aca a’ dol le chèile gu nàdarra le co-sheirmean brèagha. Gheibh sibh blasad de cheòl na fìdhle bho Rona cuideachd le Donnchadh a’ cur taic rithe air a’ phiàno. Tha am fuaim shònraichte aca a’ tighinn bho iomadh stoidhle, nam measg ceòl traidiseanta, ceòl folk, agus stoidhlichean nas ùire. Duncan and Rona are a sibling duo from Bonar Bridge, Sutherland. Having sung and performed together from a young age, their voices naturally blend together with beautiful harmonies. Rona is also an adept fiddler, with Duncan accompanying her on piano. Their unique sound, while strongly influenced by the Gaelic tradition, also takes inspiration from folk and more modern influences. Le taic bho Bhòrd na Gàidhlig agus TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland). With support from Bòrd na Gàidhlig and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland). Alasdair Whyte image credit Calum McCready
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sun 22 Mar: 3pm & 7pm) - SOLD OUT Magic or misogyny? Witches Corner is a socio-political play about the history of witchcraft in Scotland. Written by Eilidh Smith with original songs composed by Rona Johnston, writer of Fringe sell-out Mary: A Gig Theatre Show. Born out of feminine rage and a burning desire for more female-led storytelling, Witches Corner explores the fear of feminine power and the misogynistic roots of the witch trials, challenging gender-based stereotypes and asking the question – are women still on trial today? Step into the shoes of both the accuser and the accused. Would you follow the crowd, be a bystander or stand up for what is right? Witches Corner will make you laugh, cry, and leave you aching for justice. Brought to you by Encapulus Productions, an emerging theatre company who aims to give a platform to unheard stories. “Storytellers of the Soul.” Supported by Dogstar Theatre Company Script Development Programme, Edinburgh Steiner School and the Scottish Fisheries Museum.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 27 Mar: 7:30pm) Along the line where the walls of old Edinburgh once separated the city from the world beyond, in the convivial warmth of the Waverley Bar we will explore the boundaries, walk the line between reality and fiction, wild and domestic, this world and the next... For it is at the edges of things that magic stirs, challenge beckons and change awaits. Come ye edge dwellers and bring along your stories, songs and offerings that sit on the ragged fringes. Join guest storyteller David Hughes for another fun and friendly session of Edinburgh’s monthly storytelling club held upstairs in the Waverley Bar. ~~~~~ David Hughes is a storyteller, science communicator and outdoor educator. With a background in ecological science, he tells stories to speak the land alive. David lends an easy charm and dry wit to the stories he tells and is comfortable telling stories around campfires, beneath magical trees or on stage. He has helped create performance pieces that explore themes of identity, becoming and belonging in old Celtic myth and has also developed solo pieces and commissions with various festivals across the UK, as well as facilitated training sessions and workshops on the craft of storytelling, youth work and nature connection. Supported by the Scottish Storytelling Forum and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
The Waverley Bar
(Sat 28 Mar: 6pm) This is a warm-up gig. I need to warm up because I’m a professional storyteller who hasn’t been in front of an audience for a while. I became a mother this year… no wait... last year… sorry, I haven’t been sleeping. Sleep deprivation is weird, time warps in the long darkness and the oldest stories are coming to me. Our shadows lie with all those other creatures in their nests, surrounded by ice sheets and night skies. For me, with sleep deprivation, it's like there’s no medium term; everything is immediate or eternal. I may not know where my shoes are but … for a moment… I'm pretty confident, I understand quantum theory and its something about stories. Time to warm up. ~~~~~ 2026 marks the 20th anniversary of the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Join us across the year for some familiar faces, some brand new work and one or two surprises to celebrate! Logo credit Madeleine Klebanoff O'Brien.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sun 29 Mar: 11am & 12pm) As the snowdrops pop their heads above the earth and fresh winds blow away the dark clouds of winter, step inside the Story Circle and hear tales of springtime with Shona Cowie. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sun 29 Mar: 12pm - 3pm) Musicians Claire Gullan and Kirstie McLanaghan return to host another fantastic TAM Session, the collaborative project that combines two of their passions - playing trad music and arts & crafting. The TAM Sessions is an open and informal trad session, but with the lovely additional invitation to bring your sewing, knitting, crochet, or any other crafting project that you enjoy. Being able to play an instrument is not a pre-requisite and we welcome non-musicians to enjoy the tunes while they craft. In the same vein, please come along for a tune even if you don’t craft. Everyone is welcome! The driving factor behind this project is joy. A joyful experience has a direct, positive impact on our mental health. Community building through creative arts also creates a real sense of belonging and connectedness. Proficiency is not important, just come along and enjoy! ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fortnightly on Mondays: 7pm) Join us for fist-thumping, pint-drinking, side-tickling, award-winning poetry! Loud Poets invite poets to share their work at their regular open mic, now taking place at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in the relaxed surroundings of the Storytelling Court. All styles of poetry are welcome and with a different feature performer every time, this event offers a supportive, creative environment for all. Doors will open at 6:30pm for a 7pm start with two short intervals, wrapping up around 9.30pm. Loud Poets will be managing sign-ups. To sign up to perform, please fill out the sign-up form for the date on which you'd like to perform. This form will close one week before the event, after which they will email you to let you know if you have a guaranteed performance spot. Two spots are always left open to be filled by random draw from poets who sign up on the door. Slots are five minutes and poets are welcome to perform as many or few poems as you would like within that time. You are welcome to go under the five minutes, but please do not go over out of respect to your fellow performers. A message from Loud Poets about this event:"At our open mic and all of our events, we endeavour to create a safe, welcoming space for all to attend and share their work. We ask performers to be respectful of the diversity of our experiences. We do not tolerate any forms of discrimination and harassment. Don't punch down. Performers and attendees who violate this policy will be asked to leave." The Loud Poets Open Mic is organised by I Am Loud CIC, through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding. It is produced and hosted by Mark Gallie.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 3 Apr-Sun 10 May) Stories gathered in the Scottish Highlands made visible using scraps of discarded fabric by storyteller and artist Lizzie McDougall. It has been a long and winding, sometimes windy, sometimes wondrous road that has led to this exhibition. The Quilts illustrate stories gathered in the Highlands from the people who live there; old stories that connect places with people, patching together a timeless but fragile sense of community. The artist says: "I wanted to make this more visible in the hope of giving some strength and presence to this delicate strand of our heritage. One wild and windy night I saw in my minds eye old stories being blown and scattered, some caught in the trees like the strips of cloth left out for Bride on the eve of Imbolc or gifts to the fairies around Clooty Wells. So I began gathering scraps of discarded fabric too. This was how the idea to make the Quilts began. The practice of making them has been very varied, some I have created alone and sometimes I have invited others to join the process. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has in one way or another contributed to all the special pieces that make up the StoryQuilts from hosting sessions, gifting stories or fabric, embroidering, stitching, ironing or bringing tea and baking." ~~~~~ Lizzie McDougall grew up in Edinburgh and attended to Edinburgh College of Art. As a child she was lucky enough to hear Highland stories from Mrs Dunlop the Barrel Organ Lady and Compton MacKenzie, which inspired Lizzie to travel the Highlands listening out for stories. For many years her artistic practice included promoting all art forms and running festivals and community events in the Highlands. After the Seer Festival in 2001, she felt a need to go back to Art College and combined Art with a BA in the Cultural Studies of the Highlands and Islands at UHI. Since then she has focused more on Storytelling and Art inspired by stories and visits museums, libraries, schools and historic buildings sharing Highland stories. She has been making the Highland StoryQuilts for over a decade to make visible and give presence to the rich but delicate tradition of Highland storytelling.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Wed 8 Apr: 7pm) Heavens above! Do you long to fly? Or to travel beyond the stars? Bring us stories of birds, clouds, constellations and the inhabitants of the heavens high above our earthbound feet. Join the Burgh Blatherers for a series of regular open-floor storytelling nights taking place throughout the year, a cosy gathering in the relaxed surroundings of the Storytelling Court with refreshments available from the Haggis Box Café. Hosted by Bob Mitchell and members of Edinburgh's own storytelling club who will transport you with their own stories and imaginative weavings while offering you the chance to tell your own tales!
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 10 Apr: 7:30pm) Queer Folks’ Tales continues its fifth year at SSC and its 2026 run with another fantabulosa line up. As always, queer storytellers galore from around Edinburgh and Scotland share stories of LGBTQ+ lives, past, present and future. Sometimes hilarious, often moving, occasionally shocking, the mix of true and fictional stories is as varied as the range of storytellers we invite. Household names feature alongside new and diverse queer storytellers from different communities of Scotland. Many of the stories told at QFT will be true stories of LGBTQ+ experience in Scotland today. Hosted by Edinburgh’s Turan Ali, who is joined in April by Fife writer/actor Michael Johnson, Texan singer-songwriter Lake Montgomery and Irish actor/writer Conor O’Dwyer. ~~~~~ Turan Ali has been a producer, director and writer of BBC radio dramas and comedies for over 20 years. He’s been a stage storyteller since 2012, and a stand up since 2021. He tours internationally, and has two sell out monthly storytelling shows in Vienna. He’s the creator, producer and host of Queer Folks’ Tales (QFT) for which he won the Creative Edinburgh Leadership Award 2024. QFT now tours across Scotland and is Creative Scotland funded. Michael Johnson is an actor/writer from Glenrothes, Fife. He founded Without Compromise Theatre, a new writing company dedicated to telling stories for and represented by working class and low income people. He debuted his writing at the Edinburgh Fringe 2024 with Wish You Were Here, which has been performed around Fife and raises money for 'Change Mental Health'. Michael won the Creative Edinburgh Development Award 2024. Lake Montgomery is a singer-songwriter from Paris, Texas now based in Edinburgh. Backed by a love for old blues and show tunes, she performs her own intimate stories with a hint of fury. Her influences range from church-house gospel, funk & soul, hymns and especially Nina Simone. She has performed internationally and has many recordings to her credit. “She makes songs that hurt your heart happy.” Conor O'Dwyer is an early-career Edinburgh-based stage/screen actor/writer from Galway, Ireland. His debut solo show Homo(sapien) premiered at the Dublin Gay Theatre Festival in 2025, winning Best New Writing Award and coming to Edinburgh Fringe ’25. Conor's subsequent plays are The Things You Can Only Lose Once, (Framework Theatre) and Rootbound, which is in development with support from Creative Scotland. ★★★★★ 'Edinburgh's most vibrant, authentic and exciting storytelling event' (The Wee Review)★★★★★ 'Utterly fabulous' (TheQR.co.uk)★★★★★ (BroadwayBaby.com)MUST SEE 'Legendary' (Fringe Review) Queer Folks' Tales is supported by Creative Scotland
