visit east ayrshire events by East Ayrshire

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The Dick

Burns House Museum

The Baird

The Guide East Ayrshireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cultural + Countryside Guide

September - December 2012

FREE COPY

Next issue available January 2013

Arts, Entertainment, Museums and Events Guide

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East Ayrshire elcome to the winter season Guide for Cultural & Countryside Services.

Cultural + Countryside Trail East Ayrshire plays host to five museums, a contemporary art gallery, a theatre,a country park and over 700km of path networks to explore. Although many of our buildings themselves are historically important, it’s what’s going on inside them that’ll make you want to visit time and time again. We have a changing exhibition, event and performance programme within all our spaces and free year round special events taking place. With the exception of the Palace, most of what we do is free although even the Palace has heavily subsidised ticket prices, to make sure you and your family can enjoy endless trips to our exciting venues

Our highly popular exhibition series ‘Ayrshire’s Reel History’ moves its focus to Doon Valley and surrounding areas. The Dick galleries will feature ‘Sea Fever’, the title is taken from the poem by John Masefield, and the exhibition explores the sea and its continued influence on traditional and contemporary artists. Dean Castle & Country Park has a varied calendar of events leading up to the busy grotto at Christmas and The Palace Theatre has a packed programme leading up to panto, which this year is Snow White. As ever we have a stimulating education package available to schools and groups.

Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10am-5pm and show nights

FREE

9 Green Street, Kilmarnock KA1 3BN

Tel: 01563 554900 Palace Access Information Wheelchair access is available to the theatre, Café Bar and Box Office. Lift access to all floors is available next to the main entrance at Green Street. An induction loop to assist hard-ofhearing and an infra red system is also available. Disabled Parking Spaces must be booked in advance due to limited availability. Please advise the Box Office of any assistance to need when making a booking

3 l Highlights

Museum and Galleries Opening Hours:

Castle Museum Opening Hours:

Tuesday-Saturday, 11am-5pm Closed Sundays, Mondays & Public Holidays. Closed Sat 22 September.

From w/b 1 October Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm

Libraries Opening Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9am-8pm; Wednesday, 10am - 5pm; Saturday, 9am - 5pm

From w/b 22 October Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm

The Dick, Elmbank Avenue, Kilmarnock KA1 3BU Museums/Galleries: 01563 554902 Library: 01563 554300

General Enquiries: 01563 554902 School and Group bookings Line:

The Dick is a fully accessible venue with limited allocated parking to the rear

Visitor Centre Opening Hours:

Dean Castle Museum and Country Park, Dean Road, Kilmarnock KA3 1XB

01563 554734 Access is limited to areas of the castle

4 l The Palace 12 l Country Park

FREE

15 l Dean Castle 16 l Doon Valley 18 l The Dick 20 l The Baird 21 l Burns House 22 l Education

Opening Hours:

Tuesday- Saturday: 10am-4pm Closed Public Holidays. Closed Sat 22 Sept

Thursday-Saturday 11am-5pm Closed Public Holidays. Closed Sat 22 Sept

Thursday - Saturday 10am-4pm Closed Public Holidays. Closed Sat 22 Sept

Burns House Castle Street, Mauchline KA5 5BZ Tel: 01563 554902

Baird Institute, 3 Lugar Street, Cumnock KA18 1AD Tel: 01563 554902

Doon Valley Museum Dalmellington KA6 7QY Tel: 01563 554902

Access is limited to areas of the museum

The Baird is a fully accessible venue

Doon Valley is a fully accessible venue

To reserve tickets for any of our events, performances or workshops telephone 01563 554900 On-line tickets for The Palace can be purchased from

www.enjoyeastayrshire.com Please note we cannot accept personal cheques.

Party Booking Info Discounts are available for parties of ten or more. Contact Box Office on 01563 554900 for details. If you would like to find out more about any of the events and activities we have on offer or you would like to join our mailing list,

please telephone the Box Office on 01563 554900. The programme is correct at the time of going to press. However, we advise checking by telephone, before setting out on a journey as programme changes and opening hours can occasionally occur.

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Harvest Hoedown

Sea Fever

Christmas in East Ayrshire

Snow White

Celebrating Ayrshire’s Rural Life

As part of the TASTE AYRSHIRE festival, Dean Castle Country Park is hosting its first ever Harvest Festival. This festival will celebrate everything which is great and important about rural life in Ayrshire. You can: Try some of the finest food and drink the region has to offer, see how it’s prepared with cooking demonstrations and take some home to have a go yourself. Browse the stalls of traditional crafters, see some of the customs of old Ayrshire that still live on in our communities and perhaps buy yourself a keepsake. Watch some old and new countryside skills as local experts demonstrate sheep dog herding, chainsaw carving, willow weaving, dry stane dyking and much more. A Harvest festival wouldn’t be complete without a traditional hoedown. Enjoy some traditional Scottish music with a bit of a twist. Can you make a scarecrow? What animal can you create from your favourite veggie? Like all traditional Harvest festivals there will be a series of competitions for you to take part in.

Main Gallery and North Museum Dick Institute Sat 8 Sept - Sat 22 Dec Tues – Sat, 11am – 5pm FREE ‘Sea Fever’ explores the sea and the varied influences it has had, and continues to have, on artists and the lives of those who work and live near the coast. In his play ‘Richard II’, Shakespeare has one of his characters describe our island as: ‘This precious stone set in the silver sea.’ It is hardly surprising that British writers and artists should have found inspiration in the sea which surrounds the British Isles. The poem,‘Sea Fever’, which was written by John Masefield, has given us the title for this exhibition. Masefield was poet laureate from 1930 until 1967. His early years were spent at sea. This exhibition offers visitors an opportunity to see paintings and objects from the Dick Institute’s collection which reflect this theme. To complement this we are delighted to be showing contemporary work by leading international artists Andy Goldsworthy, Will Maclean and Jem Southam.

Start your Christmas celebrations with a visit to the Christmas Festival at Dean Castle & Country Park. This truly magical event will celebrate the birth of Charles Dickens by hosting a version of A Christmas Carol especially developed for the magnificent Dean Castle. Explore the castle and bump into some of Dickens famous literary characters who will remind you of the true meaning of Christmas. Santa will also be on hand in his magical Victorian Grotto and there will be the opportunity to sample some mulled wine or hot chocolate and listen to traditional Christmas Carols. Mirror, mirror on the wall who is the fairest of them all? The Palace Theatre will once again wow visitors with its spectacular panto which this year is Snow White. There will be the usual fabulous songs, dances, sets and costumes plus loads of slapstick fun, in a panto not to be missed. Also look out for Pantomania Day and Pantomime workshops accompanying Snow White and Doon Valley’s annual Christmas Exhibition which features work by pupils of Doon Academy.

