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(Wed 6 Dec: 7:30pm) 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! Eight local tellers have explored the story-lands to bring you some winter tales; stories lively as a crackling fire or soft and peaceful as downy snow, all sprinkled with song and riddle. As always, the most important ingredient is the audience, so book your tickets early for a heart-warming evening.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Thu 7 Dec: 7:30pm) Welcome to Queer Folks’ Tales, our hugely popular bi-monthly storytelling series where queer storytellers from a diverse range of backgrounds, ages and cultures 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 across the year is as varied as the range of storytellers we invite. Household names feature alongside new and diverse queer storytellers from the different communities of Scotland. Many of the stories told in the Queer Folks' Tales evenings will be true stories of LGBTQ+ experience in Scotland today. Hosted by Edinburgh’s Turan Ali, joined in December by award-winning poet-comedian RJ Hunter, talented writer-performer Emma Lynne Harley and acclaimed singer-songwriter Josie Duncan. ~~~~~ Turan Ali has been producing, directing and writing BBC Radio dramas and comedies for over 20 years. He has also been telling stories of queer lives and experiences on stage since 2012, and more recently as a stand up. His shows have toured internationally and he has two sell out monthly storytelling shows in Vienna. He is the host and producer of Queer Folks’ Tales. Emma Lynne Harley is a queer, working-class, multidisciplinary theatre maker, director, writer and performer who makes vibrant cross-genre work. They are a Lyceum L20 alum, and co-director of award-winning Siren Theatre Company with shows including TXT ME: Cyber Showcase and Online Protest, Walking on Eggshells. They perform regularly as a cabaret artist around Scotland. RJ Hunter (they/she) is an Edinburgh-based spoken-word artist and comedian who is the Loud Poets Grand Slam Champion 2023. Known for fast-paced performances and work that balances the political with the joyfully stupid, Hunter's first collection 'Flustercuck' was released in June 2023. Josie Duncan is a talented and captivating singer-songwriter who won the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award (2017), Her songs have been showcased at Celtic Colours (Canada), National Celtic Festival Australia, Tönder (Denmark) and festivals closer to home Hebridean Celtic Festival Opening Concert & Sidmouth Festival, plus Scottish folk music community Bogha-frois: Queer Voices in Folk.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 8 Dec - Sun 14 Jan) Reyhaneh Mozaffar's paintings show her reflective journey through life. Through her work she dives into her soul, digs into her emotions, and uncovers her thoughts. At the same time, she uses art as a universal language that goes beyond origin, race and language, allowing all humans to connect with one another through their spirits. She not only establishes connections with herself, but also with nature and all people across the globe through her paintings. Untitled and lacking descriptions, the artworks themselves narrate stories, enabling the viewer to interpret, reflect, connect, and discover their own soulful visions of life.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 8 Dec: 7:30pm) Don’t miss the next fantastic show from Scotland’s best spoken word night! From laugh-out-loud funny, through the wonderfully surreal, to the thoughtful and emotional – Loud Poets continue to prove that Spoken Word has something for everyone. ~~~~~ Ria Bronte has performed at festivals around Europe, co-winning Glasgow's slam heat, taking part in the BBC showcase at London's Roundhouse and she has published her work in various local magazines. Ria speaks candidly on topics such as self determinism, obsession, strength, sexuality and eroticism, the self under capitalism, religion, family, spirituality, and the reunion of soul, mind and body. She testifies to both the suffering and brilliance of the human experience, and her performances are a permission slip to be raw and unashamed about all and any of it. "Like Kali, she has a mouth endowed with the power to dismember the defences of a whole room" Leyla Josephine is a poet, film and theatre maker from Glasgow. Leyla’s first short film Groom was Scottish BAFTA and Critics Circle Award Nominated. It won First Prize for Direction at Academy affiliated Flickers Fest, Best Cinematography at Interlink Berlin, Best Short Film at World of Film Festival, and Best Short Film HB Festival. It was screened at BFI London Film Festival and Edinburgh International Film Festival. Leyla was mentored