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 11 Apr: 10:30am) A hands-on, practical introduction to live storytelling and the associated skills. Storyteller Alice Fernbank leads this participatory session for anyone curious about discovering and developing their own storytelling talent. Let out your inner storyteller and learn to craft your skills. For new and aspiring storytellers. Alice Fernbank has been an active part of the Scottish storytelling community for over a decade, appearing in school events, theatres, and festivals including SISF and Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Her work has taken her abroad to festivals in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and most recently to Palabras al Vuelo Festival on Lanzerote. She regularly leads story walks around Edinburgh, sharing the legends and histories of the city with travellers from across the globe. Nurturing others in the art of storytelling is a passion of Alice’s and she has acted as mentor and story coach to many emerging storytellers. Listening closely and responding with energising feedback to reveal a storyteller’s unique, authentic expression is key to Alice’s approach. ~~~~~~~~~~ Presented by the Scottish Storytelling Forum, these participatory sessions are designed to help you improve your skills and share your experiences with fellow storytelling enthusiasts. This carefully curated workshop programme offers you the chance to work with highly-skilled and experienced artists, giving you guidance on improving your practice and discovering your own talent.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Sun 12 Apr: 11am & 12pm) Spring sunshine? Wild winds? April showers? Whatever the weather, gather into the Story Circle with Sarah Wedderburn-Ogilvy for splashy and sunny stories of spring. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 24 Apr: 7:30pm) Join herbal storyteller Amanda Edmiston (Botanica Fabula) for an evening 'Near Beltane's Eve', a reworking of the legends of the marriage of the May Queen and the Green Man, drawing on the plant, fire and faerie filled stories that grow through the folklore surrounding this season. Do you dare loiter under the Hawthorn tree? Another fun and friendly session of Edinburgh’s monthly storytelling club held upstairs in the Waverley Bar, with the usual open-floor section for anyone to share a story, song or poem around the theme or otherwise. ~~~~~ Writer and profession herbal storyteller with a background in herbal medicine, Amanda Edmiston takes people into other worlds through her stories, redolent with layers of history, lore, and the oft-forgotten wisdom of the natural environment. Immersion into one of Amanda's stories involves all the senses and reveals facts that threaten to drift from the everyday consciousness. Supported by the Scottish Storytelling Forum and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
The Waverley Bar
(Thu 30 Apr: 7pm) Don’t miss the next fantastic show from Scotland’s premiere spoken word night! For over ten years, Loud Poets has been showcasing the best spoken word poetry from Scotland and beyond. Expect fist-thumping, heart-wrenching, side-tickling poetry performances with live musical accompaniment. April's line-up features Natalie Elizabeth, Jasmine Gardosi, Jake Wild Hall and Beth Rose. Please note, this showcase begins at 7pm, rather than 7:30pm as with previous Loud Poets showcases. This will be the consistent start time for Loud Poets events at the SSC moving forward. “Loud Poets is tearing up the landscape, bringing the ancient art to contemporary audiences – spreading mirth, giggles and talent along the way.” - Corr Blimey “Go listen to Loud Poets and hear them say the things you’ve been trying to say yourself.” - Shane Koyczan “There’s a humour, poignancy and most of all confidence which serves to inspire.” - Scotsman Loud Poets is supported through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 1 May: 7:30pm) The moon begins to form as the moon spinners wash their wool in the sea, winding it again into a white ball in the sky and re-creating the phases and cycles that guide our seasons, and our stories... Join us for our quarterly series of full-moon celebrations, with live storytelling, music, song and a rotating programme of incredible performers. Following the Celtic Wheel of the Year (the quarterly seasons of Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh and Samhuinn) we look forward to moon myths, lunar legends and cross-cultural stories, revealing themes of creation, fertility, cosmic joy, transformation, death and rebirth. ~~~~~ For our Beltane session we welcome you under the full Flower Moon with another exciting lineup of storytellers, this month featuring Josie Duncan and Anna Lehr, with Claire McNicol and Linda Williamson. Beltane, the first of May, when the King of the Fairies lets loose the fairies... The Little People are shut up under the hills all winter, then for three months they can do as they please. Fairy Folk work among flowers and among plants, helping Mother Nature, and at the end of July they are gone. So excited when set free at the beginning of summer, they have their ceilidh and lucky is the person who is in that place... a fairy hillock, or on Calton Hill with Edinburgh's Beltane Fire Society! In addition to the stellar lineup of performers, Moonspinners are delighted to be sharing the second half of their full moon Beltane event with two traditional dancers, Hao Zheng and Luo Yeung, representing the cultural treasures of this Chinese year’s third lunar month, the full Peach Moon birthday of Wu Tao, God of Protection/Medicine, a legendary healer of dragon eyes and tiger throats. Multicultural festivals and international lunar celebrations all happening on the 1st of May; dancing, storytelling, singing - we just can’t wait. ~~~~~ Moonspinners events will follow two distinct phases, with the first half of performance in the Netherbow Theatre, followed by a social and conversational flow upstairs in the Storytelling Court with a chance to digest and discuss the stories amongst friends old and new. Mark it in your diary, or just follow the moon to guide you here! ~~~~~ Image credit: Hester Aspland
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Multiple Spaces
(Sat 2 & Sat 9 May: 2pm) Explore an ancient link between trees and language; learning Gaelic names for trees and looking at the beith-luis-nin, a form of the early medieval Ogham alphabet as a prompt for creating improvised music. During this two-day workshop with musician Susannah Stark, participants will get to know the variety of Ogham inscriptions in Scotland, learn the names of different trees in the surrounding area in Gaelic and Ogham, and work with field recordings, acoustic and electronic instruments and your voices, responding to improvisation prompts and creating visual scores for improvising together. Open to musicians of any background and level of experience who are willing to improvise, try vocal practices, and open to group working. ~~~~~ Susannah Stark’s longstanding interest in the art of song and multi-lingual expression inspires a songwriting process by which she aims to give voice to intangible moments of everyday life & creative inspiration in their raw form. Susannah first presented her work with song through collaboration with MC Don Hayden in surround sound audio for Art Basel Miami 2016, before going on to release a debut solo album of experimental pop music, Time Together Hues and Intensities with Belgian label Stroom that featured in Mojo magazine’s 2020 best of year charts and more. Joining forces with trumpet player Phil Cardwell, drummer Laurie Pitt, and accordionist Caroline Hussey they created Mion-phuingean (Minor Gestures), an extended folk session in locations around the Govan stones, river Clyde and underground waters featuring new Gaelic songwriting. They have played live in Scotland, the UK and Europe and had music shared on Late Junction, BBC 6 Music and NTS among others. Susannah is also a part of Scottish drone-folk love song project, stravsky & pelè, also released on Stroom.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Sat 2 May: 8pm) This live score archive film screening event featuring the acclaimed accordionist and composer Padruig Morrison, with fiddler and Gaelic singer Claire Frances MacNeil will celebrate the launch of the FAODAIL | FOUND Outer Hebrides Film Archive website, funded by the British Film Institute. Until as late as 1979 very little, if any, publicly-available film created in or about the Outer Hebrides came from anything other than an outsider's perspective. This lack of an indigenous viewpoint led, at best, to an uninformed, and often romanticised or patronising, representation of island life in the twentieth century. The FAODAIL | FOUND project seeks to redress this imbalance and has so far digitised over 25 hours of 8mm home movies through crowdfunding. The archive is a unique and important documentation of social history of the Outer Hebrides that has gained recognition already through documentaries produced by UistFilm such as Dùthchas, Faodail - Found Film and Beatha nan Eilean. Presented by the Folk Film Gathering.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 3 May: 11am) We’ve probably all been to a cèilidh dance; maybe even seen dancing at a Highland Games; but what actually is understood by ‘Traditional Dance’ in Scotland? Join author, scholar, dancer and dance teacher Pat Ballantyne to find out, in the relaxed environment of the George Mackay Brown Library (or, if you prefer, in the comfort of your own home). If joining us in-person, stay on afterwards for an introductory session with Pat to try Step Dance yourself!
Scottish Storytelling Centre
George Mackay Brown Library
(Sun 3 May: 1pm) Step Dance is Scotland’s indigenous percussive dance tradition: a magical combination of music and movement. Led by expert tutor Pat Ballantyne with musical accompaniment by fantastic fiddler-piper duo Sarah Hoy and Fin Moore, this introductory session is for anyone interested in taking their first steps in one of Scotland’s most thrilling Traditional Dance forms in a relaxed environment. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship, with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sun 3 May: 7:30pm) Across Cumbria, roads wend their way through picturesque countryside. Ancient dry stone walls hold the stories of the dead that were carried past on these secret and haunted trails. The Corpse Road follows the rise and fall, the twists and turns of these paths to tell the tale of characters that were carried to their final resting place. Storyteller Daniel Serridge and musician Heather Cartwright weave stories and songs together in this evocative and unnerving folkloric journey to the grave.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Mon 4 May: 11am) Crafting is popular like never before, from basket-making to knitting, potting to printmaking; but where are the roots of all this contemporary crafting, and what counts as ‘Traditional Craft’? Join Heritage Craft’s expert Mary Lewis, along with craft artists Simon Cooper and Anna Liebmann to find out, in the relaxed environment of the George Mackay Brown Library (or, if you prefer, in the comfort of your own home). Want to try your own hand at crafting? Stick around for one or both of our afternoon workshops on Hand-Bound Brush Making and Willow-weaving.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
George Mackay Brown Library
(Mon 4 May: 1pm & 3pm) Whether you count yourself a canny crafter already, or think you’re not crafty at all, come and try your hand at the beautiful and practical craft of hand-bound brush making, under the expert tutelage of Simon Cooper. Enjoy learning to make something that’s both lovely and useful, with the pleasure of taking your brush home with you! Keen for more crafting? Come and try Willow-weaving with Anna Liebmann either before or after your brush-making session.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
George Mackay Brown Library
(Mon 4 May: 1pm & 3pm) Adorn your home with your very own willow woven decorations! Try your hand at willow weaving under the expert guidance of local basketmaker Anna Liebmann. Learn the very basics of one of the oldest known (and still modern!) crafts, and leave with your hard work in hand. Keen for more crafting? Come and try Hand-Bound Brush Making with Simon Cooper either before or after your weaving session.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Tue 5 May: 1pm) In this week of Edinburgh Tradfest this might seem a daft question, but come and challenge your preconceptions with a fresh perspective from guest speaker Claire Frances MacNeil - native of Barra, Gaelic singer, fiddler, scholar and recipient of the Gold Medal for traditional singing at the 2024 National Mòd. Stay on afterwards for a free session of music from members of the Scots Music Group at Cafe Cèilidh.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
George Mackay Brown Library
(Tues 17 Mar, 5 May, 16 Jun, 22 Sep & 17 Nov: 2pm) Join friends from the Scots Music Group for an afternoon session of traditional songs, music, poems and stories, held in the relaxed setting of the Storytelling Court. All welcome to listen or bring a tune for a turn.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Thu 7 May: 6pm) Storytelling comes in all shapes and sizes, but how do we know what makes it ‘traditional’ or not? Join Orkney storyteller Tom Muir as he brings a fresh Northern sea breeze to this sometimes misty matter. If joining us in-person, stay on afterwards to hear Tom in action at one of our regular celebrated Hearth Fire Sessions (ticketed separately).