Highlights

Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th September 12 – 5pm & 6pm – 9pm

With spectacular sets and costumes, fabulous songs and dances and bags of slapstick fun Snow White is a pantomime not to be missed! Starring Liam Dolan as Jimmy the Jester and CBeebies Superstar Justin Fletcher as the Magic Mirror. Please note Justin will appear as a pre-recorded video in the magic mirror and will not appear in person.

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Kilmarnock he Palace Theatre offers a varied programme including comedy, music, drama, dance and more.

Tam O’ Shanter

Ha Ha Comedy Club

The Palace

Our Cafe Bar is the place to relax for drinks before heading to the show. Here you can pre order your drinks to beat the queue. Ayrshire’s premier arts and entertainment venue, The Palace has a convenient town centre location, friendly staff, excellent transport links and parking close by.

Friday 7 September Cafe Bar 8pm £8.50 (£7.50 for groups of 4+) May contain some adult content & swearing - Recommend 16yrs+

Scottish Comedian of the Year heat

Friday 31st August & Sat 1st September 7.30pm £12 / £10 conc Tam o Shanter is a wild night out. It incorporates other Burns’ material such as The Cottar’s Saturday Night, Halloween, and The Holy Fair. Included in the choric romp is the libretto of The Jolly Beggars - his hymn to liberty, and the nearest he ever got to writing a piece overtly for the theatre. We see Tam’s drunken and glorious night out, his ride through the storm and the scene of supernatural debauchery inside Kirk Alloway. It is set within the wider story of the Ayrshire community of Burns’ time, and it’s rhythm of work, life, ritual and death. With over twenty songs, live music, a strong visual style and a large cast of the best Scottish actors, dancers and musicians, this is an evening of outrageous hilarity, death-defying rhyming, anachronisms and short skirts. Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10am-5pm and show nights 9 Green Street, Kilmarnock KA1 3BN Tel: 01563 554900 Online booking: www.enjoyeastayrshire.com

Government Warning: This show may be nuts and contain laughter in excessive doses. A production full of punk swagger The Guardian

Education workshops are available. Please contact Michelle Laats, Performing Arts Development Officer on 01563 554358 or email michelle.laats@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The annual hunt for Scotland's funniest comedian returns to Kilmarnock. Alan Anderson introduces 6 comedians who will be showcasing their jokes. The top 3 (decided by audience vote) will go through to the semi-finals then the final at Glasgow's Old Fruitmarket. The winner gets £1000, an Edinburgh Fringe show produced by Ha Ha Comedy and the coveted Banana Boots Trophy.

Count Me In

Master of the House

Friday 14 September 7.30pm £8/£5 conc

Saturday 15 September 7.30pm £15/£14 conc

Gary can't get his head around politics.

Saturday 8 September 7.30pm £8/£5 conc Recommend 14yrs+

A kinetic coming-of-age story about desire, guilt and mind over matter. ‘Most people’s thoughts stay inside their head. Not mine. My thoughts travel. My thoughts do things. Don't believe me? Just watch.’Following an award-winning debut in 2010, ThickSkin returns with a magnetic new play by Davey Anderson. ‘a beautiful piece of multimedia, multiform theatre’★★★★(The List on Blackout). ‘Captivating, emotional and brilliant’★★★★★ (ThreeWeeks on Blackout).

We are all born into a political system that none of us signed up to. Do we have to like it or lump it, or can we do something about it? Does our vote really count? In our democracy, do the people really have the power? “McNair’s talent for turning hilarious gambits into instances of genuinely moving and profound insight ….is a joy to watch.”

The Herald Education workshops available for High School students or Youth Theatre groups

www.thickskintheatre.co.uk

Date and Time: Friday 14 September Age 15+ Cost: Free - to those who are booking to come and see this production)

Education workshops available for High School students or Youth Theatre groups

A post show discussion will be taking place after the performance.

Date and Time: By prior arrangement Age 14+

For further information or to make a booking please contact Michelle Laats on (01563) 554358.

Developed in association with The Core at Corby Cube with support from National Theatre of Scotland. Part of Made in Scotland 2012.

Free. Please note this workshop is only available to those who are booking 10+ tickets to come and see this production A post show discussion will be taking place after the performance. For further information or to make a booking please contact Michelle Laats on (01563) 554358.

A spectacular journey though the world of musical theatre. Two hours of your favourite songs performed by the cream of West End performers. Don’t miss this musical feast featuring former stars from Les Miserables, Evita, Phantom of the Opera, and other hit West End musicals, performing in concert. The show is constantly being updated with songs carefully selected from over eight decades of popular musical theatre, including favourites such as Last Night of the World (Miss Saigon), Climb Ev’ry Mountain (The Sound of Music), Defying Gravity (Wicked), Tell Me It’s Not True (Blood Brothers) and some wonderful show medleys culminating in their unique Les Miserables finale! From the opening chords of the overture the audience are whisked off on a whistle stop tour highlighting the very best from the world of musical theatre. www.mastersofthehouse.biz

Box Office: 01563 554900 | Online booking: www.enjoyeastayrshire.com

The Static

The Guide Sept-Dec 2012

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Kilmarnock

Ken Maybury – Roy Orbison & Friends

The Palace

Friday 21 September 7.30pm £18.50 If you love good music, then this is the show for you as Barry Steele presents his all live spectacular Multi Media Tribute to The Big O, featuring classic Orbison hits from the 60’s right through to the Late 80’s when Roy joined a band of men, who called themselves The Traveling Wilbury’s. Add to the mix the sounds of The Shadows, Ray Charles and Jerry Lee Lewis and our special star guests Peter Jackson as Johnny Cash, and Marc J Robinson as Buddy Holly you have yourself a spectacular fusion of good old “Rock n Roll” and contemporary musical genius all on one stage.

Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10am-5pm and show nights 9 Green Street, Kilmarnock KA1 3BN Tel: 01563 554900 Online booking: www.enjoyeastayrshire.com

Book yourself a ticket to ride this incredible musical Journey, “It’s not The Big O’ but you simply won’t believe it! ‘True Identikit Brilliance’ - THE STAGE

(Comedy Hypnotist)

Saturday 22 September 7.30pm £10/£8 Adults only

Ken Maybury has got to be Scotlands funniest hypnotist playing to packed houses all over Europe. He has chosen Kilmarnock as one of his charity shows giving away a large percentage of proceeds to local charities like Ellie and Laurie Fund,Alfie Sharpe,Ayr Hospice and Malcolm Sargent House.