by award winning Lynne Ramsay during the process. She was named as one of Screen International Rising Stars 2022. She is currently developing two features, one with Screen Scotland and one with Young Films with mentorship from Olivia Hetreed with commissioner Film4. Her solo show Daddy Drag was the winner of 2019 Autopsy Award celebrating artists making ground-breaking work in Scotland, her show Hopeless was shortlisted for Saboteur’s Best Spoken Word show 2017. Her poetry book In Public/In Private was released last year with Burning Eye Books. Her play Ms Campbell’s Class 4th Period was published with Bloomsbury press in 2023 and performed globally as part of Wonderfools Positive Stories for Negative Times. William Letford published his first collection of poetry while working as a roofer. Since then, his work has been adapted into film, projected onto buildings, carved into monuments, adapted for the stage, cast out over the radio, and performed by orchestras. He has helped restore a medieval village in the mountains of Northern Italy, taught English in Japan, and been invited to perform in Iraq, South Korea, Lebanon, Australia, Germany, India, Poland, and many more countries. Deanna Rodger is a poet and facilitator. She featured on The Art That Made Us (BBC1) and her reimagined version of ‘If’ was read by Serena Williams for International Womens Day (BBC Sport). Her poetry has been welcomed all across the world including.; Mexico, Sudan, and Beirut, and commissions include; Adidas, FIFA, St Paul’s Cathedral, Nationwide, Young Vic, and BBC Sport. ~~~~~ '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.' (The Scotsman) The Loud Poets 2023 Live Season is funded by Creative Scotland and the National Lottery.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 9 & Sun 10 Dec: 11am & 2pm) If we go down to the woods today... no bears in sight, just cakes and sweet treats galore in Macastory’s Storytelling Panto. Join Ron, Ferg and Claire as they take you on a great big Christmas cracker of an adventure. Stroll through the forest with Hansel and Gretel as they meet the mysterious Mr Crow, the Sandman and... someone claiming to be the Bake-off Champion?! And just what is she planning to cook for dinner? We need YOU to help them so sing along! Cheer the goody! Boo the baddy! And watch out… HE’S BEHIND YOU! Perfect Panto Patter, full of fun and laughs, especially devised for a young audience and their parents… it’s a BIG story for LITTLE people. PANTO IS BACK!OH YES IT IS!
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 10 Dec: 4pm) Come along and listen to novel writing students, on Janis Mackay's one year novel writing course, share an excerpt from their work in progress. All eleven writing students have been working on novels, and this informal gathering is an opportunity to hear authors read their work, and speak a little about their writing process. An ideal afternoon event for people who love novels, and who are interested in the process of writing one!
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Tue 12 Dec: 7pm) Edinburgh Writers' Forum are delighted to welcome the partnership Ambrose Parry as their guests for the December meeting. What a perfect way to end the year! Ambrose Parry is a pseudonym for a collaboration between married couple Chris Brookmyre and Marisa Haetzman. Chris is the international bestselling and multi-award-winning author of over twenty novels including winners of both the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year and the McIlvanney Prize for Scottish Crime Novel of the Year. Dr Marisa Haetzman is a consultant anaesthetist of twenty years’ experience, whose research for her Masters in the History of Medicine uncovered the material upon which their novels are based. Their first three books The Way of All Flesh, The Art of Dying and A Corruption of Blood were all shortlisted for the McIlvanney Prize for Scottish Crime Book of the Year. The Way of All Flesh is also being developed for television by Glasgow-based production company Blazing Griffin, with Haetzman and Brookmyre attached as writers. During the first part of the session, Marisa Haetzman will discuss what inspired her to move from being a successful anaesthetist with no literary ambitions, to writing full time a few years later. Her collaboration with husband Chris Brookmyre under the name Ambrose Perry has created a new force in the world of historical crime. Chris Brookmyre is playing quizmaster for 2023; the winning team will claim book knowledge glory and an Ambrose Parry book for each team member.