Scottish Storytelling Centre
George Mackay Brown Library
(Thu 7 May: 7:30pm) Welcome to an eclectic night of ancient myth, contemporary storytelling, post-folk music, and physical artistry. Steeped in the traditions of Scottish storytelling, we evoke the warm atmosphere of peat-smoked hearthsides and ceilidh house revelry, presenting timeless motifs relevant to a discerning modern audience. Join host Dougie Mackay as he invites a different selection of Scotland’s finest storytellers, songwriters, musicians, and performing artists to each session, creating an innovative showcase of Scotland’s contemporary culture. In May, join Dougie, storytellers Rikka Palonen and Tom Muir and musician Danica Boyd for a special Tradfest session. ~~~~~ Dougie Mackay hails from the Scottish Highlands, from a lineage of natural storytellers. He is fascinated by the wild northern tales of Scotland, Scandinavia, Ireland and the Baltics, with a practice steeped in group-work facilitation and storytelling as a tool for development, connection and empowerment. He has been telling stories professionally for over 10 years and has developed successful long-form shows including Animate Lands and A Wolf Shall Devour the Sun. He co-curates and hosts Hearth Fire Sessions throughout the year.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 8 May: 1pm) Fiù ’s mur eil Gàidhlig agad, ma tha thu a’ fuireach ann an Alba, tha fios gum bi thu mothachail air beartas agus bòidhchead a’ chànain agus a traidiseanan cultarail - gu sònraichte ann am bàrdachd, sgeulachdan agus ceòl. Thig an cuideachd Gàidheal cliùiteach, an ceòladair Brian Ó hEadhra gus barrachd ionnsachadh mu phrìomh àite na Gàidhlig ann a bhith a’ toirt cruth air Ealain Thraidiseanta ann an Alba bhon àm a dh’fhalbh chun an latha an-diugh. Even if there’s no Gaelic ‘at you’, living in Scotland you can’t fail to be aware of the richness and beauty of the language and its cultural traditions - in poetry, storytelling and music in particular. Join celebrated Gael and musician Brian Ó hEadhra to learn more about Gaelic’s central role in defining the Traditional Arts in Scotland to this day.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
George Mackay Brown Library
(Fri 8 May: 2:30pm) Bidh òrain Gàidhlig a’ pòsadh faclan is fonn ri chèile gu foirfe; agus chan eil duine sam bith a tha nas fheàrr gus seo a dhearbhadh na an seinneadair is neach-ciùil Gàidhlig Brian Ó hEadhra a bhios gur stiùireadh sa bhùth-obrach seo a tha fosgailte do dhaoine de gach comas, a’ coimhead air na seòrsaichean òrain Ghàidhlig as cudromaiche - a’ gabhail a-steach port-à-beul, òrain luaidh, agus sàr-òrain cèilidh. Chan fheum eòlas a bhith agad air a’ Ghàidhlig roimhe, ach bhiodh beagan eòlais air seinn feumail. Gaelic song is the perfect marriage of word and tune. There’s none better to demonstrate this than Gaelic singer and musician Brian Ó hEadhra, who’ll be your guide in this workshop open to all abilities and covering the essential Gaelic song types - including port-à-beul (mouth music), waulking songs, and some cèilidh classics. No prior experience in Gaelic required, though some singing experience is desirable.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 8 May: 7pm) Coinneamh mhìosail de chultar is coimhearsnachd na Gàidhlig ann an Dùn Èideann, làn sgeulachdan, òrain, ceòl (agus deagh chraic!). Gach mìos bidh sinn a’ cuir fàilte air measgachadh ùr de luchd-ealain, agus mar as àbhaist bidh ùine is àite ann airson còmhraidh, càirdeas agus cèilidh. ’S e buidheann neo-phrothaideach a th’ ann am Bothan Dhùn Èideann, a tha airson còrr is 21 bliadhna, air a bhith a’ brosnachadh is a’ neartachadh cànan is cultar na Gàidhlig ann an Dùn Èideann agus a’ cruthachadh àite far am bi a h-uile duine, ge b’ e dè seòrsa bunntainneas a th’ aca air neo an ìre ris a’ Ghàidhlig, a’ faireachdainn comhfhurtail a’ comharrachadh na Gàidhlig sa bhaile. Tha an tachartas air a ruith gu lèir tro mheadhan na Gàidhlig, agus tha fàilte chridheil air a h-uile duine: fileantaich, luchd-ionnsachaidh, agus a h-uile duine eatorra. ~~~~~ A regular session of Gaelic culture and community in Edinburgh, full of stories, songs, music (and great craic!). Each session brings a fresh mix of performers, with plenty of time and space for conversation, connection, and friendship. Bothan Dhùn Èideann is a not-for-profit group, active for over 21 years, promoting and developing the Scottish Gaelic language and culture in Edinburgh, and creating a space where everyone, regardless of background, feels comfortable celebrating Gaelic. The event is presented entirely in Gaelic, and all are welcome: fluent speakers, learners, and everyone in between. Le taic bho Bhòrd na Gàidhlig agus TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland). With support from Bòrd na Gàidhlig and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland)
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sat 9 May: 1pm) With the passing of the Scottish Languages Act last year, Scots (along with Gaelic) finally got its long-overdue official recognition as one of Scotland’s national languages. Come and learn more about the cultural kist o riches, from the medieval makars to the Bothy Ballads in this session led by Scots speaker and singer, Steve Byrne, as he takes you through Scots’ central place in the Traditional Arts in Scotland. Stay on for a celebration of Scots song at the drop-in Young Scots Singers event from 2:30pm.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sat 9 May: 2:30pm) Calling all Scots sangsters under 30! An afternoon of song sharing and learning for younger singers in the Scots tradition, of all levels of experience. Share your Scots songs in a friendly, welcoming environment, in an event aiming to support the next generation of singers in the Scots leid. Hosted by Steve Byrne and Scott Gardiner in conjunction with Edinburgh University Folk Society and the World's Room singing club. ~~~ Caain aa Scots sangsters unner 30! An efternuin o sang sharin an lairnin fur younger sangsters in the Scots tradeition, o aa levels o experience. Share yer Scots sangs in a blythe, walcomin environs, in a gaitherin tae forder the neist generation o sangsters in the Scots leid. Wi Steve Byrne an Scott Gardiner in pairtnership wi Embra Varsity Folk Society an The Warld's Room sang howff.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sat 9 May: 7:30pm) This theatrical retelling weaves Scottish folklore through Wilhelm Hauff’s The Cold Heart, blending German Romanticism and Highland myth. The story follows Peter Munk, a poor charcoal burner’s son whose desire for wealth and belonging draws him into a dangerous bargain with forces older than the forest itself. As riches come at a terrible cost, Peter is forced to confront the consequences of his choices. Haunted by loss and guided by ancient spirits, he must decide what kind of heart he is willing to live with — and what price he will pay to reclaim his humanity. Guided by narrator and storyteller Franziska Droll, accompanied by musician and composer Greg Harradine, who weaves an atmospheric musical landscape with skill and sensitivity, the performance moves between spoken word, song, and folklore. A dark, evocative folk tale of ambition, memory, and redemption. ~~~~~ 2026 marks the 20th anniversary of the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Join us across the year for some familiar faces, some brand new work and one or two surprises to celebrate! Developed with support from the Traditional Arts Fund.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 10 May: 10am-6pm) Join TRACS and partners for a jam-packed all-day celebration of the very best in the Traditional Arts at the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Intrigued by Intangible Cultural Heritage and would love to know more? Come to the Living Heritage Fayre to find out all you want to know from Scotland’s experts in the field, whilst having a go yourself in our come and try craft, dance, music and storytelling taster workshops. We’re thrilled to have with us Michael Fortune, Ireland’s folklore aficionado, who’ll be talking to us about our Celtic cousins’ approach to ICH and tradition-bearing, as well as his own amazing work through the folklore.ie platform. We round off the day with a traditional house cèilidh, a welcoming showcase of traditional craft, dance, music and song with participation warmly encouraged. ScheduleLiving Heritage Fayre (10am-2pm, Storytelling Court)Come & Try Sessions (10:30am-1:30pm, multiple spaces at SSC)An Afternoon with Michael Fortune of folklore.ie (2-3:30pm, Theatre)TRACS House Ceilidh (4-6pm, Storytelling Court)
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Multiple Spaces
(Sat 16 May: 10:30am) Sharing stories with people living with dementia is a creative and collaborative practice. Whether you are a care partner, a storyteller or work/volunteer in the third sector or a residential care setting, this workshop will give you the tools to make a story resonate with neurologically diverse audiences and ensure your creative event is dementia inclusive. Jan Bee Brown is a storyteller with ten years of experience shaping and sharing stories for dementia-inclusive events such as Raven Tales (Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2024/2025). Jan currently manages a Dementia Meeting Centre at the Heart of Newhaven Community where she combines person-centred storytelling with music and crafting to build resilience in times of change. ~~~~~~~~~~ Presented by the Scottish Storytelling Forum, these participatory sessions are designed to help you improve your skills and share your experiences with fellow storytelling enthusiasts. This carefully curated workshop programme offers you the chance to work with highly-skilled and experienced artists, giving you guidance on improving your practice and discovering your own talent.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Wed 20 May: 7pm) Finding Balance is a night of bold new theatre that celebrates creativity, collaboration, and the process of making work. Produced by Balancing Act Theatre, the event brings together writers, directors, and performers to share fresh ideas with a live audience in a relaxed and supportive environment. The evening will feature a series of short, original pieces – from thought-provoking drama to playful comedy – giving artists the opportunity to test new work and audiences the chance to experience theatre at its most immediate and exciting. More than just a performance, Finding Balance is about community: creating space for emerging voices, encouraging experimentation, and connecting artists and audiences in meaningful ways. Join them for an evening of new writing, creativity, and discovery as Balancing Act Theatre continues its mission to support developing artists and bring new stories to the stage.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Wed 27 May: 4pm) A compelling and sensitive new book by Angus Macmillan, the well-known Lewis-born poet and writer and member of The Lochies folk group. It describes his upbringing in the Gaelic-speaking crofting village of Lemreway, viewed through the prisms of the four elements – earth, air, fire and water – to explore how we come to understand a sense of place, home and belonging. The lived experiences he so beautifully evokes through poetic narratives are then viewed from psychological and philosophical perspectives which speak to universal concerns about social cohesion that resonate beyond the boundaries of the islands: the lures and traps of nostalgia – what we can and cannot return to, in the context of social change and the passage of time. Photo courtesy James Smith
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Wed 27 May: 7:30pm) Enjoy live storytelling in the relaxed setting of the Netherbow Theatre, where the amazing apprentice storytellers will show off their skills and explore a different theme with every performance. Presented by the Scottish Storytelling Forum.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Wed 10 Jun: 7pm) The sun is high in the sky and the long road beckons! Take us on a journey with travelling tales from near or far. Join the Burgh Blatherers for a series of regular open-floor storytelling nights taking place throughout the year, a cosy gathering in the relaxed surroundings of the Storytelling Court with refreshments available from the Haggis Box Café. Hosted by Bob Mitchell and members of Edinburgh's own storytelling club who will transport you with their own stories and imaginative weavings while offering you the chance to tell your own tales!
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sat 13 Jun: 11am) Come and explore the catalogue of Gaelic songs written and performed by Runrig, from their first ever album Play Gaelic, which included some of the biggest songs of their career, to more contemporary Gaelic songs that helped shape the Gaelic folk scene and inspire many singers over the last 50 years. Calum and Rory Macdonald were the key Gaelic songwriters of the last 50 years, and their songs helped shape the Gaelic singing world to what it is today. Many of their songs are now used at the biggest Gaelic festival in the world, The Royal National Mòd. Thigibh agus rannsaichibh clàr nan òran Gàidhlig a sgrìobh is a sheinn Runrig bhon chiad chlàr aca a-riamh Play Gaelic, anns an robh cuid de na h-òrain as motha nan cùrsa-beatha, gu òrain Gàidhlig nas co-aimsireil a chuidich le bhith a’ cumadh sealladh dùthchail na Gàidhlig agus a’ brosnachadh mòran sheinneadairean thar nan 50 bliadhna a dh’fhalbh. B’ e Calum agus Ruaraidh MacDhòmhnaill prìomh sgrìobhadairean òrain na Gàidhlig thar nan 50 bliadhna a dh’fhalbh agus chuidich na h-òrain aca le bhith a’ cumadh saoghal seinn na Gàidhlig chun na tha e an-diugh, agus cluinnidh sibh mòran de na h-òrain aca gan cleachdadh aig an fhèis Ghàidhealach as motha san t-saoghal, Am Mòd Nàiseanta Rìoghail. ~~~~~ Norrie Tago MacIver is a singer-songwriter from the Isle of Lewis, with a reputation as one of Gaelic music’s most versatile and accomplished voices. Until November 2025 he was the lead singer of Skipinnish, one of Scotland’s most popular and dynamic folk bands, for nine years. Known for his powerful voice, melodic flair, and deep roots in Gaelic tradition, Norrie has brought his signature style to sold-out venues across the UK, including the Barrowlands and Edinburgh Castle. In December 2011, Norrie was voted Gaelic Singer of the Year at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards, and in 2021 he won the Online Performance of the year. He has two solo albums under his name and also released an album of new songs with the Glasgow Barons called Songs of Govan Old.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
