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A fantastic programme of literary and cross-arts events, brought to you by University of Aberdeen. Find out what's on today!
Together with a dedicated group of students and young people, the WORD Centre for Creative Writing has devised an exciting line-up of poets, novelists, artists and other creatives for readings, performances, workshops and discussion panels.
Clowning Workshop with Jessica Hernandez
11am, 27/9 | King's Studio
Clowning is a state of playfulness that brings us to experience child-like, naive and vulnerable ways of being. This workshop aims to provide a safe, inclusive and accessible environment for all to explore the side of us that takes fun very seriously.
Art, Expression and Identity Across Cultures: Leila Aboulela, Amira Al Shanti, and Dean Atta
1pm, 27/9 | King's Pavilion
How does an identity formed of multiple cultures inform the art you create? This panel with writer Leila Aboulela, actor, playwright and artist Amira Al Shanti, and poet Dean Atta, will discuss identity, expression and acceptance across cultures.
Striking Impressions | Exhibition Talk
2.15pm, 27/9 | Sir Duncan Rice Library Exhibition Space
Join a bite-sized (15 minute) tour of the exhibition ‘Striking Impressions’. Meet at the Gallery, opposite the Welcome Desk. Student-guides will be waiting to welcome you. No booking required.
Toulmin Prize for Writing in North East Scots | Sheena Blackhall
3pm, 27/9 | King's Pavilion
In honour of Aberdeenshire writer David Toulmin (John Reid, 1913–1998), the Toulmin Prize writing competition is held annually by the Elphinstone Institute and sponsored by the Reid family. Join us for this appreciation of North-East writing with this year’s prize-winning story read aloud by North-East Makar, Sheena Blackhall.
Gardenstown with Martin Malone and Bryan Angus
4pm, 27/9 | King's Pavilion
Join poet Martin Malone and artist Bryan Angus for a discussion of their joint publication, Gardenstown, which offers a vivid evocation of changing seasons in the Northeast’s much-loved village “Gamrie” from spring to winter. Here they watch the year pass as, like the tide, the seasons come and go.
Len Pennie and Shane Strachan
6pm, 27/9 | Cowdray Hall
TikTok Scots sensation Len Pennie’s fiercely feminist Poyums became an instant bestseller on its release, praised for its unflinching look at mental illness and domestic abuse. 2023 Scots Champion and winner of the 2024 Loud Poets Slam North Heat, Doric performer Shane Strachan’s DWAMS looks anew at the Northeast through a fast-moving carousel of voices.
Sunset Song: Morna Young & Danielle Jam
7.30pm, 27/9 | Cowdray Hall
Aberdonian actor Danielle Jam and Morayshire playwright Morna Young, fresh from their recent production of Sunset Song, discuss writing and performing in Doric, staging the North East, and the future for the performing arts in Aberdeen, reflecting on their experiences bringing this beloved text to new audiences.