The Drifters in Concert

Thursday 27 September The Grand Hall 7.30pm £25/£24 Following the highly successful gold album ‘Up On The Roof’ released on Sony Music in 2011, The Drifters are back on the road in the UK performing both the classic hits from the last six decades and their superb new material. There have been over 65 vocalists in the group’s incredible 59-year history and tonight, the current line up pay homage to the former members of this line up, including icons such as Clyde McPhatter, Rudy Lewis, Ben E King, & Johnny Moore. Hits include ‘ You’re ‘More Than A Number,’ ‘Come on Over to My Place’, ‘Up On The Roof,’ ‘Under the Boardwalk’, ‘Kissin In The Back Row’, ‘On Broadway,’ ‘Down On The Beach,’ ‘Hello Happiness’ ‘Save The Last Dance For Me’ and many more as well as popular new tracks such as ‘Do You Dream Of Me’, ‘The One’ and ‘The Whole World.’ www.theofficialdrifters.com

West Side Story

Tues 2 - Sat 6 October 7.30pm & 2.30pm Sat Mat All seats £13 Thurs, Fri & Sat £15 LMS are delighted to bring to the Palace Theatre stage “West Side Story” one of the greatest movie musicals ever made. Inspired by William Shakespeare’s play, WSS placed the “Romeo and Juliet” saga in the gangcontrolled streets of New York City. The Jets and the Sharks danced and rumbled their way into film history. West Side Story won ten Academy Awards with a book by Arthur Laurents, music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.

The Adventures of Butterfly Boy

Wednesday 10 October 10am £5 for school parties (1 in10 free) Audience 5+

Thursday 11 October 2.30pm & 7.30pm £12.50/£11.50 conc Another sensational show from the producers of 'Memory Lane', 'A Timeless Collection' and ‘All our Yesterdays’.

A young boy finds a tiny egg which soon comes to life as a greedy caterpillar. An explorer, adventurer and a dreamer, his obsession with the insect makes him an outsider and a target for those who do not understand him.The caterpillar becomes the most important thing in his life and he soon finds himself its brave protector.As the caterpillar begins its transformation into a butterfly our adventurer begins his own journey and soon realises that growing up can be a mighty battle. Education workshops for primary schools. Date and Time: Monday 8th October - (time by prior arrangement). Age Primary 1 and 2. Cost: £50 Length of workshop: 1 hour and 30 minutes For further information or to make a booking please contact Michelle Laats on (01563) 554358.

A stunning roller coaster ride of nostalgia. Featuring tributes to some of the world’s greatest stars, including Glen Miller, Fred Astair, Buddy Holly, Cliff Richard, Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, Dolly Parton and The Beatles. Also including a taste of the some of the greatest movies and musical numbers of all time. All beautifully choreographed along with stunning costumes. Performed by four world-class singers and featuring the brilliant ‘Memory Lane’ dancers. Don’t miss one of the biggest nostalgia shows in the UK.

Ha Ha Comedy Club

Friday 12 October Cafe Bar 8pm £8.50 (£7.50 groups 4+) May contain some adult content & swearing - Recommend 16yrs+

Gary Little - 'Born Raconteur' The Scotsman **** 'Gary Little is a very big man who is not afraid to tackle difficult subjects. Rib tickling if not quite touching'. Daily Record The big bad boy of Scottish Comedy. Regular sell out shows at Edinburgh Fringe and Glasgow Comedy Festival - as well as regular overnight appearances in HMP Barlinnie. Pearse O'Hallaron - 3rd place Scottish Comedian of the Year 2011 Compere Alan Anderson

Vampires Rock

Saturday 13 October 7.30pm £22 Groups 1 in 10 free Hailed by some of Rock’s royalty Vampires Rock is a show like no other. With a twist of rock and a hint of comedy, and jam packed with the greatest anthems you know and love, you’re guaranteed to be on your feet! Steve Steinman plays the supremely evil Baron Von Rockula owner of the Live and Let Die club. In search of a new bride the Baron must convince the unsuspecting Pandora who auditions for the new singing position, to cross over to the dark side and live for ever in Rock N Roll Hell. A full cast of superb singers, dancers and formidable band, blast their way through some of the greatest ever rock anthems including; We Will Rock You, Bat Out of Hell, Highway to Hell, Since You’ve Been Gone ,Sweet Child Of Mine, Total Eclipse of the Heart, Devil Gate Drive, I Love Rock n Roll, Poison and many more! All teamed with an amazing stage set and pyrotechnics to blow your mind, this rock spectacular is not to be missed!

Box Office: 01563 554900 | Online booking: www.enjoyeastayrshire.com

Rolling Back The Years

The Guide Sept-Dec 2012

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Kilmarnock

Oliver

The Palace Consider yourself at home in Kilmarnock’s Palace Theatre as East Ayrshire Youth Theatre presents their musical production of Oliver!

9 Green Street, Kilmarnock KA1 3BN Tel: 01563 554900 Online booking: www.enjoyeastayrshire.com

A Night with Dean Park

Friday 19 October 7.30pm £13.50, £12 conc Thursday 18 October 2pm & 7.30pm £7.00 (conc available)

Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10am-5pm and show nights

The Music of Mamma Mia!

Oliver Twist is a young boy who lives in a workhouse with other orphaned boys. When Oliver disrupts a meal by asking for more, he is sold to a local undertaker and his family. They treat Oliver horribly and make him sleep under the coffins. Oliver escapes and runs off to Paddington Green, where he quickly befriends another young boy, the Artful Dodger. Join us as Oliver journeys through a series of extraordinary musical adventures (and troubles)!

Monday 22 October 2.30pm £9.50/£8.50 conc Family of 4: £32

Mamma Mia! is a worldwide success, and the global phenomenon lives on with “The Music of Mamma Mia!” - a feel good, bring the whole family, mega-musical extravaganza featuring all the songs from the hit movie in one show. Featuring Adele Rankin from Channel 4 TV’s ‘Musicality’, this fabulous new production is currently astonishing UK audiences with impressive vocal performances, outstanding choreography and spectacular costumes.You can dance, you can jive, come have the time of your life with an international cast of singers and musicians who will have you up on your feet, dancing in the aisles and begging for more. Featuring the hit songs of ABBA this high energy show is a guaranteed night of infectious theatrical entertainment.