Sat 13 June 2026 (2pm), Fri 20 Nov 2026 (7:30pm) Drawing on his family’s Holocaust history, his own experience of disability, and Rudolf Steiner’s Philosophy of Freedom, Iddo Oberski weaves a deeply personal journey with his onstage (puppet) counterpart, Svjetlana, a dialogue that constantly surprises and reveals new layers of understanding. In Balancing in Freedom, Iddo fuses storytelling, movement, puppetry, visual art, music, spoken word, magic, and philosophy into a living artwork that shifts between intimacy and spectacle, exploring what it means to be human, and our ongoing search for freedom, connection, and meaning. Just as you think you know where it’s heading, the performance transforms again, surprising, thought-provoking, and always engaging. Following a sold-out, standing-ovation premiere at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, Balancing in Freedom returns to the stage in 2026. Moving, insightful, and unlike any other show, it invites every audience member to take away something unique and personal. After each performance, audiences are invited to take part in a 30-minute facilitated discussion. Written and performed by Iddo Oberski, co-direction and creative mentorship by Mark Kydd. 'Exquisite beyond words.''Your presentation was a most profound and deeply moving one. You managed to combine heart-serious content with art, humour and entertainment.' 'I was struck by your powerful story and the way you told it.' Funded by Creative Scotland. Sponsored by the Authentic Artist Collective and the Salisbury Centre.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 13 & Sun 14 Jun: 7:30pm) A contemporary, poetic yet realistic narrative with a cinematic gaze, engaging with the Europe of tomorrow and bringing audiences into contact with its ordinary people. Set in 2040, in the so-called “Old Neuropa,” four individuals — Xenia, Ingrid, Melina and Aris — move within a landscape of constant control, in a society of limited sovereignty and continuous surveillance. They walk a path that leads either to annihilation or to the so-called people of the caves. Written in 2016 and considered prophetic for its time, The 3% combines video art, cinematic aesthetics and live stage action, moving between realism and dystopian imagination, while approaching contemporary dead ends with humour and subtle irony. With a playful yet deeply human perspective, with hope and proposition, the play explores what freedom and consciousness mean in a world that seems to have stopped desiring them. The play is inspired by the financial crisis experienced by Greece and is written by Eurodram-awarded playwright Vily Sotiropoulou and produced by Greek theatre company Boufoni Theatre Group. Performed in Greek with English surtitles.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 21 Jun: 3pm) Celebrate Make Music Day with a free concert by Edinburgh's Sangstream Choir! Sangstream are a community choir led by acclaimed Scottish traditional musician Corrina Dawn (Hewat). For almost 30 years they've been entertaining audiences with an enchanting variety of Scots folk songs, both contemporary and traditional, some well known and others less so, mostly in three-part harmony.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 26 Jun: 7:30pm) Dreams pursued, wishes granted or nightmares uncovered, how far would you go to make your dreams come true? Angus Òg, Lord of Summer, bringer of dreams, is at the height of his powers in this Midsummer season. Stories, songs, riddles, spells in the realm of the 'what if' to enchant the long summer evening. Another fun and friendly session of Edinburgh’s monthly storytelling club held upstairs in the Waverley Bar, with the usual open-floor section for anyone to share a story, song or poem around the theme or otherwise. Harriet Grindley is the co-host of the popular storytelling ceilidh series organised by the Burgh Blatherers at the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Her stories connect with place, history, myth and community with tales traditional and new. She particularly enjoys using Gaelic, songs, clarsach or concertina, found objects and image to create an immersive and inclusive environment. Supported by the Scottish Storytelling Forum and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
The Waverley Bar
(Sat 27 Jun: 11am) Join North-East folk singer Ellie Beaton for an engaging exploration of traditional Aberdeenshire ballads from the Greig–Duncan Folk Song Collection. Through these rich resources, participants will delve into the art of folk song collecting, while exploring the distinctive ornamentation and style of the region. ~~~~~ Ellie Beaton is a captivating award-winning folk singer hailing from Rothienorman in the North-East of Scotland. With a commanding voice that ripples with warmth and confidence, Ellie effortlessly embodies the timeless spirit of Aberdeenshire’s vibrant singing style whilst blending inspirations from across the globe. Born and raised in Rothienorman, in the heart of Aberdeenshire, she has carved a name for herself as one of the most promising voices in Scotland’s folk scene, being described as “one of the most outstanding voices in Scotland’s folk scene” by the Herald. In February 2025, Ellie was crowned BBC Radio Scotland’s Young Traditional Musician of the Year, four years after becoming the youngest ever winner of the MG ALBA Scots Singer of the Year.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Thu 2 Jul: 7pm) Don’t miss the next fantastic show from Scotland’s premiere spoken word night! For over ten years, Loud Poets has been showcasing the best spoken word poetry from Scotland and beyond. Expect fist-thumping, heart-wrenching, side-tickling poetry performances with live musical accompaniment. Please note, this showcase begins at 7pm, rather than 7:30pm as with previous Loud Poets showcases. This will be the consistent start time for Loud Poets events at the SSC moving forward. “Loud Poets is tearing up the landscape, bringing the ancient art to contemporary audiences – spreading mirth, giggles and talent along the way.” - Corr Blimey “Go listen to Loud Poets and hear them say the things you’ve been trying to say yourself.” - Shane Koyczan “There’s a humour, poignancy and most of all confidence which serves to inspire.” - Scotsman Loud Poets is supported through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 31 Jul: 7:30pm) Another fun and friendly session of Edinburgh’s monthly storytelling club held upstairs in the Waverley Bar, with the usual open-floor section for anyone to share a story, song or poem around the theme or otherwise. Supported by the Scottish Storytelling Forum and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
The Waverley Bar
(Wed 9 Sep: 7pm) What still lives in the wild places beyond our ordered lives? Monsters, magic and tricksters, or our fortune and our freedom? Join the Burgh Blatherers for a series of regular open-floor storytelling nights taking place throughout the year, a cosy gathering in the relaxed surroundings of the Storytelling Court with refreshments available from the Haggis Box Café. Hosted by Bob Mitchell and members of Edinburgh's own storytelling club who will transport you with their own stories and imaginative weavings while offering you the chance to tell your own tales!
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 25 Sep: 7:30pm) Another fun and friendly session of Edinburgh’s monthly storytelling club held upstairs in the Waverley Bar, with the usual open-floor section for anyone to share a story, song or poem around the theme or otherwise. Supported by the Scottish Storytelling Forum and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
The Waverley Bar
(Sat 26 Sep: 7:30pm) The moon begins to form as the moon spinners wash their wool in the sea, winding it again into a white ball in the sky and re-creating the phases and cycles that guide our seasons, and our stories... Join us for our quarterly series of full-moon celebrations, with live storytelling, music, song and a rotating programme of incredible performers. Following the Celtic Wheel of the Year (the quarterly seasons of Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh and Samhuinn) we look forward to moon myths, lunar legends and cross-cultural stories, revealing themes of creation, fertility, cosmic joy, transformation, death and rebirth. ~~~~~ Moonspinners events will follow two distinct phases, with the first half of performance in the Netherbow Theatre, followed by a social and conversational flow upstairs in the Storytelling Court with a chance to digest and discuss the stories amongst friends old and new. Mark it in your diary, or just follow the moon to guide you here! ~~~~~ Image credit: Hester Aspland
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Multiple Spaces
(Fri 16 Oct: 7pm) Don’t miss the next fantastic show from Scotland’s premiere spoken word night! For over ten years, Loud Poets has been showcasing the best spoken word poetry from Scotland and beyond. Expect fist-thumping, heart-wrenching, side-tickling poetry performances with live musical accompaniment. Please note, this showcase begins at 7pm, rather than 7:30pm as with previous Loud Poets showcases. This will be the consistent start time for Loud Poets events at the SSC moving forward. “Loud Poets is tearing up the landscape, bringing the ancient art to contemporary audiences – spreading mirth, giggles and talent along the way.” - Corr Blimey “Go listen to Loud Poets and hear them say the things you’ve been trying to say yourself.” - Shane Koyczan “There’s a humour, poignancy and most of all confidence which serves to inspire.” - Scotsman Loud Poets is supported through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Tue 24 Nov: 7:30pm) The moon begins to form as the moon spinners wash their wool in the sea, winding it again into a white ball in the sky and re-creating the phases and cycles that guide our seasons, and our stories... Join us for our quarterly series of full-moon celebrations, with live storytelling, music, song and a rotating programme of incredible performers. Following the Celtic Wheel of the Year (the quarterly seasons of Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh and Samhuinn) we look forward to moon myths, lunar legends and cross-cultural stories, revealing themes of creation, fertility, cosmic joy, transformation, death and rebirth. ~~~~~ Moonspinners events will follow two distinct phases, with the first half of performance in the Netherbow Theatre, followed by a social and conversational flow upstairs in the Storytelling Court with a chance to digest and discuss the stories amongst friends old and new. Mark it in your diary, or just follow the moon to guide you here! ~~~~~ Image credit: Hester Aspland
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Multiple Spaces
Another fun and friendly session of Edinburgh’s monthly storytelling club held upstairs in the Waverley Bar, with the usual open-floor section for anyone to share a story, song or poem around the theme or otherwise. Supported by the Scottish Storytelling Forum and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
The Waverley Bar
(Wed 9 Dec: 7pm) Nights are growing long and dark. Cold nips the air. It’s time to braid our evergreen circle - time to join the Burgh Blatherers for their Winter Warmer. Members of Edinburgh's own storytelling club present a heartfelt season finale to their year of storytelling ceilidhs and fan the embers of the year into flame of warming cheer and conviviality. Sit back and enjoy!
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Online On-Demand) Another Story is our podcast series exploring some of the themes featured in recent festivals. Tune in to hear some wonderful storytellers share their favourite tales and chat about storytelling in Scotland and beyond. So join us for Another Story... Available wherever you get your podcasts, including Spotify, Apple, Google and Amazon. Follow us by liking and subscribing so you don’t miss an episode! Listen Here
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Online SISF
(Fri 13-Thu 26 Mar) Families Belong Together stems from a research project conducted by Reunite Families UK (RFUK) between 2022 and 2025, exploring the impact of the UK’s spouse/partner migration rules - some of the harshest in the world. Having heard from children, couples, families and professionals about how the rules impact people’s lives, RFUK found that these rules undermine the mental health of families and children, make them financially insecure and remove from them what all of us consider a basic human right: loving whomever we choose, regardless of our passport or income. Many couples face long-term separation or exile due to the rules. Commissioned by RFUK, photographer Frankie Mills documents the lives of 10 couples and families to illustrate the human cost of the spouse/partner migration policy and their sense of being continuously in limbo. This exhibition is linked to a roundtable discusssion with journalists, artists, academics and charity leaders on family migration and reunion, taking place at the Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities on Wed 25 March as part of the post-doctoral project Loving Across Borders led by Dr. Vanessa Montesi. Image credit Frankie Mills
