Book of poetry by mither tongue writers launched as Doric festival programme is revealed
Young generation helps keep traditional culture alive
Published:
A new generation is keeping the north-east’s traditional culture alive, with youngsters from throughout the area yesterday joining in the launch of a new book of Doric poetry.
The 47 poems have been written by Mither Tongue writers – from teenage pupils to pensioners – across the country.
Yesterday, Fyvie Castle provided the backdrop to the celebration of Doric heritage.
Pupils from Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray recited some of the poems to guests Schools Minister Maureen Watt.
Other celebrities aboard the area’s Reading Bus for the launch of the book Fit Like, Yer Majesty? included Doric broadcaster and writer Robbie Shepherd, storyteller and poet Sheena Blackhall, River City star Joyce Falconer, Scotland the What? legend Steve Robertson and top fiddler Paul Anderson.
The Doric poetry book is priced at £6.99 and available from Waterstones and Tesco and online from www.read ingbus.co.uk
The culture and heritage of the north-east will also be taking to the road later this month. The 15th Doric Festival will stage productions and traditional music performances, singing contests and storytelling sessions, in towns and villages throughout the area from September 26 to October 12 .
Mintlaw Library is marking the annual event with a Focus on Farming exhibition, while a Focus on Fishing display will be staged at Whitehills Library.
History will also be brought to life at the start of next month, with Alford Heritage Centre team organising a vintage ploughing competition and farm day on October 5. Entries should be submitted as soon as possible to Bob Henderson on 019755 62906.
Helping flag up the festival will be Maud Railway Museum, which will open on September 20 and 21 from noon-4pm.
Westhill Scout headquarters will be the venue for regular ceilidh dancing classes from 8-9pm over the four weeks until October 5, culminating in a dance in the town’s Ashdale Hall on October 11.
Inverurie Town Hall will be the setting for the launch of a new festival singing competition on September 27.
Details are available from festival director Sandy Stronach on 01771 653320.
Yesterday, Mr Stronach said: “There will be something of interest for everyone, young and old alike.”
Full details of the programme are available at www.doricfestival.com