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 15 Dec: 6:30pm & Sat 16 Dec 8:30pm) Christmas 2063: the teenage crew of the Starship Abandoner have departed from their burning world for the last time – but never mind that! Time to set your phasers to fun as Christmas is just around the corner! Whilst searching for a new home in the stars, everyone’s very excited for turkey-flavoured gelatine substitutes and a Taylor Swift hologram handing out presents on the lido deck. But when communications are cut and main power goes down, it’s up to the crew of the lower decks to re-establish control of the ship, all whilst dodging the controlling antics of privileged and pampered passengers, some cheeky aliens with a fondness for the 90s and a mysterious rabbity foe. A Sci-Fi Christmas farce with a heart for home. Performed by Strange Town 11-14 group (Fridays). Written by Poppy Hope Smith and directed by Amy Wilson.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 15 Dec: 8pm) The World's Room is a home for traditional singing in Edinburgh, organised by the Traditional Music Forum and held in the Canons' Gait Bar. All are welcome! December's guest is Janet Weatherston. Janet comes from a farming family, and started public singing with songs she learned from her mother, grandparents and extended family. Her singing is influenced by her long acquaintance with many of the well-known Travelling families of Scotland. Her mother's side of the family were from Angus, and her father's side were from the Borders, so her repertoire also contains a varied range of regional influences.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Canons' Gait
(Fri 15 Dec: 8:30pm & Sat 16 Dec 6:30pm) Alone, alone the darkness driftedAcross, across the solar nightShe mended and tended to all of her childrenNeglected and tarlike! As Christmas Eve dawns on a distant asteroid orbiting Jupiter, Reverie can’t wait to find the present she begged for under the tree. But when Mother Tar, the three-mouthed behemoth of oil and bone that runs the shelter, finds her opening presents early, she teleports all the presents away in a rage and cancels Christmas for everyone. Now it’s up to Reverie and her gang to retrieve their gifts and find Father Christmas at the dark side of the asteroid, dodging Reindroids, black holes and even the dreaded Quasar Beast along the way. A gothic sci-fi quest of Christmassy proportions! Performed by the Strange Town 11-14 group (Wednesdays). Written by Daniel Orejon and directed by James Beagon.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 16 Dec: 3pm & Sun 17 Dec: 11:30am) Billi always takes things too far: making up stories, stealing people’s glasses and generally being an all-round pain. So, when Billi discovers a book about Chris-T-Mas – a holiday celebrated long ago – the group are understandably hesitant to trust them. To make matters worse, they can’t even check as the book has been lost near the den of Avalanche – the grouchiest and most monstrous polar bear left on the ice! But Billi isn’t afraid (though perhaps they should be!) They’re determined to find it and have the best Chris-T-Mas ever…even if they’re not really sure what that truly means. A light-hearted Christmas comedy-caper across the frozen wilderness. Performed by the Strange Town 8-10s group (Fridays). Written by RJ Hunter and directed by Catherine Ward-Stoddart.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Wed 20 - Sun 31 Dec) Edinburgh International Magic Festival is back this Christmas with a mind-blowing programme of shows, events and workshops to bring wonder and fun to the festive season. We can't wait to see you this winter for our 2023 edition helping us "share the magic". Programme Events at the Scottish Storytelling Centre Gary James: Wonderland Vincent Gambini: This is Not a Magic Show Elliot Bibby: The Best of Bibby Gary Dunn: Jokes & Tricks Richard Wiseman: The World's Greatest Card Tricks and Other Mysteries Cameron Gibson & Friends Tricky Ricky: Festive Funtime Future Magicians
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Wed 20 Dec: 7:30pm) Come and enjoy live storytelling in the relaxed setting of the Netherbow Theatre, where our amazing apprentice storytellers share stories inspired by the winter solstice, where the shortest day marks the symbolic death and rebirth of the Sun. Hosted by Janis Mackay and featuring storytellers Jenna Baer, Caroline Carmichael, Rachel Clarke, Sandra Codd-MacDonald, Selina Graham, David Hughes, Neel Paul and Morven Sutherland Pelly.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 12 Jan: 8pm) The World's Room is a home for traditional singing in Edinburgh, organised by the Traditional Music Forum and held in the Canons' Gait Bar. All are welcome! ~~~~~ January's guest is Jane Cassidy. Jane is a singer, broadcaster, writer and producer who has toured extensively in Europe bringing her own blend of traditional Ulster music and self-penned songs to folk audiences. Two highlights were playing support to Joe Cocker before 8,000 people at the Fête du Peuple Breton in Brittany and touring 28 cities across Great Britain with the Geordie band Lindisfarne. Together with her husband Maurice Leyden she has written and performed numerous shows combining traditional folk-songs, history and literature, many of which have been broadcast on BBC Radio Ulster.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Canons' Gait