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Thu 19 Mar: 7:30pm) Join us on the eve of World Storytelling Day for the first Hearth Fire Session of 2026! An eclectic night of ancient myth, contemporary storytelling, post-folk music, and physical artistry, steeped in the traditions of Scottish storytelling. We evoke the warm atmosphere of peat-smoked hearthsides and ceilidh house revelry, presenting timeless motifs relevant to a discerning modern audience. Join host Dougie Mackay as he invites a different selection of Scotland’s finest storytellers, songwriters, musicians, and performing artists to each session, creating an innovative showcase of Scotland’s contemporary culture. ~~~~~ For our March session we celebrate the Spring equinox and World Storytelling Day (20 Mar) with guest storytellers Beverley Bryant, Linda Perttula and musician Esther Swift. Beverley Bryant is a storyteller, celebrant and death educator, based in Fife but travelling widely sharing stories to a wdie range of audience. Beverley is also Chair of the Scottish Storytelling Forum and is an active and enthusiastic champion of storytelling in Scotland. As well as her celebrant work Beverley regularly works in collaboration with Heather Yule as ‘Glamourie’, delivering bespoke programmes of storytelling with harp music for corporate events, tourism, outdoor education facilities and education. Dougie Mackay hails from the Scottish Highlands, from a lineage of natural storytellers. He is fascinated by the wild northern tales of Scotland, Scandinavia, Ireland and the Baltics, with a practice steeped in group-work facilitation and storytelling as a tool for development, connection and empowerment. He has been telling stories professionally for over 10 years and has developed successful long-form shows including Animate Lands and A Wolf Shall Devour the Sun. He co-curates and hosts Hearth Fire Sessions throughout the year. Linda Perttula is an Edinburgh-based Finnish storyteller. Alongside, singer-songwriter Aino Elina she developed He Sits on the Rock of Joy for the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2025, exploring Finish folklore and the Kalevala. Linda also created the Giant’s Heart Storytelling School with storytellers Svend-Erik Engh and Alice Fernbank. Esther Swift explores ritual, connection, isolation, and the natural world in her performance with pedal harp and voice. A prolific, boldly innovative harpist, composer and singer, Esther works across genres as diverse as classical chamber music and free improvisation, and writes for ensembles large and small. She has travelled to Vietnam, New Zealand, Malaysia, Mongolia, and beyond with her music, and shared international, music lead collaborations with musicians and other artists around the world. She has recently been commissioned by Celtic Connections, Chamber Music Scotland, Manchester Jazz festival and The Edwin Morgan Trust and performed internationally with her band Emergence Ensemble. Esther's debut solo studio album, Expectations of a Lifetime, was released in June 2024.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 20 Mar: 7pm) Coinneamh mhìosail de chultar is coimhearsnachd na Gàidhlig ann an Dùn Èideann, làn sgeulachdan, òrain, ceòl (agus deagh chraic!). Gach mìos bidh sinn a’ cuir fàilte air measgachadh ùr de luchd-ealain, agus mar as àbhaist bidh ùine is àite ann airson còmhraidh, càirdeas agus cèilidh.Sa Mhàrt, cò bhios a’ cèilidh ach: Donnchadh MacLeóid, Rona NicLeòid, Alasdair MacIlleBhàin. Bidh Déirdre Ní Mathuna na bhean an taighe. ’S e buidheann neo-phrothaideach a th’ ann am Bothan Dhùn Èideann, a tha airson còrr is 21 bliadhna, air a bhith a’ brosnachadh is a’ neartachadh cànan is cultar na Gàidhlig ann an Dùn Èideann agus a’ cruthachadh àite far am bi a h-uile duine, ge b’ e dè seòrsa bunntainneas a th’ aca air neo an ìre ris a’ Ghàidhlig, a’ faireachdainn comhfhurtail a’ comharrachadh na Gàidhlig sa bhaile. Tha an tachartas air a ruith gu lèir tro mheadhan na Gàidhlig, agus tha fàilte chridheil air a h-uile duine: fileantaich, luchd-ionnsachaidh, agus a h-uile duine eatorra. ~~~~~ A regular session of Gaelic culture and community in Edinburgh, full of stories, songs, music (and great craic!). Each session brings a fresh mix of performers, with plenty of time and space for conversation, connection, and friendship. The March session will feature Rona MacLeod, Duncan MacLeod and Alasdair Whyte, with MC Déirdre Ní Mathuna. Bothan Dhùn Èideann is a not-for-profit group, active for over 21 years, promoting and developing the Scottish Gaelic language and culture in Edinburgh, and creating a space where everyone, regardless of background, feels comfortable celebrating Gaelic. The event is presented entirely in Gaelic, and all are welcome: fluent speakers, learners, and everyone in between. ~~~~~ ’S ann às an t-Sàilean Mhuileach a tha an Dr Alasdair C. MacIlleBhàin. Tha e na cheòladair, na chleasaiche agus na sgrìobhadair. Tha e air grunn òran a chur air chlàr, nam measg clàr solo (Las, 2012); trì clàran leis a’ chòmhlan WHYTE (Maim, 2021; Tairm, 2019; Fairich, 2016); Òrain Teonaidh Chailein (2024); agus òrain le Niteworks (A' Ghrian, 2022; NW, 2015). Chaidh Maim-slè, ciad leabhar Alasdair, ainmeachadh do Dhuais Dhòmhnaill Meek (Neo-fhicsean) aig Na Duaisean Litreachais 2022. Bha e cuideachd na phrìomh sgrìobhaiche agus na chleasaiche ann an dealbh-chluich don ainm MAIM (2020) a bha co-cheangailte ris an leabhar seo. Dh’fhoillsich e an leabhar Glasgow’s Gaelic Place-Names le Birlinn san t-Sultain 2023. Chaidh Alasdair ainmeachadh mar Thosgaire na Gàidhlig le Riaghaltas na h-Alba ann an 2019 agus air a’ chlàr '40 Under 40' aig Comann Crann na h-Alba ann an 2023. Tha e na òraidiche ann an Ainm-Eòlas Ceilteach aig Oilthigh Ghlaschu. Dr Alasdair C. Whyte is a singer, performer and writer from An Sàilean ~ Salen in Muile ~ Mull. He has recorded his own songs and traditional songs on a number of albums, including a solo album (Las, 2012); three albums with the band WHYTE (Maim, 2021; Tairm, 2019; Fairich, 2016); Òrain Teonaidh Chailein (2024); and songs with Niteworks (A' Ghrian, 2022; NW, 2015). His debut book of original and traditional prose and poetry, Maim-slè, was nominated for the Donald Meek Non- Fiction prize at the 2022 Gaelic Literature awards. He was the lead writer/ actor in the related theatre production MAIM (2020). He published the book Glasgow’s Gaelic Place-Names with Birlinn in 2023. He was named Gaelic Ambassador of the Year by The Scottish Government in 2019 and named on the Saltire Society’s Inaugural ’40 Under 40’ List in 2023. He is currently a Lecturer in Celtic Onomastics at the University of Glasgow. ‘S e bràthair is piuthair à Drochaid a’ Bhanna ann an Cataibh a th’ ann an Donnchadh agus Rona MacLeòid. Tha an dithis ceòlmhor seo air a bhith seinn le chèile bhon a bha iad glè òg, agus le sin tha na guthan aca a’ dol le chèile gu nàdarra le co-sheirmean brèagha. Gheibh sibh blasad de cheòl na fìdhle bho Rona cuideachd le Donnchadh a’ cur taic rithe air a’ phiàno. Tha am fuaim shònraichte aca a’ tighinn bho iomadh stoidhle, nam measg ceòl traidiseanta, ceòl folk, agus stoidhlichean nas ùire. Duncan and Rona are a sibling duo from Bonar Bridge, Sutherland. Having sung and performed together from a young age, their voices naturally blend together with beautiful harmonies. Rona is also an adept fiddler, with Duncan accompanying her on piano. Their unique sound, while strongly influenced by the Gaelic tradition, also takes inspiration from folk and more modern influences. Le taic bho Bhòrd na Gàidhlig agus TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland). With support from Bòrd na Gàidhlig and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland). Alasdair Whyte image credit Calum McCready
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sun 22 Mar: 3pm & 7pm) - SOLD OUT Magic or misogyny? Witches Corner is a socio-political play about the history of witchcraft in Scotland. Written by Eilidh Smith with original songs composed by Rona Johnston, writer of Fringe sell-out Mary: A Gig Theatre Show. Born out of feminine rage and a burning desire for more female-led storytelling, Witches Corner explores the fear of feminine power and the misogynistic roots of the witch trials, challenging gender-based stereotypes and asking the question – are women still on trial today? Step into the shoes of both the accuser and the accused. Would you follow the crowd, be a bystander or stand up for what is right? Witches Corner will make you laugh, cry, and leave you aching for justice. Brought to you by Encapulus Productions, an emerging theatre company who aims to give a platform to unheard stories. “Storytellers of the Soul.” Supported by Dogstar Theatre Company Script Development Programme, Edinburgh Steiner School and the Scottish Fisheries Museum.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 27 Mar: 7:30pm) Along the line where the walls of old Edinburgh once separated the city from the world beyond, in the convivial warmth of the Waverley Bar we will explore the boundaries, walk the line between reality and fiction, wild and domestic, this world and the next... For it is at the edges of things that magic stirs, challenge beckons and change awaits. Come ye edge dwellers and bring along your stories, songs and offerings that sit on the ragged fringes. Join guest storyteller David Hughes for another fun and friendly session of Edinburgh’s monthly storytelling club held upstairs in the Waverley Bar. ~~~~~ David Hughes is a storyteller, science communicator and outdoor educator. With a background in ecological science, he tells stories to speak the land alive. David lends an easy charm and dry wit to the stories he tells and is comfortable telling stories around campfires, beneath magical trees or on stage. He has helped create performance pieces that explore themes of identity, becoming and belonging in old Celtic myth and has also developed solo pieces and commissions with various festivals across the UK, as well as facilitated training sessions and workshops on the craft of storytelling, youth work and nature connection. Supported by the Scottish Storytelling Forum and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
The Waverley Bar
(Sat 28 Mar: 6pm) This is a warm-up gig. I need to warm up because I’m a professional storyteller who hasn’t been in front of an audience for a while. I became a mother this year… no wait... last year… sorry, I haven’t been sleeping. Sleep deprivation is weird, time warps in the long darkness and the oldest stories are coming to me. Our shadows lie with all those other creatures in their nests, surrounded by ice sheets and night skies. For me, with sleep deprivation, it's like there’s no medium term; everything is immediate or eternal. I may not know where my shoes are but … for a moment… I'm pretty confident, I understand quantum theory and its something about stories. Time to warm up. ~~~~~ 2026 marks the 20th anniversary of the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Join us across the year for some familiar faces, some brand new work and one or two surprises to celebrate! Logo credit Madeleine Klebanoff O'Brien.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sun 29 Mar: 11am & 12pm) As the snowdrops pop their heads above the earth and fresh winds blow away the dark clouds of winter, step inside the Story Circle and hear tales of springtime with Shona Cowie. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sun 29 Mar: 12pm - 3pm) Musicians Claire Gullan and Kirstie McLanaghan return to host another fantastic TAM Session, the collaborative project that combines two of their passions - playing trad music and arts & crafting. The TAM Sessions is an open and informal trad session, but with the lovely additional invitation to bring your sewing, knitting, crochet, or any other crafting project that you enjoy. Being able to play an instrument is not a pre-requisite and we welcome non-musicians to enjoy the tunes while they craft. In the same vein, please come along for a tune even if you don’t craft. Everyone is welcome! The driving factor behind this project is joy. A joyful experience has a direct, positive impact on our mental health. Community building through creative arts also creates a real sense of belonging and connectedness. Proficiency is not important, just come along and enjoy! ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fortnightly on Mondays: 7pm) Join us for fist-thumping, pint-drinking, side-tickling, award-winning poetry! Loud Poets invite poets to share their work at their regular open mic, now taking place at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in the relaxed surroundings of the Storytelling Court. All styles of poetry are welcome and with a different feature performer every time, this event offers a supportive, creative environment for all. Doors will open at 6:30pm for a 7pm start with two short intervals, wrapping up around 9.30pm. Loud Poets will be managing sign-ups. To sign up to perform, please fill out the sign-up form for the date on which you'd like to perform. This form will close one week before the event, after which they will email you to let you know if you have a guaranteed performance spot. Two spots are always left open to be filled by random draw from poets who sign up on the door. Slots are five minutes and poets are welcome to perform as many or few poems as you would like within that time. You are welcome to go under the five minutes, but please do not go over out of respect to your fellow performers. A message from Loud Poets about this event:"At our open mic and all of our events, we endeavour to create a safe, welcoming space for all to attend and share their work. We ask performers to be respectful of the diversity of our experiences. We do not tolerate any forms of discrimination and harassment. Don't punch down. Performers and attendees who violate this policy will be asked to leave." The Loud Poets Open Mic is organised by I Am Loud CIC, through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding. It is produced and hosted by Mark Gallie.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 3 Apr-Sun 10 May) Stories gathered in the Scottish Highlands made visible using scraps of discarded fabric by storyteller and artist Lizzie McDougall. It has been a long and winding, sometimes windy, sometimes wondrous road that has led to this exhibition. The Quilts illustrate stories gathered in the Highlands from the people who live there; old stories that connect places with people, patching together a timeless but fragile sense of community. The artist says: "I wanted to make this more visible in the hope of giving some strength and presence to this delicate strand of our heritage. One wild and windy night I saw in my minds eye old stories being blown and scattered, some caught in the trees like the strips of cloth left out for Bride on the eve of Imbolc or gifts to the fairies around Clooty Wells. So I began gathering scraps of discarded fabric too. This was how the idea to make the Quilts began. The practice of making them has been very varied, some I have created alone and sometimes I have invited others to join the process. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has in one way or another contributed to all the special pieces that make up the StoryQuilts from hosting sessions, gifting stories or fabric, embroidering, stitching, ironing or bringing tea and baking." ~~~~~ Lizzie McDougall grew up in Edinburgh and attended to Edinburgh College of Art. As a child she was lucky enough to hear Highland stories from Mrs Dunlop the Barrel Organ Lady and Compton MacKenzie, which inspired Lizzie to travel the Highlands listening out for stories. For many years her artistic practice included promoting all art forms and running festivals and community events in the Highlands. After the Seer Festival in 2001, she felt a need to go back to Art College and combined Art with a BA in the Cultural Studies of the Highlands and Islands at UHI. Since then she has focused more on Storytelling and Art inspired by stories and visits museums, libraries, schools and historic buildings sharing Highland stories. She has been making the Highland StoryQuilts for over a decade to make visible and give presence to the rich but delicate tradition of Highland storytelling.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Wed 8 Apr: 7pm) Heavens above! Do you long to fly? Or to travel beyond the stars? Bring us stories of birds, clouds, constellations and the inhabitants of the heavens high above our earthbound feet. Join the Burgh Blatherers for a series of regular open-floor storytelling nights taking place throughout the year, a cosy gathering in the relaxed surroundings of the Storytelling Court with refreshments available from the Haggis Box Café. Hosted by Bob Mitchell and members of Edinburgh's own storytelling club who will transport you with their own stories and imaginative weavings while offering you the chance to tell your own tales!