There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed A fly

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly. I don’t know why she swallowed a fly...But The People’s Theatre Company do!

Saturday 20 October 7.30pm £15 Enjoy and evening with Scotland’s top entertainer Dean Park singing favourites from both his new album “Hell to Heaven” and his “Live In Concert” album. Not only Scotland top comedian Dean is also a fabulous singer, so as well as the jokes you may expect music from the era of the Big Bands to The Commitments, Motown and Sinatra. Book now for a fabulous evening that is sure to sell-out.

And now you can too as they bring one of the world’s best loved nursery rhymes to life for the very first time. Presented by the team behind How The Koala Learnt To Hug, this magical new show has been written especially for parents to enjoy with their children, so come and relive the delights of this most charming of tales with a feast of first class games, colourful animal characters and heart warming family fun. It’s the perfect treat for anyone aged 4 to 104! “Perfect interactive fare for a young crowd while having enough to keep grown-ups entertained. A charming and entertaining way to spend a weekend morning.” Nottingham Post

Wednesday 24 October 7:30 pm £17.50 Thundering rhythms on huge taiko drums interweave with layers of percussive soundscapes and delicate bamboo flute in a spellbinding display of precise choreography & sheer athleticism. Through years of rigorous touring as Europe’s leading taiko drum group, Mugenkyo have developed a gritty passionate style that is uniquely their own, retaining the traditional spirit of taiko yet creating a contemporary sound and a modern stage show that has captivated audiences everywhere… "  Just when you think it could not get any more powerful, it doubles in intensity. This show is not one to be missed." Edinburgh Evening News www.taiko.co.uk Education workshops available for schools groups or other users groups.Date and Time: Wednesday 24th October-(time by prior arrangement). Age: various Cost: £300 for two hour workshop or £150 for 1 hour workshop For further information or to make a booking please contact Michelle Laats on (01563) 554358.

Ha Ha Comedy Club

Friday 2 November 8pm £8.50 (£7.50 groups 4+) May contain some adult content & swearing - Recommend 16yrs+

Tony Simpson - Freewheeling Scouse cheeky git. "Tony Simpson got to grips with the crowd... one of the best prospects we have seen in a long time " Liverpool Echo Sam Harland - "His timing and emphasis is note perfect" Chortle.co.uk "Sam is an exciting talent with a big personality - a Merseyside equivalent of Peter Kay" Buzz Comedy Compere Alan Anderson

Singin’ I’m Not a Billy...He’s A Tim

Saturday 3 November 7.30pm £15 On the day of a crunch Old Firm clash, a fan of each team winds up sharing a jail cell from which their only hope of escape is cash raised by bets on the match to pay their fines. While taking turns to watch the action on a TV visible through their cell door, the pair bicker their way through every entrenched cliché of “Scotland’s shame” from religion to politics and national identity. But aided by their kindly turnkey Harry -whose worries for his sick grandson help put their petty quarrels into perspectivethey’re forced to reach a grudging understanding. Des Dillon’s brilliant satire of 90minutebigotry in Scotland and its inextricable connection with the nation’s two biggest football teams first scored critical acclaim at the Fringe in 2005, and has since been a near-constant fixture in theatres in Scotland.

The Monster in the Hall

Wednesday 7 November 7.30pm £8.50/£5 conc A low budget indie comedy musical about a girl on the verge of a nervous breakdown played out by four actors and a big fat motorbike which goes vrrooommm. Duck Macatarsney cares for her biker dad whose MS is getting increasingly bad. Her Dad - Duke is a spliff smoking (for medicinal reasons you understand), bike riding, heavy metal and horror movie loving widower who's brought up Duck since the death of her Mother in a crash. The two of them are just about surviving when one morning the Duke wakes up blind and the Duck hears that the Social Services are coming to take her away. The Monster in the Hall follows Duck as she tries to protect her world from the terrifying prospect of change. Winner of ‘Best Ensemble’ at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

There will be a matinee performance of Yellow Moon at Grange Academy.

Box Office: 01563 554900 | Online booking: www.enjoyeastayrshire.com

Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers

The Guide Sept-Dec 2012

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Kilmarnock

Annual Variety Show

50/50 Concert

Swan Lake

Counselled Out & Special Guests

The Palace

Saturday 10 November Grand Hall 7.30pm £18/£17 conc KAOS and Gordon Cree present their eleventh annual 50/50 Concert.

Wed 7 – Fri 9 November 7.30pm £8.50/£5conc

The producers are planning something special in keeping with the tradition of providing a feast of musical entertainment.

Crossroads and District Young Farmers Club presents their annual variety concert from 7th-9th November 2012, comprising of talent singers, dance troupes and a lot of comedy! For more information or tickets please phone Sarah Jane Crichton on 07852 269396.'

Winter Concert

Saturday 10 November 7.45pm £21.50/£20conc £16 under 16years The most popular of all classical ballets. The world-renowned Moscow Ballet - La Classique demonstrate their continued quality of dance and performances in a dramatic production of this timeless favourite set to Tchaikovsky's superb score. The ballet is a favourite of ballerinas and audiences alike; all leading dancers want to dance Swan Lake during their careers and all audiences want to see them dance in this, the ultimate fairy tale ballet.

Saturday 29th December 7.30pm £10 Counselled Out returns to the Grand Hall by popular demand after a highly successful gig in December last year which formed part of its 21st anniversary celebrations. The band prides itself on the quality of its live performances of classic 60’s & 70’s Soul, Motown and Disco and a few contemporary songs from the likes of Amy Winehouse, Paolo Nutini and Bruno Mars. However, its main priority is to entertain its audiences - and a party atmoshphere is the end result. The band has recently played a number of high profile gigs. “Few bands can really shake a crowd – Counselled Out comes pretty damn close!” Evening Times, Glasgow

Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10am-5pm and show nights 9 Green Street, Kilmarnock KA1 3BN Tel: 01563 554900 Online booking:

www.counselledout.com

Tuesday 4 December 7.30pm £7

www.enjoyeastayrshire.com

Dreghorn Musical Society present their winter concert for all to enjoy. Contact Adrianne Crawford on 01560 320359.