(Sat 20 Jan: 11am) Join renowned singer Sheena Wellington in this song workshop, where she will explore the many facets and faces of Robert Burns. Suitable for all abilities and experience. ~~~~~ Singer, activist and Dundonian, Sheena Wellington is the only person to have sung at both the opening of the Scottish Parliament and the opening of the Eassie, Nevay and Kirkinch Community Hall.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Sat 27 Jan: 7:30pm) Mairi's adventures with Scotland's most famous song. Delivered with her trademark wit and unparalleled musical ability, this funny and heartfelt show resonates with universal truths. As we learn about the song and its history, we journey with Mairi as she negotiates the politics of childhood friendships; the challenges of romantic relationships and the highs and lows of success and failure. Blending storytelling, animation and movement with music composed by David Gray and Mairi Campbell this five-star show brings Scotland's most famous song to life. Co-devised and directed by Kath Burlinson. ★★★★★ '…voice is like no other…an incredible storyteller…' (Edinburgh Guide) ★★★★★ 'Campbell’s irresistible love-letter to the song and her life is melodic and tribal… rocks with the ages past & present, salves with cathartic balm.' (Edinburgh Reporter) ★★★★ 'beautiful mix of song, fiddle, intricate animation…' (The Wee Review) Watch the Trailer here
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Online On-Demand) Another Story is a new podcast series exploring some of the themes featured in this year’s Festival. Tune in to hear some wonderful storytellers share their favourite tales and chat about storytelling in Scotland and beyond. So settle down, or speed on up, to 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
Explore Edinburgh as a city by the sea by enjoying this specially created story film. Follow the coastline from Fisherrow, on the boundary with East Lothian, to South Queensferry. A trail of harbours and wildlife havens that glimmers with stories from folklore, history and ecology. Devised by the SISF with storytellers Beverley Casebow, Douglas Mackay, Janis Mackay, Linda Perttula, Nicola Wright and Donald Smith, with music by Kenneth Linklater and the Bowling Ceilidh Band. Produced in support of the Forth Rivers Trust and Restoration Forth, Blue City: A Storytelling Journey along Edinburgh's Coastline is free to access. This film will be available on YouTube from Fri 14 Oct. View the film ~~~~~~~~~~ Over the past two years we have enjoyed being part of a fantastic online storytelling community across the world. We would love to further connect with you in our digital storytelling and development sessions, so whether you are based in Scotland, or further afield, let’s keep that fire lit on our global platforms. ~~~~~~~~~~ In Scotland’s Year of Stories, the Scottish International Storytelling Festival: Keep It Lit invites everyone to the ceilidh; locally, nationally and globally. At the core of Scotland’s culture and identity is the hospitable hearth - a place of solidarity and welcome for friend and stranger alike. Round that symbolic fire, experiences and memories are shared and hope affirmed.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Online SISF
Enjoy several multimedia storytelling performances filmed live in the Scottish Storytelling Centre's Netherbow Theatre in October 2022, where a world of local Scottish stories unfolds through the live voices of traditional storytellers and site-specific film footage of the landscapes they emerge from. Featuring stories from Dumfries and Galloway, the North East, Orkney, the Outer Hebrides and Perth and Kinross. ~~~~~~~~~~ These live performances were part of Tales, Tongues and Trails, a celebration of regional and international language, landscape and identities for the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2022. Map of Stories YouTube playlist of all five Film Ceilidhs Scottish International Storytelling Festival Live filming by Sandy McGhie (Channel 7A). ~~~~~~~~~~ Map of Stories is a collaboration between Transgressive North, Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland and Rectangle Design, supported by Creative Scotland and EventScotland as part of Scotland's Year of Stories 2022.