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 10 Apr: 7:30pm) Queer Folks’ Tales continues its fifth year at SSC and its 2026 run with another fantabulosa line up. As always, queer storytellers galore from around Edinburgh and Scotland share stories of LGBTQ+ lives, past, present and future. Sometimes hilarious, often moving, occasionally shocking, the mix of true and fictional stories is as varied as the range of storytellers we invite. Household names feature alongside new and diverse queer storytellers from different communities of Scotland. Many of the stories told at QFT will be true stories of LGBTQ+ experience in Scotland today. Hosted by Edinburgh’s Turan Ali, who is joined in April by Fife writer/actor Michael Johnson, Texan singer-songwriter Lake Montgomery and Irish actor/writer Conor O’Dwyer. ~~~~~ Turan Ali has been a producer, director and writer of BBC radio dramas and comedies for over 20 years. He’s been a stage storyteller since 2012, and a stand up since 2021. He tours internationally, and has two sell out monthly storytelling shows in Vienna. He’s the creator, producer and host of Queer Folks’ Tales (QFT) for which he won the Creative Edinburgh Leadership Award 2024. QFT now tours across Scotland and is Creative Scotland funded. Michael Johnson is an actor/writer from Glenrothes, Fife. He founded Without Compromise Theatre, a new writing company dedicated to telling stories for and represented by working class and low income people. He debuted his writing at the Edinburgh Fringe 2024 with Wish You Were Here, which has been performed around Fife and raises money for 'Change Mental Health'. Michael won the Creative Edinburgh Development Award 2024. Lake Montgomery is a singer-songwriter from Paris, Texas now based in Edinburgh. Backed by a love for old blues and show tunes, she performs her own intimate stories with a hint of fury. Her influences range from church-house gospel, funk & soul, hymns and especially Nina Simone. She has performed internationally and has many recordings to her credit. “She makes songs that hurt your heart happy.” Conor O'Dwyer is an early-career Edinburgh-based stage/screen actor/writer from Galway, Ireland. His debut solo show Homo(sapien) premiered at the Dublin Gay Theatre Festival in 2025, winning Best New Writing Award and coming to Edinburgh Fringe ’25. Conor's subsequent plays are The Things You Can Only Lose Once, (Framework Theatre) and Rootbound, which is in development with support from Creative Scotland. ★★★★★ 'Edinburgh's most vibrant, authentic and exciting storytelling event' (The Wee Review)★★★★★ 'Utterly fabulous' (TheQR.co.uk)★★★★★ (BroadwayBaby.com)MUST SEE 'Legendary' (Fringe Review) Queer Folks' Tales is supported by Creative Scotland
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 11 Apr: 10:30am) A hands-on, practical introduction to live storytelling and the associated skills. Storyteller Alice Fernbank leads this participatory session for anyone curious about discovering and developing their own storytelling talent. Let out your inner storyteller and learn to craft your skills. For new and aspiring storytellers. Alice Fernbank has been an active part of the Scottish storytelling community for over a decade, appearing in school events, theatres, and festivals including SISF and Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Her work has taken her abroad to festivals in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and most recently to Palabras al Vuelo Festival on Lanzerote. She regularly leads story walks around Edinburgh, sharing the legends and histories of the city with travellers from across the globe. Nurturing others in the art of storytelling is a passion of Alice’s and she has acted as mentor and story coach to many emerging storytellers. Listening closely and responding with energising feedback to reveal a storyteller’s unique, authentic expression is key to Alice’s approach. ~~~~~~~~~~ Presented by the Scottish Storytelling Forum, these participatory sessions are designed to help you improve your skills and share your experiences with fellow storytelling enthusiasts. This carefully curated workshop programme offers you the chance to work with highly-skilled and experienced artists, giving you guidance on improving your practice and discovering your own talent.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Sun 12 Apr: 11am & 12pm) Spring sunshine? Wild winds? April showers? Whatever the weather, gather into the Story Circle with Sarah Wedderburn-Ogilvy for splashy and sunny stories of spring. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 24 Apr: 7:30pm) Join herbal storyteller Amanda Edmiston (Botanica Fabula) for an evening 'Near Beltane's Eve', a reworking of the legends of the marriage of the May Queen and the Green Man, drawing on the plant, fire and faerie filled stories that grow through the folklore surrounding this season. Do you dare loiter under the Hawthorn tree? Another fun and friendly session of Edinburgh’s monthly storytelling club held upstairs in the Waverley Bar, with the usual open-floor section for anyone to share a story, song or poem around the theme or otherwise. ~~~~~ Writer and profession herbal storyteller with a background in herbal medicine, Amanda Edmiston takes people into other worlds through her stories, redolent with layers of history, lore, and the oft-forgotten wisdom of the natural environment. Immersion into one of Amanda's stories involves all the senses and reveals facts that threaten to drift from the everyday consciousness. Supported by the Scottish Storytelling Forum and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
The Waverley Bar
(Thu 30 Apr: 7pm) Don’t miss the next fantastic show from Scotland’s premiere spoken word night! For over ten years, Loud Poets has been showcasing the best spoken word poetry from Scotland and beyond. Expect fist-thumping, heart-wrenching, side-tickling poetry performances with live musical accompaniment. April's line-up features Natalie Elizabeth, Jasmine Gardosi, Jake Wild Hall and Beth Rose. Please note, this showcase begins at 7pm, rather than 7:30pm as with previous Loud Poets showcases. This will be the consistent start time for Loud Poets events at the SSC moving forward. “Loud Poets is tearing up the landscape, bringing the ancient art to contemporary audiences – spreading mirth, giggles and talent along the way.” - Corr Blimey “Go listen to Loud Poets and hear them say the things you’ve been trying to say yourself.” - Shane Koyczan “There’s a humour, poignancy and most of all confidence which serves to inspire.” - Scotsman Loud Poets is supported through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 1 May: 7:30pm) The moon begins to form as the moon spinners wash their wool in the sea, winding it again into a white ball in the sky and re-creating the phases and cycles that guide our seasons, and our stories... Join us for our quarterly series of full-moon celebrations, with live storytelling, music, song and a rotating programme of incredible performers. Following the Celtic Wheel of the Year (the quarterly seasons of Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh and Samhuinn) we look forward to moon myths, lunar legends and cross-cultural stories, revealing themes of creation, fertility, cosmic joy, transformation, death and rebirth. ~~~~~ For our Beltane session we welcome you under the full Flower Moon with another exciting lineup of storytellers, this month featuring Josie Duncan and Anna Lehr, with Claire McNicol and Linda Williamson. Beltane, the first of May, when the King of the Fairies lets loose the fairies... The Little People are shut up under the hills all winter, then for three months they can do as they please. Fairy Folk work among flowers and among plants, helping Mother Nature, and at the end of July they are gone. So excited when set free at the beginning of summer, they have their ceilidh and lucky is the person who is in that place... a fairy hillock, or on Calton Hill with Edinburgh's Beltane Fire Society! In addition to the stellar lineup of performers, Moonspinners are delighted to be sharing the second half of their full moon Beltane event with two traditional dancers, Hao Zheng and Luo Yeung, representing the cultural treasures of this Chinese year’s third lunar month, the full Peach Moon birthday of Wu Tao, God of Protection/Medicine, a legendary healer of dragon eyes and tiger throats. Multicultural festivals and international lunar celebrations all happening on the 1st of May; dancing, storytelling, singing - we just can’t wait. ~~~~~ Moonspinners events will follow two distinct phases, with the first half of performance in the Netherbow Theatre, followed by a social and conversational flow upstairs in the Storytelling Court with a chance to digest and discuss the stories amongst friends old and new. Mark it in your diary, or just follow the moon to guide you here! ~~~~~ Image credit: Hester Aspland
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Multiple Spaces
(Sat 2 & Sat 9 May: 2pm) Explore an ancient link between trees and language; learning Gaelic names for trees and looking at the beith-luis-nin, a form of the early medieval Ogham alphabet as a prompt for creating improvised music. During this two-day workshop with musician Susannah Stark, participants will get to know the variety of Ogham inscriptions in Scotland, learn the names of different trees in the surrounding area in Gaelic and Ogham, and work with field recordings, acoustic and electronic instruments and your voices, responding to improvisation prompts and creating visual scores for improvising together. Open to musicians of any background and level of experience who are willing to improvise, try vocal practices, and open to group working. ~~~~~ Susannah Stark’s longstanding interest in the art of song and multi-lingual expression inspires a songwriting process by which she aims to give voice to intangible moments of everyday life & creative inspiration in their raw form. Susannah first presented her work with song through collaboration with MC Don Hayden in surround sound audio for Art Basel Miami 2016, before going on to release a debut solo album of experimental pop music, Time Together Hues and Intensities with Belgian label Stroom that featured in Mojo magazine’s 2020 best of year charts and more. Joining forces with trumpet player Phil Cardwell, drummer Laurie Pitt, and accordionist Caroline Hussey they created Mion-phuingean (Minor Gestures), an extended folk session in locations around the Govan stones, river Clyde and underground waters featuring new Gaelic songwriting. They have played live in Scotland, the UK and Europe and had music shared on Late Junction, BBC 6 Music and NTS among others. Susannah is also a part of Scottish drone-folk love song project, stravsky & pelè, also released on Stroom.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Sat 2 May: 8pm) This live score archive film screening event featuring the acclaimed accordionist and composer Padruig Morrison, with fiddler and Gaelic singer Claire Frances MacNeil will celebrate the launch of the FAODAIL | FOUND Outer Hebrides Film Archive website, funded by the British Film Institute. Until as late as 1979 very little, if any, publicly-available film created in or about the Outer Hebrides came from anything other than an outsider's perspective. This lack of an indigenous viewpoint led, at best, to an uninformed, and often romanticised or patronising, representation of island life in the twentieth century. The FAODAIL | FOUND project seeks to redress this imbalance and has so far digitised over 25 hours of 8mm home movies through crowdfunding. The archive is a unique and important documentation of social history of the Outer Hebrides that has gained recognition already through documentaries produced by UistFilm such as Dùthchas, Faodail - Found Film and Beatha nan Eilean. Presented by the Folk Film Gathering.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 3 May: 11am) We’ve probably all been to a cèilidh dance; maybe even seen dancing at a Highland Games; but what actually is understood by ‘Traditional Dance’ in Scotland? Join author, scholar, dancer and dance teacher Pat Ballantyne to find out, in the relaxed environment of the George Mackay Brown Library (or, if you prefer, in the comfort of your own home). If joining us in-person, stay on afterwards for an introductory session with Pat to try Step Dance yourself!
Scottish Storytelling Centre
George Mackay Brown Library
(Sun 3 May: 1pm) Step Dance is Scotland’s indigenous percussive dance tradition: a magical combination of music and movement. Led by expert tutor Pat Ballantyne with musical accompaniment by fantastic fiddler-piper duo Sarah Hoy and Fin Moore, this introductory session is for anyone interested in taking their first steps in one of Scotland’s most thrilling Traditional Dance forms in a relaxed environment. ~~~~~ This event is part of Easy Sundays, a fortnightly session of stories, music, community and friendship, with a variety of activities for all to enjoy. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre to create a warm and welcoming space for the community. Supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sun 3 May: 7:30pm) Across Cumbria, roads wend their way through picturesque countryside. Ancient dry stone walls hold the stories of the dead that were carried past on these secret and haunted trails. The Corpse Road follows the rise and fall, the twists and turns of these paths to tell the tale of characters that were carried to their final resting place. Storyteller Daniel Serridge and musician Heather Cartwright weave stories and songs together in this evocative and unnerving folkloric journey to the grave.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Mon 4 May: 11am) Crafting is popular like never before, from basket-making to knitting, potting to printmaking; but where are the roots of all this contemporary crafting, and what counts as ‘Traditional Craft’? Join Heritage Craft’s expert Mary Lewis, along with craft artists Simon Cooper and Anna Liebmann to find out, in the relaxed environment of the George Mackay Brown Library (or, if you prefer, in the comfort of your own home). Want to try your own hand at crafting? Stick around for one or both of our afternoon workshops on Hand-Bound Brush Making and Willow-weaving.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
George Mackay Brown Library
(Mon 4 May: 1pm & 3pm) Whether you count yourself a canny crafter already, or think you’re not crafty at all, come and try your hand at the beautiful and practical craft of hand-bound brush making, under the expert tutelage of Simon Cooper. Enjoy learning to make something that’s both lovely and useful, with the pleasure of taking your brush home with you! Keen for more crafting? Come and try Willow-weaving with Anna Liebmann either before or after your brush-making session.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
George Mackay Brown Library
(Mon 4 May: 1pm & 3pm) Adorn your home with your very own willow woven decorations! Try your hand at willow weaving under the expert guidance of local basketmaker Anna Liebmann. Learn the very basics of one of the oldest known (and still modern!) crafts, and leave with your hard work in hand. Keen for more crafting? Come and try Hand-Bound Brush Making with Simon Cooper either before or after your weaving session.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Tue 5 May: 1pm) In this week of Edinburgh Tradfest this might seem a daft question, but come and challenge your preconceptions with a fresh perspective from guest speaker Claire Frances MacNeil - native of Barra, Gaelic singer, fiddler, scholar and recipient of the Gold Medal for traditional singing at the 2024 National Mòd. Stay on afterwards for a free session of music from members of the Scots Music Group at Cafe Cèilidh.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
George Mackay Brown Library
(Tues 17 Mar, 5 May, 16 Jun, 22 Sep & 17 Nov: 2pm) Join friends from the Scots Music Group for an afternoon session of traditional songs, music, poems and stories, held in the relaxed setting of the Storytelling Court. All welcome to listen or bring a tune for a turn.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Thu 7 May: 6pm) Storytelling comes in all shapes and sizes, but how do we know what makes it ‘traditional’ or not? Join Orkney storyteller Tom Muir as he brings a fresh Northern sea breeze to this sometimes misty matter. If joining us in-person, stay on afterwards to hear Tom in action at one of our regular celebrated Hearth Fire Sessions (ticketed separately).