Saturday 24 November – Sunday 30 December From £9.50 Mirror mirror on the wall, who is the fairest of them all?” After the Magic Mirror declares Snow White to be the fairest in all the land, Prince Michael requests her hand in marriage. Sent into a jealous rage, the Wicked Queen commissions her henchman to take Snow White into the forest and to ensure she never returns. Will Dame Bree Brightshine and Jimmy the Jester uncover the treacherous plot? And what about the seven little people living in a cottage in the Enchanted Forest? With spectacular sets and costumes, fabulous songs and dances and bags of slapstick fun Snow White is a pantomime not to be missed! Starring Liam Dolan as Jimmy the Jester and CBeebies Superstar Justin Fletcher as the Magic Mirror.

Please note Justin will appear as a pre-recorded video in the magic mirror and will not appear in person. “(Liam Dolan) brilliantly succeeds in keeping core traditions alive and zesty for modern audiences”. The Glasgow Herald on our 2011 pantomime,

Cinderella. “…avalanche of slapstick and action.” The Stage on our 2011 pantomime,

Cinderella.

Pantomania Day and Workshops for Schools are available, see our Education pages, page 19.

Box Office: 01563 554900 | Online booking: www.enjoyeastayrshire.com

The Guide Sept-Dec 2012

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Kilmarnock

Country Park Castle and Museum Opening Hours: Oct - Mar: Wed-Sun, 10am-4pm Apr - Sept: Daily, 11am-5pm Visitor Centre Opening Hours: Oct - Mar: Wed-Sun, 10am-4pm Apr - Sept: Daily, 11am - 5pm School and Group Bookings Line: 01563 554734 General Enquiries: 01563 554902 Email: info@deancastle.com Web: www.deancastle.com www.theriverayrway.org

ean Castle Country Park is a fantastic free day out for all the family.The Country Park extends to 80 hectares of woodland, farm and formal gardens associated with the magnificent Dean Castle Estate. The Country Park is at the heart of Kilmarnock and is very accessible with excellent public transport links and walking and cycle routes. Once at the Country Park there is something for everyone to do. Explore the countryside on the edge of Kilmarnock along the scenic paths and trails. Visit our urban farm area and meet some of the resident animals including our most charismatic team of llamas and our majestic herd of fallow deer. Take part in some fun environmental education with the Countryside Ranger Service who will answer all of your natural history questions. From music festivals to pond dipping, Dean Castle and Country Park offers an extensive and varied events programme throughout the year. Pick up our events leaflet or visit www.deancastle.com for full details.

Harvest Hoedown

Christmas Festival

Celebrating Ayrshire’s Rural Life Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th September 12 – 5pm & 6pm – 9pm As part of the TASTE AYRSHIRE festival, Dean Castle Country Park is hosting its first ever Harvest Festival. This festival will celebrate everything which is great and important about rural life in Ayrshire. It will include: Try some of the finest food and drink the region has to offer, see how it’s prepared with cooking demonstrations and take some home to have a go yourself. Browse the stalls of traditional crafters, see some of the customs of old Ayrshire that still live on in our communities and perhaps buy yourself a keepsake. Watch some old and new countryside skills as local experts demonstrate sheep dog herding, chainsaw carving, willow weaving, dry stane dyking and much more. A Harvest festival wouldn’t be complete without a traditional hoedown. Enjoy some traditional Scottish music with a bit of a twist. Can you make a scarecrow? What animal can you create from your favourite veggie? Like all traditional Harvest festivals there will be a series of competitions for you to take part in.

Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd December For grotto only Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th December Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th December Grotto bookings open from 1 November This year’s Christmas Festival at Dean Castle Country Park will be a truly magical event. Celebrating the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Dickens, we will be hosting a version of a Christmas Carol developed especially for the magnificent Dean Castle. Exploring the rooms of the 14th Century Castle you will come across some of Dickens’ famous literary characters which remind you of the true meaning of Christmas. In keeping with this magical theme, Santa will be on hand as usual in his Victorian Grotto, where your children can have a chat, give their Christmas wishes and receive a small gift to keep them happy until the special day. There will also be an opportunity to buy some unique Christmas gifts, sample some mulled wine or hot chocolate and listen to some traditional Christmas Carols. With so much going on, Dean Castle Country Park’s Christmas Festival is the perfect event to get you in the mood for Christmas.

Dean Castle Conservation Volunteers Dean Castle Country Visitor Centre Sunday 23rd September – Rhodie Bashing Sunday 21st October – Bird and Bat Boxes Sunday 25th November – Tree Planting 11am – 4pm Free Dean Castle Conservation Volunteers is a group who meet once a month to help with management or development works at Dean Castle Country Park. The group was established in February 2012 and so far has dug out ponds, built bird hides and boardwalks and constructed a puzzling wildflower maze. This group provides an opportunity to help improve the environment and meet new friends. All ages and abilities are welcome and in return for your hard work, we throw in some lunch! The session in September is called ‘rhodie bashing’. The natural woodland of the Country Park has been taken over by rhododendron ponticum. We need to get it under control to allow our woodlands to thrive. October is a perfect time to erect bird and bat boxes as it allows time for the new homes to become part of the forest before nesting season. Finally in November, we’ll plant some native trees in the gaps left by those rhodies we’ve bashed.

Dean Castle Country Visitor Centre Sunday 14th October – Hunt for Red October Tuesday 16th October – The Big sleep Wednesday 17th October – Den-City Thursday 18th October – Hedgie’s Hibernation Homes 2.30pm – 4.30pm £1.65 During the school holidays in October we have a series of events to encourage you to look closely at this remarkable time of year as well as to help the wildlife around you prepare for a cold winter. Saturday’s autumnal treasure hunt is a free event aimed at the whole family. The events on Tuesday and Wednesday are aimed at 5 – 8 year olds and Thursday’s event is aimed at over 8s.

Deadly Dean

Education

Location revealed at the time of booking Saturday 27th October 6.00pm – 7.00pm (family friendly event) 7.30pm – 9.00pm (adults and over 8s only) £1 for children, £3 for adults Kick start your Halloween festivities with a ghostwalk with a difference. This year the spirits of Dean Castle Country Park will be hosting a ZOMBIE walk. The ‘undead’ will lead you on a very spooky mystery tour. It’s so mysterious that you will not know where the walk starts until you book your place and receive your challenge instructions. All places must be booked and paid for before the 25th October. No places will be allocated after this date. So, do you think you’re brave enough?????