Scottish Storytelling Centre Online
Online
Enjoy several multimedia storytelling performances filmed live in the Scottish Storytelling Centre's Netherbow Theatre in October 2022, where a world of local Scottish stories unfolds through the live voices of traditional storytellers and site-specific film footage of the landscapes they emerge from. Featuring stories from Dumfries and Galloway, the North East, Orkney, the Outer Hebrides and Perth and Kinross. ~~~~~~~~~~ These live performances were part of Tales, Tongues and Trails, a celebration of regional and international language, landscape and identities for the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2022. Map of Stories YouTube playlist of all five Film Ceilidhs Scottish International Storytelling Festival Live filming by Sandy McGhie (Channel 7A). ~~~~~~~~~~ Map of Stories is a collaboration between Transgressive North, Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland and Rectangle Design, supported by Creative Scotland and EventScotland as part of Scotland's Year of Stories 2022.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Online SISF
(Wed 6 Dec: 7:30pm) 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! Eight local tellers have explored the story-lands to bring you some winter tales; stories lively as a crackling fire or soft and peaceful as downy snow, all sprinkled with song and riddle. As always, the most important ingredient is the audience, so book your tickets early for a heart-warming evening.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Thu 7 Dec: 7:30pm) Welcome to Queer Folks’ Tales, our hugely popular bi-monthly storytelling series where queer storytellers from a diverse range of backgrounds, ages and cultures 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 across the year is as varied as the range of storytellers we invite. Household names feature alongside new and diverse queer storytellers from the different communities of Scotland. Many of the stories told in the Queer Folks' Tales evenings will be true stories of LGBTQ+ experience in Scotland today. Hosted by Edinburgh’s Turan Ali, joined in December by award-winning poet-comedian RJ Hunter, talented writer-performer Emma Lynne Harley and acclaimed singer-songwriter Josie Duncan. ~~~~~ Turan Ali has been producing, directing and writing BBC Radio dramas and comedies for over 20 years. He has also been telling stories of queer lives and experiences on stage since 2012, and more recently as a stand up. His shows have toured internationally and he has two sell out monthly storytelling shows in Vienna. He is the host and producer of Queer Folks’ Tales. Emma Lynne Harley is a queer, working-class, multidisciplinary theatre maker, director, writer and performer who makes vibrant cross-genre work. They are a Lyceum L20 alum, and co-director of award-winning Siren Theatre Company with shows including TXT ME: Cyber Showcase and Online Protest, Walking on Eggshells. They perform regularly as a cabaret artist around Scotland. RJ Hunter (they/she) is an Edinburgh-based spoken-word artist and comedian who is the Loud Poets Grand Slam Champion 2023. Known for fast-paced performances and work that balances the political with the joyfully stupid, Hunter's first collection 'Flustercuck' was released in June 2023. Josie Duncan is a talented and captivating singer-songwriter who won the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award (2017), Her songs have been showcased at Celtic Colours (Canada), National Celtic Festival Australia, Tönder (Denmark) and festivals closer to home Hebridean Celtic Festival Opening Concert & Sidmouth Festival, plus Scottish folk music community Bogha-frois: Queer Voices in Folk.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 8 Dec - Sun 14 Jan) Reyhaneh Mozaffar's paintings show her reflective journey through life. Through her work she dives into her soul, digs into her emotions, and uncovers her thoughts. At the same time, she uses art as a universal language that goes beyond origin, race and language, allowing all humans to connect with one another through their spirits. She not only establishes connections with herself, but also with nature and all people across the globe through her paintings. Untitled and lacking descriptions, the artworks themselves narrate stories, enabling the viewer to interpret, reflect, connect, and discover their own soulful visions of life.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 8 Dec: 7:30pm) Don’t miss the next fantastic show from Scotland’s best spoken word night! From laugh-out-loud funny, through the wonderfully surreal, to the thoughtful and emotional – Loud Poets continue to prove that Spoken Word has something for everyone. ~~~~~ Ria Bronte has performed at festivals around Europe, co-winning Glasgow's slam heat, taking part in the BBC showcase at London's Roundhouse and she has published her work in various local magazines. Ria speaks candidly on topics such as self determinism, obsession, strength, sexuality and eroticism, the self under capitalism, religion, family, spirituality, and the reunion of soul, mind and body. She testifies to both the suffering and brilliance of the human experience, and her performances are a permission slip to be raw and unashamed about all and any of it. "Like Kali, she has a