Scottish Storytelling Centre
George Mackay Brown Library
(Thu 7 May: 7:30pm) Welcome to an eclectic night of ancient myth, contemporary storytelling, post-folk music, and physical artistry. Steeped in the traditions of Scottish storytelling, we evoke the warm atmosphere of peat-smoked hearthsides and ceilidh house revelry, presenting timeless motifs relevant to a discerning modern audience. Join host Dougie Mackay as he invites a different selection of Scotland’s finest storytellers, songwriters, musicians, and performing artists to each session, creating an innovative showcase of Scotland’s contemporary culture. In May, join Dougie, storytellers Rikka Palonen and Tom Muir and musician Danica Boyd for a special Tradfest session. ~~~~~ Dougie Mackay hails from the Scottish Highlands, from a lineage of natural storytellers. He is fascinated by the wild northern tales of Scotland, Scandinavia, Ireland and the Baltics, with a practice steeped in group-work facilitation and storytelling as a tool for development, connection and empowerment. He has been telling stories professionally for over 10 years and has developed successful long-form shows including Animate Lands and A Wolf Shall Devour the Sun. He co-curates and hosts Hearth Fire Sessions throughout the year.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 8 May: 1pm) Fiù ’s mur eil Gàidhlig agad, ma tha thu a’ fuireach ann an Alba, tha fios gum bi thu mothachail air beartas agus bòidhchead a’ chànain agus a traidiseanan cultarail - gu sònraichte ann am bàrdachd, sgeulachdan agus ceòl. Thig an cuideachd Gàidheal cliùiteach, an ceòladair Brian Ó hEadhra gus barrachd ionnsachadh mu phrìomh àite na Gàidhlig ann a bhith a’ toirt cruth air Ealain Thraidiseanta ann an Alba bhon àm a dh’fhalbh chun an latha an-diugh. Even if there’s no Gaelic ‘at you’, living in Scotland you can’t fail to be aware of the richness and beauty of the language and its cultural traditions - in poetry, storytelling and music in particular. Join celebrated Gael and musician Brian Ó hEadhra to learn more about Gaelic’s central role in defining the Traditional Arts in Scotland to this day.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
George Mackay Brown Library
(Fri 8 May: 2:30pm) Bidh òrain Gàidhlig a’ pòsadh faclan is fonn ri chèile gu foirfe; agus chan eil duine sam bith a tha nas fheàrr gus seo a dhearbhadh na an seinneadair is neach-ciùil Gàidhlig Brian Ó hEadhra a bhios gur stiùireadh sa bhùth-obrach seo a tha fosgailte do dhaoine de gach comas, a’ coimhead air na seòrsaichean òrain Ghàidhlig as cudromaiche - a’ gabhail a-steach port-à-beul, òrain luaidh, agus sàr-òrain cèilidh. Chan fheum eòlas a bhith agad air a’ Ghàidhlig roimhe, ach bhiodh beagan eòlais air seinn feumail. Gaelic song is the perfect marriage of word and tune. There’s none better to demonstrate this than Gaelic singer and musician Brian Ó hEadhra, who’ll be your guide in this workshop open to all abilities and covering the essential Gaelic song types - including port-à-beul (mouth music), waulking songs, and some cèilidh classics. No prior experience in Gaelic required, though some singing experience is desirable.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 8 May: 7pm) Coinneamh mhìosail de chultar is coimhearsnachd na Gàidhlig ann an Dùn Èideann, làn sgeulachdan, òrain, ceòl (agus deagh chraic!). Gach mìos bidh sinn a’ cuir fàilte air measgachadh ùr de luchd-ealain, agus mar as àbhaist bidh ùine is àite ann airson còmhraidh, càirdeas agus cèilidh. ’S e buidheann neo-phrothaideach a th’ ann am Bothan Dhùn Èideann, a tha airson còrr is 21 bliadhna, air a bhith a’ brosnachadh is a’ neartachadh cànan is cultar na Gàidhlig ann an Dùn Èideann agus a’ cruthachadh àite far am bi a h-uile duine, ge b’ e dè seòrsa bunntainneas a th’ aca air neo an ìre ris a’ Ghàidhlig, a’ faireachdainn comhfhurtail a’ comharrachadh na Gàidhlig sa bhaile. Tha an tachartas air a ruith gu lèir tro mheadhan na Gàidhlig, agus tha fàilte chridheil air a h-uile duine: fileantaich, luchd-ionnsachaidh, agus a h-uile duine eatorra. ~~~~~ A regular session of Gaelic culture and community in Edinburgh, full of stories, songs, music (and great craic!). Each session brings a fresh mix of performers, with plenty of time and space for conversation, connection, and friendship. Bothan Dhùn Èideann is a not-for-profit group, active for over 21 years, promoting and developing the Scottish Gaelic language and culture in Edinburgh, and creating a space where everyone, regardless of background, feels comfortable celebrating Gaelic. The event is presented entirely in Gaelic, and all are welcome: fluent speakers, learners, and everyone in between. Le taic bho Bhòrd na Gàidhlig agus TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland). With support from Bòrd na Gàidhlig and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland)
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sat 9 May: 1pm) With the passing of the Scottish Languages Act last year, Scots (along with Gaelic) finally got its long-overdue official recognition as one of Scotland’s national languages. Come and learn more about the cultural kist o riches, from the medieval makars to the Bothy Ballads in this session led by Scots speaker and singer, Steve Byrne, as he takes you through Scots’ central place in the Traditional Arts in Scotland. Stay on for a celebration of Scots song at the drop-in Young Scots Singers event from 2:30pm.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sat 9 May: 2:30pm) Calling all Scots sangsters under 30! An afternoon of song sharing and learning for younger singers in the Scots tradition, of all levels of experience. Share your Scots songs in a friendly, welcoming environment, in an event aiming to support the next generation of singers in the Scots leid. Hosted by Steve Byrne and Scott Gardiner in conjunction with Edinburgh University Folk Society and the World's Room singing club. ~~~ Caain aa Scots sangsters unner 30! An efternuin o sang sharin an lairnin fur younger sangsters in the Scots tradeition, o aa levels o experience. Share yer Scots sangs in a blythe, walcomin environs, in a gaitherin tae forder the neist generation o sangsters in the Scots leid. Wi Steve Byrne an Scott Gardiner in pairtnership wi Embra Varsity Folk Society an The Warld's Room sang howff.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sat 9 May: 7:30pm) This theatrical retelling weaves Scottish folklore through Wilhelm Hauff’s The Cold Heart, blending German Romanticism and Highland myth. The story follows Peter Munk, a poor charcoal burner’s son whose desire for wealth and belonging draws him into a dangerous bargain with forces older than the forest itself. As riches come at a terrible cost, Peter is forced to confront the consequences of his choices. Haunted by loss and guided by ancient spirits, he must decide what kind of heart he is willing to live with — and what price he will pay to reclaim his humanity. Guided by narrator and storyteller Franziska Droll, accompanied by musician and composer Greg Harradine, who weaves an atmospheric musical landscape with skill and sensitivity, the performance moves between spoken word, song, and folklore. A dark, evocative folk tale of ambition, memory, and redemption. ~~~~~ 2026 marks the 20th anniversary of the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Join us across the year for some familiar faces, some brand new work and one or two surprises to celebrate! Developed with support from the Traditional Arts Fund.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 10 May: 10am-6pm) Join TRACS and partners for a jam-packed all-day celebration of the very best in the Traditional Arts at the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Intrigued by Intangible Cultural Heritage and would love to know more? Come to the Living Heritage Fayre to find out all you want to know from Scotland’s experts in the field, whilst having a go yourself in our come and try craft, dance, music and storytelling taster workshops. We’re thrilled to have with us Michael Fortune, Ireland’s folklore aficionado, who’ll be talking to us about our Celtic cousins’ approach to ICH and tradition-bearing, as well as his own amazing work through the folklore.ie platform. We round off the day with a traditional house cèilidh, a welcoming showcase of traditional craft, dance, music and song with participation warmly encouraged. ScheduleLiving Heritage Fayre (10am-2pm, Storytelling Court)Come & Try Sessions (10:30am-1:30pm, multiple spaces at SSC)An Afternoon with Michael Fortune of folklore.ie (2-3:30pm, Theatre)TRACS House Ceilidh (4-6pm, Storytelling Court)
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Multiple Spaces
(Sat 16 May: 10:30am) Sharing stories with people living with dementia is a creative and collaborative practice. Whether you are a care partner, a storyteller or work/volunteer in the third sector or a residential care setting, this workshop will give you the tools to make a story resonate with neurologically diverse audiences and ensure your creative event is dementia inclusive. Jan Bee Brown is a storyteller with ten years of experience shaping and sharing stories for dementia-inclusive events such as Raven Tales (Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2024/2025). Jan currently manages a Dementia Meeting Centre at the Heart of Newhaven Community where she combines person-centred storytelling with music and crafting to build resilience in times of change. ~~~~~~~~~~ Presented by the Scottish Storytelling Forum, these participatory sessions are designed to help you improve your skills and share your experiences with fellow storytelling enthusiasts. This carefully curated workshop programme offers you the chance to work with highly-skilled and experienced artists, giving you guidance on improving your practice and discovering your own talent.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Wed 20 May: 7pm) Finding Balance is a night of bold new theatre that celebrates creativity, collaboration, and the process of making work. Produced by Balancing Act Theatre, the event brings together writers, directors, and performers to share fresh ideas with a live audience in a relaxed and supportive environment. The evening will feature a series of short, original pieces – from thought-provoking drama to playful comedy – giving artists the opportunity to test new work and audiences the chance to experience theatre at its most immediate and exciting. More than just a performance, Finding Balance is about community: creating space for emerging voices, encouraging experimentation, and connecting artists and audiences in meaningful ways. Join them for an evening of new writing, creativity, and discovery as Balancing Act Theatre continues its mission to support developing artists and bring new stories to the stage.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Wed 27 May: 4pm) A compelling and sensitive new book by Angus Macmillan, the well-known Lewis-born poet and writer and member of The Lochies folk group. It describes his upbringing in the Gaelic-speaking crofting village of Lemreway, viewed through the prisms of the four elements – earth, air, fire and water – to explore how we come to understand a sense of place, home and belonging. The lived experiences he so beautifully evokes through poetic narratives are then viewed from psychological and philosophical perspectives which speak to universal concerns about social cohesion that resonate beyond the boundaries of the islands: the lures and traps of nostalgia – what we can and cannot return to, in the context of social change and the passage of time. Photo courtesy James Smith
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Wed 27 May: 7:30pm) Enjoy live storytelling in the relaxed setting of the Netherbow Theatre, where the amazing apprentice storytellers will show off their skills and explore a different theme with every performance. Presented by the Scottish Storytelling Forum.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Wed 10 Jun: 7pm) The sun is high in the sky and the long road beckons! Take us on a journey with travelling tales from near or far. Join the Burgh Blatherers for a series of regular open-floor storytelling nights taking place throughout the year, a cosy gathering in the relaxed surroundings of the Storytelling Court with refreshments available from the Haggis Box Café. Hosted by Bob Mitchell and members of Edinburgh's own storytelling club who will transport you with their own stories and imaginative weavings while offering you the chance to tell your own tales!