Family Hibernation Homes

Outdoor learning offers unique opportunities to extend the potential of our children and young people. We learn in context and through experience and place. Therefore, we need to offer different and challenging experiences to stimulate their learning and development. Learning beyond the classroom, in all its forms, can make a huge contribution to this. East Ayrshire Council has had a ranger service since 1981 which has offered an environmental education programme for schools throughout East Ayrshire. Over the last 5 years there has been a change of focus from traditional nature based walks to activities which assist the classroom teacher in delivering cross curricular objectives. The development of the Curriculum for Excellence has given Countryside Services the opportunity to develop the environmental education programme in partnership with Education and Social Services’ Quality Improvement team. This new programme will be curriculum and project driven. It will be children led and will encourage personal, social and community education allowing opportunities for early years, primary, secondary and tertiary education providers Online bookings will be available soon. For bookings in the meantime please email info@deancastle.com or telephone 01563 554734

Dean Castle Country Park Visitor Centre Sunday 4th November 2.30pm – 4.00pm Free Make your very own special hibernation home for our favourite spiky mammal.

For schools that are looking for an environmental education booking with the Countryside Ranger Service which is not linked to the Curriculum for Excellence please fill out our online enquiry form (coming soon) Visits from schools within East Ayrshire are free of charge. There is a £2.10 charge per head for schools outwith East Ayrshire. 2 adults per class are permitted free of charge. Request an Environmental Education Pack from Dean Castle Country Park on the number above or download the information at http://www.deancastle.com/park/enveduc.asp

Castle | School and Group Bookings Line: 01563 554902 | www.enjoyeastayrshire.com

October Holiday Programme

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Kilmarnock

River Ayr Way Runners’ Challenge

Wilderness Wanders

Countryside Development

Glenbuck Loch Saturday 15th September 9am £27 (non SAF members), £25 (SAF members) The RAW Challenge makes up the final event of the Scottish Ultra Marathon Series. The race to complete this challenge starts at Glenbuck Loch, outside Muirkirk at 9am and follows 41 miles of the River Ayr Way to Dam Park in Ayr. The route goes through some of the most spectacular countryside in South West Scotland with moorland and open hills, deep sandstone gorges and beautiful woodland corridors. Transport to the start of the race is provided from Ayr, Kilmarnock, Cumnock and Mauchline and this can be booked with your race application. The record for this race is just over 5 hours – do you think you can beat this?? If you would like to give it a try, you can submit an on-line application at www.theriverayrway.org or contact anneke.freel@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Annick Valley Outdoor Festival

Whitelee Windfarm Sunday 23rd September TBC, Free

Various Friday 31st August – Sunday 2nd September Free This Outdoor Festival builds on 2 successful years of the Kilmaurs Walking Festival and now includes a series of events in Stewarton, Dunlop and Lugton, covering the whole of the Annick Valley. The festival kicks off on the Friday night with a ceilidh in Kilmaurs Masonic Hall. Over the weekend, there will be a range of outdoor activities to take part in. This will include bat walks, history walks, bowling events, cycling events and much, much more. Contact 01563 554734 or log onto www.deancastle.com for the detailed festival programme.

Join us on a wilderness walk through Whitelee Windfarm. You can trek East to West or explore the new windfarm extension. The choice is yours! Contact Howie Pitman on 01563 554739 or at howard.pitman@east-ayrshire.gov.uk for more information.

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Kilmarnock

Take a free guided tour and see the Great Hall where the Lords of Kilmarnock dined and entertained, the Dungeon where wrongdoers would be locked away, the Minstrel’s Gallery, and the Solar where the Lords and Ladies had their private chambers. Our recreated Medieval Kitchen gives you a taste of the less glamorous side of life, and the Banqueting Hall and William Boyd’s chamber round off a truly special look at this unique building, spectacularly restored from ruins by the 8th Lord Howard de Walden. With regular events and exhibitions, from live music performances to medieval mayhem, Dean Castle is a great place for those who want to be entertained, and those who want to delve into history a bit more deeply. After your visit there is the rest of the Country Park to discover – woodland walks, Pet’s Corner, rare-breed animals, and even more activities - plus of course the Tea Room and shop.

Access to Dean Castle

Textile Team The Textile Team is a group of local volunteer textile specialists who work at Dean Castle between 11.00 and 3.30 on Wednesdays. Their skills include embroidery, spinning, weaving, dyeing, dressmaking, and upholstery. In addition to the restoration of a set of 18th century Italian curtains, high quality replica costume, conservation storage bags and hangers for East Ayrshire Council’s Ayrshire Needlework baby robe collection are being produced by the group.

The Courtyard, Great Hall and Cellar have free, open access and you are welcome to explore these spaces at your leisure. If you would like to see the rest of the Castle displays you can join a free guided tour. These last approximately 40 minutes and can be booked on a first-come first-served basis from the Great Hall. Maximum of 15 people per tour. The times of the tours are displayed in the Great Hall but exact timings may be affected by school group visits during term-time. Please note that the spiral staircases and narrow doorways may result in limited access to some visitors. The tour covers the history of the Castle and gives a fascinating account of its previous custodians and collections, including: The Great Hall Centrepiece of the displays and heart of the Castle. Are you brave enough to look inside the dungeon? We’ve also added a whole load of new armour and dressing-up clothes for all the family to try on! The Minstrel’s Gallery Where travelling entertainers played to the Lords and Ladies below. The Solar You’ll find our rare and important collection of early musical instruments on display in the Solar, the private chambers and chapel of the Lords and Ladies. The Medieval Kitchen Learn about the life of the people that worked in the kitchen and the food they prepared and ate. Banqueting Hall The beautiful wood-panelled Hall is also a changing exhibition space. and more...

The Textile Team is truly intergenerational with an age range of just over 20 to over 80! Art and Fashion Students have been involved, and visitors from around the world visit the Textile Team. Some spend a day at the castle, many are put to work!

Dean Castle

ean Castle,home and stronghold of the Boyd family for over 400 years – is open all year round to visitors. The Keep, dating to around 1350, and the Palace or Place, built about 100 years later, house spectacular displays of historic weaponry, armour, and early musical instruments, plus medieval tapestries and more.