mouth endowed with the power to dismember the defences of a whole room" Leyla Josephine is a poet, film and theatre maker from Glasgow. Leyla’s first short film Groom was Scottish BAFTA and Critics Circle Award Nominated. It won First Prize for Direction at Academy affiliated Flickers Fest, Best Cinematography at Interlink Berlin, Best Short Film at World of Film Festival, and Best Short Film HB Festival. It was screened at BFI London Film Festival and Edinburgh International Film Festival. Leyla was mentored by award winning Lynne Ramsay during the process. She was named as one of Screen International Rising Stars 2022. She is currently developing two features, one with Screen Scotland and one with Young Films with mentorship from Olivia Hetreed with commissioner Film4. Her solo show Daddy Drag was the winner of 2019 Autopsy Award celebrating artists making ground-breaking work in Scotland, her show Hopeless was shortlisted for Saboteur’s Best Spoken Word show 2017. Her poetry book In Public/In Private was released last year with Burning Eye Books. Her play Ms Campbell’s Class 4th Period was published with Bloomsbury press in 2023 and performed globally as part of Wonderfools Positive Stories for Negative Times. William Letford published his first collection of poetry while working as a roofer. Since then, his work has been adapted into film, projected onto buildings, carved into monuments, adapted for the stage, cast out over the radio, and performed by orchestras. He has helped restore a medieval village in the mountains of Northern Italy, taught English in Japan, and been invited to perform in Iraq, South Korea, Lebanon, Australia, Germany, India, Poland, and many more countries. Deanna Rodger is a poet and facilitator. She featured on The Art That Made Us (BBC1) and her reimagined version of ‘If’ was read by Serena Williams for International Womens Day (BBC Sport). Her poetry has been welcomed all across the world including.; Mexico, Sudan, and Beirut, and commissions include; Adidas, FIFA, St Paul’s Cathedral, Nationwide, Young Vic, and BBC Sport. ~~~~~ '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.' (The Scotsman) The Loud Poets 2023 Live Season is funded by Creative Scotland and the National Lottery.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 9 & Sun 10 Dec: 11am & 2pm) If we go down to the woods today... no bears in sight, just cakes and sweet treats galore in Macastory’s Storytelling Panto. Join Ron, Ferg and Claire as they take you on a great big Christmas cracker of an adventure. Stroll through the forest with Hansel and Gretel as they meet the mysterious Mr Crow, the Sandman and... someone claiming to be the Bake-off Champion?! And just what is she planning to cook for dinner? We need YOU to help them so sing along! Cheer the goody! Boo the baddy! And watch out… HE’S BEHIND YOU! Perfect Panto Patter, full of fun and laughs, especially devised for a young audience and their parents… it’s a BIG story for LITTLE people. PANTO IS BACK!OH YES IT IS!
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 10 Dec: 4pm) Come along and listen to novel writing students, on Janis Mackay's one year novel writing course, share an excerpt from their work in progress. All eleven writing students have been working on novels, and this informal gathering is an opportunity to hear authors read their work, and speak a little about their writing process. An ideal afternoon event for people who love novels, and who are interested in the process of writing one!
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Tue 12 Dec: 7pm) Edinburgh Writers' Forum are delighted to welcome the partnership Ambrose Parry as their guests for the December meeting. What a perfect way to end the year! Ambrose Parry is a pseudonym for a collaboration between married couple Chris Brookmyre and Marisa Haetzman. Chris is the international bestselling and multi-award-winning author of over twenty novels including winners of both the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year and the McIlvanney Prize for Scottish Crime Novel of the Year. Dr Marisa Haetzman is a consultant anaesthetist of twenty years’ experience, whose research for her Masters in the History of Medicine uncovered the material upon which their novels are based. Their first three books The Way of All Flesh, The Art of Dying and A Corruption of Blood were all shortlisted for the McIlvanney Prize for Scottish Crime Book of the Year. The Way of All Flesh is also being developed for television by Glasgow-based production company Blazing Griffin, with Haetzman and Brookmyre attached as writers. During the first part of the session, Marisa Haetzman will discuss what inspired her to move from being a successful anaesthetist with no literary ambitions, to writing full time a few years later. Her collaboration with husband Chris Brookmyre under the name Ambrose Perry has created a new force in the world of historical crime. Chris Brookmyre is playing quizmaster for 2023; the winning team will claim book knowledge glory and an Ambrose Parry book for each team member.