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sat 13 Jun: 11am) Come and explore the catalogue of Gaelic songs written and performed by Runrig, from their first ever album Play Gaelic, which included some of the biggest songs of their career, to more contemporary Gaelic songs that helped shape the Gaelic folk scene and inspire many singers over the last 50 years. Calum and Rory Macdonald were the key Gaelic songwriters of the last 50 years, and their songs helped shape the Gaelic singing world to what it is today. Many of their songs are now used at the biggest Gaelic festival in the world, The Royal National Mòd. Thigibh agus rannsaichibh clàr nan òran Gàidhlig a sgrìobh is a sheinn Runrig bhon chiad chlàr aca a-riamh Play Gaelic, anns an robh cuid de na h-òrain as motha nan cùrsa-beatha, gu òrain Gàidhlig nas co-aimsireil a chuidich le bhith a’ cumadh sealladh dùthchail na Gàidhlig agus a’ brosnachadh mòran sheinneadairean thar nan 50 bliadhna a dh’fhalbh. B’ e Calum agus Ruaraidh MacDhòmhnaill prìomh sgrìobhadairean òrain na Gàidhlig thar nan 50 bliadhna a dh’fhalbh agus chuidich na h-òrain aca le bhith a’ cumadh saoghal seinn na Gàidhlig chun na tha e an-diugh, agus cluinnidh sibh mòran de na h-òrain aca gan cleachdadh aig an fhèis Ghàidhealach as motha san t-saoghal, Am Mòd Nàiseanta Rìoghail. ~~~~~ Norrie Tago MacIver is a singer-songwriter from the Isle of Lewis, with a reputation as one of Gaelic music’s most versatile and accomplished voices. Until November 2025 he was the lead singer of Skipinnish, one of Scotland’s most popular and dynamic folk bands, for nine years. Known for his powerful voice, melodic flair, and deep roots in Gaelic tradition, Norrie has brought his signature style to sold-out venues across the UK, including the Barrowlands and Edinburgh Castle. In December 2011, Norrie was voted Gaelic Singer of the Year at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards, and in 2021 he won the Online Performance of the year. He has two solo albums under his name and also released an album of new songs with the Glasgow Barons called Songs of Govan Old.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
Sat 13 June 2026 (2pm), Fri 20 Nov 2026 (7:30pm) Drawing on his family’s Holocaust history, his own experience of disability, and Rudolf Steiner’s Philosophy of Freedom, Iddo Oberski weaves a deeply personal journey with his onstage (puppet) counterpart, Svjetlana, a dialogue that constantly surprises and reveals new layers of understanding. In Balancing in Freedom, Iddo fuses storytelling, movement, puppetry, visual art, music, spoken word, magic, and philosophy into a living artwork that shifts between intimacy and spectacle, exploring what it means to be human, and our ongoing search for freedom, connection, and meaning. Just as you think you know where it’s heading, the performance transforms again, surprising, thought-provoking, and always engaging. Following a sold-out, standing-ovation premiere at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, Balancing in Freedom returns to the stage in 2026. Moving, insightful, and unlike any other show, it invites every audience member to take away something unique and personal. After each performance, audiences are invited to take part in a 30-minute facilitated discussion. Written and performed by Iddo Oberski, co-direction and creative mentorship by Mark Kydd. 'Exquisite beyond words.''Your presentation was a most profound and deeply moving one. You managed to combine heart-serious content with art, humour and entertainment.' 'I was struck by your powerful story and the way you told it.' Funded by Creative Scotland. Sponsored by the Authentic Artist Collective and the Salisbury Centre.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 13 & Sun 14 Jun: 7:30pm) A contemporary, poetic yet realistic narrative with a cinematic gaze, engaging with the Europe of tomorrow and bringing audiences into contact with its ordinary people. Set in 2040, in the so-called “Old Neuropa,” four individuals — Xenia, Ingrid, Melina and Aris — move within a landscape of constant control, in a society of limited sovereignty and continuous surveillance. They walk a path that leads either to annihilation or to the so-called people of the caves. Written in 2016 and considered prophetic for its time, The 3% combines video art, cinematic aesthetics and live stage action, moving between realism and dystopian imagination, while approaching contemporary dead ends with humour and subtle irony. With a playful yet deeply human perspective, with hope and proposition, the play explores what freedom and consciousness mean in a world that seems to have stopped desiring them. The play is inspired by the financial crisis experienced by Greece and is written by Eurodram-awarded playwright Vily Sotiropoulou and produced by Greek theatre company Boufoni Theatre Group. Performed in Greek with English surtitles.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 21 Jun: 3pm) Celebrate Make Music Day with a free concert by Edinburgh's Sangstream Choir! Sangstream are a community choir led by acclaimed Scottish traditional musician Corrina Dawn (Hewat). For almost 30 years they've been entertaining audiences with an enchanting variety of Scots folk songs, both contemporary and traditional, some well known and others less so, mostly in three-part harmony.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 26 Jun: 7:30pm) Dreams pursued, wishes granted or nightmares uncovered, how far would you go to make your dreams come true? Angus Òg, Lord of Summer, bringer of dreams, is at the height of his powers in this Midsummer season. Stories, songs, riddles, spells in the realm of the 'what if' to enchant the long summer evening. Another fun and friendly session of Edinburgh’s monthly storytelling club held upstairs in the Waverley Bar, with the usual open-floor section for anyone to share a story, song or poem around the theme or otherwise. Harriet Grindley is the co-host of the popular storytelling ceilidh series organised by the Burgh Blatherers at the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Her stories connect with place, history, myth and community with tales traditional and new. She particularly enjoys using Gaelic, songs, clarsach or concertina, found objects and image to create an immersive and inclusive environment. Supported by the Scottish Storytelling Forum and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
The Waverley Bar
(Sat 27 Jun: 11am) Join North-East folk singer Ellie Beaton for an engaging exploration of traditional Aberdeenshire ballads from the Greig–Duncan Folk Song Collection. Through these rich resources, participants will delve into the art of folk song collecting, while exploring the distinctive ornamentation and style of the region. ~~~~~ Ellie Beaton is a captivating award-winning folk singer hailing from Rothienorman in the North-East of Scotland. With a commanding voice that ripples with warmth and confidence, Ellie effortlessly embodies the timeless spirit of Aberdeenshire’s vibrant singing style whilst blending inspirations from across the globe. Born and raised in Rothienorman, in the heart of Aberdeenshire, she has carved a name for herself as one of the most promising voices in Scotland’s folk scene, being described as “one of the most outstanding voices in Scotland’s folk scene” by the Herald. In February 2025, Ellie was crowned BBC Radio Scotland’s Young Traditional Musician of the Year, four years after becoming the youngest ever winner of the MG ALBA Scots Singer of the Year.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Thu 2 Jul: 7pm) Don’t miss the next fantastic show from Scotland’s premiere spoken word night! For over ten years, Loud Poets has been showcasing the best spoken word poetry from Scotland and beyond. Expect fist-thumping, heart-wrenching, side-tickling poetry performances with live musical accompaniment. Please note, this showcase begins at 7pm, rather than 7:30pm as with previous Loud Poets showcases. This will be the consistent start time for Loud Poets events at the SSC moving forward. “Loud Poets is tearing up the landscape, bringing the ancient art to contemporary audiences – spreading mirth, giggles and talent along the way.” - Corr Blimey “Go listen to Loud Poets and hear them say the things you’ve been trying to say yourself.” - Shane Koyczan “There’s a humour, poignancy and most of all confidence which serves to inspire.” - Scotsman Loud Poets is supported through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 31 Jul: 7:30pm) Another fun and friendly session of Edinburgh’s monthly storytelling club held upstairs in the Waverley Bar, with the usual open-floor section for anyone to share a story, song or poem around the theme or otherwise. Supported by the Scottish Storytelling Forum and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
The Waverley Bar
(Wed 9 Sep: 7pm) What still lives in the wild places beyond our ordered lives? Monsters, magic and tricksters, or our fortune and our freedom? Join the Burgh Blatherers for a series of regular open-floor storytelling nights taking place throughout the year, a cosy gathering in the relaxed surroundings of the Storytelling Court with refreshments available from the Haggis Box Café. Hosted by Bob Mitchell and members of Edinburgh's own storytelling club who will transport you with their own stories and imaginative weavings while offering you the chance to tell your own tales!
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 25 Sep: 7:30pm) Another fun and friendly session of Edinburgh’s monthly storytelling club held upstairs in the Waverley Bar, with the usual open-floor section for anyone to share a story, song or poem around the theme or otherwise. Supported by the Scottish Storytelling Forum and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
The Waverley Bar
(Sat 26 Sep: 7:30pm) The moon begins to form as the moon spinners wash their wool in the sea, winding it again into a white ball in the sky and re-creating the phases and cycles that guide our seasons, and our stories... Join us for our quarterly series of full-moon celebrations, with live storytelling, music, song and a rotating programme of incredible performers. Following the Celtic Wheel of the Year (the quarterly seasons of Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh and Samhuinn) we look forward to moon myths, lunar legends and cross-cultural stories, revealing themes of creation, fertility, cosmic joy, transformation, death and rebirth. ~~~~~ Moonspinners events will follow two distinct phases, with the first half of performance in the Netherbow Theatre, followed by a social and conversational flow upstairs in the Storytelling Court with a chance to digest and discuss the stories amongst friends old and new. Mark it in your diary, or just follow the moon to guide you here! ~~~~~ Image credit: Hester Aspland
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Multiple Spaces
(Fri 16 Oct: 7pm) Don’t miss the next fantastic show from Scotland’s premiere spoken word night! For over ten years, Loud Poets has been showcasing the best spoken word poetry from Scotland and beyond. Expect fist-thumping, heart-wrenching, side-tickling poetry performances with live musical accompaniment. Please note, this showcase begins at 7pm, rather than 7:30pm as with previous Loud Poets showcases. This will be the consistent start time for Loud Poets events at the SSC moving forward. “Loud Poets is tearing up the landscape, bringing the ancient art to contemporary audiences – spreading mirth, giggles and talent along the way.” - Corr Blimey “Go listen to Loud Poets and hear them say the things you’ve been trying to say yourself.” - Shane Koyczan “There’s a humour, poignancy and most of all confidence which serves to inspire.” - Scotsman Loud Poets is supported through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Tue 24 Nov: 7:30pm) The moon begins to form as the moon spinners wash their wool in the sea, winding it again into a white ball in the sky and re-creating the phases and cycles that guide our seasons, and our stories... Join us for our quarterly series of full-moon celebrations, with live storytelling, music, song and a rotating programme of incredible performers. Following the Celtic Wheel of the Year (the quarterly seasons of Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh and Samhuinn) we look forward to moon myths, lunar legends and cross-cultural stories, revealing themes of creation, fertility, cosmic joy, transformation, death and rebirth. ~~~~~ Moonspinners events will follow two distinct phases, with the first half of performance in the Netherbow Theatre, followed by a social and conversational flow upstairs in the Storytelling Court with a chance to digest and discuss the stories amongst friends old and new. Mark it in your diary, or just follow the moon to guide you here! ~~~~~ Image credit: Hester Aspland
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Multiple Spaces
Another fun and friendly session of Edinburgh’s monthly storytelling club held upstairs in the Waverley Bar, with the usual open-floor section for anyone to share a story, song or poem around the theme or otherwise. Supported by the Scottish Storytelling Forum and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
The Waverley Bar
(Wed 9 Dec: 7pm) Nights are growing long and dark. Cold nips the air. It’s time to braid our evergreen circle - time to join the Burgh Blatherers for their Winter Warmer. Members of Edinburgh's own storytelling club present a heartfelt season finale to their year of storytelling ceilidhs and fan the embers of the year into flame of warming cheer and conviviality. Sit back and enjoy!
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Online On-Demand) Another Story is our podcast series exploring some of the themes featured in recent festivals. Tune in to hear some wonderful storytellers share their favourite tales and chat about storytelling in Scotland and beyond. So join us for Another Story... Available wherever you get your podcasts, including Spotify, Apple, Google and Amazon. Follow us by liking and subscribing so you don’t miss an episode! Listen Here
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Online SISF
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