The Textile Team are in attendance on Wednesdays throughout the year, and can be visited by request or on the public tour (time-permitting). Castle and Museum Opening Hours: Oct - Mar: Wed-Sun, 10am-4pm Apr - Sept: Daily, 11am-5pm Visitor Centre Opening Hours: Oct - Mar: Wed-Sun, 10am-4pm Apr - Sept: Daily, 11am - 5pm Dean Castle Museum & Country Park, Dean Road, Kilmarnock KA3 1XB School and Group Bookings Line: 01563 554734 General Enquiries: 01563 554902 www.enjoyeastayrshire.com

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Dalmellington

Doon Valley

et in the beautiful Ayrshire countryside, the town of Dalmellington is home to the Doon Valley Museum. Offering a regular mix of exhibitions and events for all ages, the bright and modern museum and gallery spaces are located in what was originally a row of weaver’s cottages dating from 1744. The museum features objects and stories from the industrial and social heritage of the area, including displays on the key industries of mining and of the Dalmellington Iron Company. Its legacy and impact on the social, economic and natural histories of the area are still widely felt. Key items on display include a unique stained glass window and a variety of mining memorabilia. A large collection of photographs, maps and other documents are available to family historians and other researchers with the Research Lab. A regular programme of contemporary and traditional art displays, and workshops and events for all ages can also be found here.

Opening Hours: Thursday - Saturday 10am-4pm

Reel History Event:

Ayrshire’s Reel History:

Down Memory Lane

Learning Programme at Doon Valley

Thursday 23 August – Saturday 19 January Tues – Sat, 10am – 4pm FREE Saturday 1st September 11am – 3.30pm FREE In conjunction with the Ayrshire’s Reel History exhibition, this event will bring Dalmellington and Doon Valley’s past to life. We invite you to come along and share your memories of the town and surrounding area. There will be reminiscence events, using objects from the collections to spur imagination, and old photographs to recall memories. Local historians will give talks about the history of the area, which will be scheduled throughout the day and are free to attend. Simply book onto a talk when you visit on the day. East Ayrshire Youth Theatre will be dressed as Victorian characters and will encourage visitors to have a go at the gird and cleek, peevers and marbles - games from a bygone era.

Closed Public Holidays Closed Sat 22 Sept

Doon Valley Museum Dalmellington KA6 7QY Tel: 01563 554902 Doon Valley is a fully accessible venue www.enjoyeastayrshire.com

Come along and enjoy a trip ‘Down Memory Lane’, with us at Doon Valley Museum, it’s FREE and promises to be a great day out for all the family.

In connection with Ayrshire’s Reel History at Doon Valley, four groups from East Ayrshire primary schools will be given the opportunity to explore this fascinating exhibition and the history of Dalmellington through the medium of photography. Working with leading photographer, Alicia Bruce, pupils will study the films and photographs to identify how the town and surrounding area has changed. The pupils will require digital cameras from school to use between them, and the workshop leader will work with them to capture the local scenery and architecture which is there today. To book a session for your school please contact Kate Davies (Visual Arts and Media Officer) on 01563 554340 or by email kate.davies@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Ayrshire’s Reel History:

Cumnock and Dalmellington

Doon Academy

Christmas Exhibition

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Thursday 29 November – Saturday 19 January Tues – Sat, 10am – 4pm FREE

Following on from the successful exhibition, Ayrshire’s Reel History, at the Dick Institute last autumn which included archive film from Kilmarnock and the surrounding area, this exhibition turns its focus to Cumnock and Dalmellington. Explore the history of both communities through a series of archive film clips chosen to highlight different events, people and industries throughout the twentieth century. The films clips will highlight social events in the region and ways of life which have changed dramatically in the last hundred years. Provided by the National Library of Scotland and Scottish Screen Archive, the digitised films include ‘Dalmellington Fancy Dress Parade’ (1927), ‘Cumnock Celebration’ (1951), ‘Ochiltree Tile Works (1951). The Scottish Screen Archive is Scotland's national moving images collection and preserves over 100 years of Scottish history on film and video. Viewing as a group or individually reminiscing through the medium of film is hugely rewarding for people of all ages and we welcome everyone to this special exhibition to recall old memories, share moments in time and encourage younger audiences to find out about past events in their local area.

Doon Academy's Annual Art and Design Exhibition 2012 is a showcase of senior Art and Design pupil work from the talented students of Doon Academy. The exhibition has a wide collection of work ranging from still life, portraiture, photography, fashion, jewellery and graphic design.

Tel: 01563 554902 / www.enjoyeastayrshire.com

Thursday 23 August – Saturday 19 January Tues – Sat, 10am – 4pm FREE

The annual exhibition of artwork produced by the pupils of Doon Academy in Dalmellington. The varied and accomplished work is the result of the school’s impressive art department.

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Kilmarnock

The Dick

pened in 1901, the Dick is one of the most important cultural venues in the south-west of Scotland, featuring the largest museum and galleries in Ayrshire, and East Ayrshire’s central library. Featuring a programme of often nationally-important exhibitions, permanent displays of the museum’s diverse collections, and innovative work by contemporary artists, makers and young people from the area, the Dick has a growing reputation for the quality and scope of its exhibitions and events. The South Museum and Loom Room feature stories of the local and social history of the area, and the newly redisplayed North Museum Wing contains objects from our Natural Sciences and Archaeology collections.

Museum and Galleries Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 11am-5pm;

Sea Fever Preview Night

Closed Sundays, Mondays and Public Holidays Closed Sat 22 September

Dick Institute, Elmbank Avenue, Kilmarnock KA1 3BU Museums/Galleries: 01563 554902 Library: 01563 554300 The Dick is a fully accessible venue with limited allocated parking to the rear. www.enjoyeastayrshire.com

Sea Fever

7th September 6 - 7.30pm A night with sea themed poetry and music – all welcome.

Image credits Main image -“After A Stormy Night Off Whitby” Thomas Rose Miles Top right - Andy Goldsworthy Bottom right - Jem Southam image from “Clouds Descending”.

Andy Goldsworthy is a world renowned artist who works at the heart of nature creating temporary sculptures and forms.

Main Gallery and North Museum Dick Institute Saturday 8 September – Saturday 22 December Tues – Sat, 11am – 5pm FREE ‘Sea Fever’ explores the sea and the varied influences it has had, and continues to have, on artists and the lives of those who work and live near the coast. In his play ‘Richard II’, Shakespeare has one of his characters describe our island as: ‘This precious stone set in the silver sea.’ It is hardly surprising that British writers and artists should have found inspiration in the sea which surrounds the British Isles. The sea has isolated us from the rest of the world while providing the highways which have taken us to every corner of the earth. The poem,‘Sea Fever’, which was written by John Masefield, has given us the title for this exhibition. Masefield was poet laureate from 1930 until 1967. His early years were spent at sea. British painters have also found stimulating subject matter in the sea and coastline. The sea in its ever changing aspects has been a subject in itself but has also provided artists with a dramatic setting for human activity. This exhibition offers visitors an opportunity to see paintings and objects from the Dick Institute’s collection which reflect this theme. To complement this we are delighted to be showing contemporary work by leading international artists Andy Goldsworthy, Will Maclean and Jem Southam.