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 15 Dec: 6:30pm & Sat 16 Dec 8:30pm) Christmas 2063: the teenage crew of the Starship Abandoner have departed from their burning world for the last time – but never mind that! Time to set your phasers to fun as Christmas is just around the corner! Whilst searching for a new home in the stars, everyone’s very excited for turkey-flavoured gelatine substitutes and a Taylor Swift hologram handing out presents on the lido deck. But when communications are cut and main power goes down, it’s up to the crew of the lower decks to re-establish control of the ship, all whilst dodging the controlling antics of privileged and pampered passengers, some cheeky aliens with a fondness for the 90s and a mysterious rabbity foe. A Sci-Fi Christmas farce with a heart for home. Performed by Strange Town 11-14 group (Fridays). Written by Poppy Hope Smith and directed by Amy Wilson.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 15 Dec: 8pm) The World's Room is a home for traditional singing in Edinburgh, organised by the Traditional Music Forum and held in the Canons' Gait Bar. All are welcome! December's guest is Janet Weatherston. Janet comes from a farming family, and started public singing with songs she learned from her mother, grandparents and extended family. Her singing is influenced by her long acquaintance with many of the well-known Travelling families of Scotland. Her mother's side of the family were from Angus, and her father's side were from the Borders, so her repertoire also contains a varied range of regional influences.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Canons' Gait
(Fri 15 Dec: 8:30pm & Sat 16 Dec 6:30pm) Alone, alone the darkness driftedAcross, across the solar nightShe mended and tended to all of her childrenNeglected and tarlike! As Christmas Eve dawns on a distant asteroid orbiting Jupiter, Reverie can’t wait to find the present she begged for under the tree. But when Mother Tar, the three-mouthed behemoth of oil and bone that runs the shelter, finds her opening presents early, she teleports all the presents away in a rage and cancels Christmas for everyone. Now it’s up to Reverie and her gang to retrieve their gifts and find Father Christmas at the dark side of the asteroid, dodging Reindroids, black holes and even the dreaded Quasar Beast along the way. A gothic sci-fi quest of Christmassy proportions! Performed by the Strange Town 11-14 group (Wednesdays). Written by Daniel Orejon and directed by James Beagon.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 16 Dec: 3pm & Sun 17 Dec: 11:30am) Billi always takes things too far: making up stories, stealing people’s glasses and generally being an all-round pain. So, when Billi discovers a book about Chris-T-Mas – a holiday celebrated long ago – the group are understandably hesitant to trust them. To make matters worse, they can’t even check as the book has been lost near the den of Avalanche – the grouchiest and most monstrous polar bear left on the ice! But Billi isn’t afraid (though perhaps they should be!) They’re determined to find it and have the best Chris-T-Mas ever…even if they’re not really sure what that truly means. A light-hearted Christmas comedy-caper across the frozen wilderness. Performed by the Strange Town 8-10s group (Fridays). Written by RJ Hunter and directed by Catherine Ward-Stoddart.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Wed 20 - Sun 31 Dec) Edinburgh International Magic Festival is back this Christmas with a mind-blowing programme of shows, events and workshops to bring wonder and fun to the festive season. We can't wait to see you this winter for our 2023 edition helping us "share the magic". Programme Events at the Scottish Storytelling Centre Gary James: Wonderland Vincent Gambini: This is Not a Magic Show Elliot Bibby: The Best of Bibby Gary Dunn: Jokes & Tricks Richard Wiseman: The World's Greatest Card Tricks and Other Mysteries Cameron Gibson & Friends Tricky Ricky: Festive Funtime Future Magicians
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Wed 20 Dec: 7:30pm) Come and enjoy live storytelling in the relaxed setting of the Netherbow Theatre, where our amazing apprentice storytellers share stories inspired by the winter solstice, where the shortest day marks the symbolic death and rebirth of the Sun. Hosted by Janis Mackay and featuring storytellers Jenna Baer, Caroline Carmichael, Rachel Clarke, Sandra Codd-MacDonald, Selina Graham, David Hughes, Neel Paul and Morven Sutherland Pelly.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 12 Jan: 8pm) The World's Room is a home for traditional singing in Edinburgh, organised by the Traditional Music Forum and held in the Canons' Gait Bar. All are welcome! ~~~~~ January's guest is Jane Cassidy. Jane is a singer, broadcaster, writer and producer who has toured extensively in Europe bringing her own blend of traditional Ulster music and self-penned songs to folk audiences. Two highlights were playing support to Joe Cocker before 8,000 people at the Fête du Peuple Breton in Brittany and touring 28 cities across Great Britain with the Geordie band Lindisfarne. Together with her husband Maurice Leyden she has written and performed numerous shows combining traditional folk-songs, history and literature, many of which have been broadcast on BBC Radio Ulster.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Canons' Gait
