A host of celebrated performance artists are Moray-bound in September when Scotland’s youngest and most ambitious Arts Festival gets under way.
Plans for the Findhorn Bay Arts Festival were launched this week at Brodie Castle where it was revealed that Eddie Reader, Shooglenifty, Charlie McKerron and Nevile Gabie would be amongst the celebrated line-up.
Guests at the launch were treated to a preview of what can be expected with exhibits from Michael and Maria Start from House of Automata and a superb performance from Capercaillie’s Charlie McKerron.
The festival will run over five-days bring local artists from around Moray and the north of Scotland who will entertain through a vibrant and dynamic programme. This will include premier performances, exhibitions, outdoor theatre and live music.
Fine-art and photography will also be included alongside talks, tours, tastings and a host of free activities that aims to ensure the festival is accessible to everyone.
The centre of Forres will once again be alive with buskers, drummers and performers of every variety on an open ‘Culture Day’.
This year the festival is part of the national Homecoming Scotland celebrations, with support being provided by Creative Scotland, for whom David Taylor said: “Creative Scotland is delighted to respond to the energy and vision of the Findhorn Bay Festival, by offering support as part of the Homecoming celebrations.
“The festival is not only important in itself, and for what it offers to visitors and local audiences, but it also has potential as an ongoing focus for the artistic community in the area.”
Festival Director, Kresanna Aigner, added: “The Festival will bring home many renowned artists whose lives and careers have been touched by Moray.
“It’s an eminent homecoming that includes one of Scotland’s most unique musical exports, Shooglenifty, renowned fidldlers Charlie McKerron, Douglas Lawrence and James Alexander; plus award-winning fine-artist and illustrator, Owen Normand.
“It’s a Festival with people and place at its heart, drawing inspiration from and celebrating the many traditions that still shape the lives of our coastal communities.”
The Findhorn Bay Arts Festival takes place between September 24 and 28 – further detail can be found online at http://www.findhornbayarts.com/.