(Sat 20 Jan: 11am) Join renowned singer Sheena Wellington in this song workshop, where she will explore the many facets and faces of Robert Burns. Suitable for all abilities and experience. ~~~~~ Singer, activist and Dundonian, Sheena Wellington is the only person to have sung at both the opening of the Scottish Parliament and the opening of the Eassie, Nevay and Kirkinch Community Hall.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Sat 27 Jan: 7:30pm) Mairi's adventures with Scotland's most famous song. Delivered with her trademark wit and unparalleled musical ability, this funny and heartfelt show resonates with universal truths. As we learn about the song and its history, we journey with Mairi as she negotiates the politics of childhood friendships; the challenges of romantic relationships and the highs and lows of success and failure. Blending storytelling, animation and movement with music composed by David Gray and Mairi Campbell this five-star show brings Scotland's most famous song to life. Co-devised and directed by Kath Burlinson. ★★★★★ '…voice is like no other…an incredible storyteller…' (Edinburgh Guide) ★★★★★ 'Campbell’s irresistible love-letter to the song and her life is melodic and tribal… rocks with the ages past & present, salves with cathartic balm.' (Edinburgh Reporter) ★★★★ 'beautiful mix of song, fiddle, intricate animation…' (The Wee Review) Watch the Trailer here
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Online On-Demand) Another Story is a new podcast series exploring some of the themes featured in this year’s Festival. Tune in to hear some wonderful storytellers share their favourite tales and chat about storytelling in Scotland and beyond. So settle down, or speed on up, to 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
Explore Edinburgh as a city by the sea by enjoying this specially created story film. Follow the coastline from Fisherrow, on the boundary with East Lothian, to South Queensferry. A trail of harbours and wildlife havens that glimmers with stories from folklore, history and ecology. Devised by the SISF with storytellers Beverley Casebow, Douglas Mackay, Janis Mackay, Linda Perttula, Nicola Wright and Donald Smith, with music by Kenneth Linklater and the Bowling Ceilidh Band. Produced in support of the Forth Rivers Trust and Restoration Forth, Blue City: A Storytelling Journey along Edinburgh's Coastline is free to access. This film will be available on YouTube from Fri 14 Oct. View the film ~~~~~~~~~~ Over the past two years we have enjoyed being part of a fantastic online storytelling community across the world. We would love to further connect with you in our digital storytelling and development sessions, so whether you are based in Scotland, or further afield, let’s keep that fire lit on our global platforms. ~~~~~~~~~~ In Scotland’s Year of Stories, the Scottish International Storytelling Festival: Keep It Lit invites everyone to the ceilidh; locally, nationally and globally. At the core of Scotland’s culture and identity is the hospitable hearth - a place of solidarity and welcome for friend and stranger alike. Round that symbolic fire, experiences and memories are shared and hope affirmed.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Online SISF
Enjoy several multimedia storytelling performances filmed live in the Scottish Storytelling Centre's Netherbow Theatre in October 2022, where a world of local Scottish stories unfolds through the live voices of traditional storytellers and site-specific film footage of the landscapes they emerge from. Featuring stories from Dumfries and Galloway, the North East, Orkney, the Outer Hebrides and Perth and Kinross. ~~~~~~~~~~ These live performances were part of Tales, Tongues and Trails, a celebration of regional and international language, landscape and identities for the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2022. Map of Stories YouTube playlist of all five Film Ceilidhs Scottish International Storytelling Festival Live filming by Sandy McGhie (Channel 7A). ~~~~~~~~~~ Map of Stories is a collaboration between Transgressive North, Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland and Rectangle Design, supported by Creative Scotland and EventScotland as part of Scotland's Year of Stories 2022.
Scottish Storytelling Centre Online
Online
Enjoy several multimedia storytelling performances filmed live in the Scottish Storytelling Centre's Netherbow Theatre in October 2022, where a world of local Scottish stories unfolds through the live voices of traditional storytellers and site-specific film footage of the landscapes they emerge from. Featuring stories from Dumfries and Galloway, the North East, Orkney, the Outer Hebrides and Perth and Kinross. ~~~~~~~~~~ These live performances were part of Tales, Tongues and Trails, a celebration of regional and international language, landscape and identities for the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 2022. Map of Stories YouTube playlist of all five Film Ceilidhs Scottish International Storytelling Festival Live filming by Sandy McGhie (Channel 7A). ~~~~~~~~~~ Map of Stories is a collaboration between Transgressive North, Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland and Rectangle Design, supported by Creative Scotland and EventScotland as part of Scotland's Year of Stories 2022.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Online SISF
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