This exhibition includes a short clip from the film, ‘Rivers and Tides’, which was made in 2001 and shows him working over the period of a year in various locations around the world. Will Maclean was a midshipman before attending Gray’s School of Art in Aberdeen in the early 1960s. He is internationally recognised as a pioneer of box construction art using found objects, based on the histories and mythologies of those who live and work by the sea. Jem Southam is one of the most respected British photographers of the last twenty-five years. ‘Clouds Descending’, his collection of photographs made following a two-year study observing and exploring the Cumbrian coastline, was commissioned by The Lowry in Manchester in 2006 and is shown here for the first time in Scotland. Brought together in the spacious galleries at the Dick Institute, this collection of imagery and art work offers a captivating exhibition for visitors of all ages.

Half Term Event:

Shadow Making with Bonnie Sea Bonnets!

Parent /Toddler Workshops – Over the Sea and Far Away!

The displays of fossils, minerals, animals and archaeology are set in the atmospheric surroundings of the North Museum Wing, and are well worth a visit.

Young People’s Gallery Saturday 15 September – Saturday 24 November FREE Artist Gemma Coyle has been working with a group of young people who have attended a camera club through the Women’s Aid Project in Kilmarnock. This exhibition celebrates the project and is the culmination of their achievements. We are pleased to show this fantastic work in the Young People’s Gallery. The Women’s Aid Project is funded by Kilmarnock Townscape Heritage Initiative/Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme and supported by East Ayrshire Council Creative Minds. “The photography course is a truly inspiring project which the Kilmarnock THI is delighted to be supporting. Through this project, the young photographers have had the opportunity to see Kilmarnock’s historic townscape in a different light and the images presented will be a lasting legacy of the journey of learning which the group have taken.”

Natural History and Archaeology

You will find favourites such as Brian the Lion and the whale’s jawbones, plus fascinating objects like our 400 million-year-old scorpion fossil. From late 2012 this gallery is going to be completely redisplayed, so look out for even more objects from 2013.

Main Gallery/North Museum Wednesday 17th October Times: Drop in between 11am – 4pm (duration approx 1 hour)

Age Range: From 10+ FREE Working with artist Kirsty Anderson, using the simple technique of shadow puppetry learn to make amazing tall ships and galleons out of card and felt into a hat, and have your silhouette picture taken too! This is a drop-in event at the gallery anytime between 11am – 4pm (last session begins at 3pm). Based in Edinburgh designer Kirsty Anderson's label ‘A Wooden Tree’ creates accessories and little pieces of artwork with a fantastical, yet old-time feel. As well as making Kirsty teaches various craft workshops for children and adults. No booking required.

Main Gallery/North Museum Thursday 8 and Thursday 22 November 10am – 11am (I hour) Age Range: 3 – 5 year olds FREE (maximum 30, 15 toddlers/ 15 adults) Ahoy there ship mates, parents and toddlers! You are invited to join us on a magical adventure as we explore the world beneath the sea and look for hidden creatures, mythical ‘merpeople’ and search for the hidden treasure. Now beware, the sea may be choppy and we may run into pirates along the way but rest assured our adventure to find the hidden treasure will be full of fun and excitement! For children aged between 3 and 5 years plus accompanying adult. Offered on first come first served basis. If you would like to book a place please contact the gallery on 01563 554343.

Local History What job did your grandparents do? How were prisoners dressed 200 years ago? How many copies of Robert Burns’ ‘Kilmarnock Edition’ of poetry were published, and how many survive today? Answers to all these questions and more can be found in the South Museum and Loom Room. Displays of local and social history, with a special focus on the textile industry, and plenty for children to do. From late 2012 we will also be showing lots more items from the recently-closed Johnnie Walker factory in Kilmarnock.

Museum|Gallery: 01563 554902 Library: 01563554300 | www.enjoyeastayrshire.com

Kilmarnock Heritage Women's Aid Camera Club

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Cumnock

The Baird Opening Hours: Thursday-Saturday 11am-5pm Closed Public Holidays Closed Sat 22 September

Baird Institute 3 Lugar Street Cumnock KA18 1AD Tel: 01563 554902 The Baird is a fully accessible venue www.enjoyeastayrshire.com

he Baird, Cumnock's 4-star museum and art gallery, features a mixture of temporary and permanent museum and art displays and the building attracts locals and visitors alike. Learn about the history of the religious freedom-fighters of the 1600's - the Covenanters, local industries such as mining, the highly-collectable Cumnock pottery, and the life and times of the founder of the modern Labour Party, James Keir Hardie. The Research Room also gives you the chance to look through the collections via the Future Museum website.

Scottish Photographic Circle

Cumnock Juniors Centenary Displays

Thursday 23 August – Saturday 19 January Tues – Sat, 11am – 5pm FREE The Scottish Photographic Circle was founded in 1907 at a meeting by a group of enthusiastic artists. This was to be an historic meeting at which it was agreed that a society be formed to promote Pictorial Photography in Scotland by means of lectures and discussions on art. In October 2007 the Circle celebrated its Centenary with a range of exhibitions showing members’ work. Current members are based in Scotland and many from the Ayrshire area. This exhibition at the Baird shows some of their recent work on the theme of ‘Landscape’ and includes some stunning images from Ayrshire and beyond by the 40+ members.

Corridor Gallery Thursday 20 September – Saturday 22 December To commemorate the centenary of Cumnock Juniors Football Club in 2012 a small exhibition charting the history of the club has been produced by East Ayrshire Cultural and Countryside Services in association with the Club itself. From its early days at New Station Park, its move to Townhead Park and its successes in the Scottish Junior Cup, Ayrshire Cup and others, the display features photographs and objects associated with this famous club.

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Mauchline

Featuring a recreation of the room they lodged in, and full of original objects and documents relating to Burns’ time here, his friends, family and contemporaries, the museum also brings the Burns story up to date. The collections on display are regularly changed, and a series of events in and around the museum each year ensure something for every taste. Mauchline is also famous for the manufacture of curling stones, and for the decorative souvenir boxware known as Mauchline Ware, both of which are featured in displays here.

Mauchline Ware The Mauchline Ware collections have recently been re-displayed with state-of-the-art cases, and specially-designed stands. Featuring early pieces, and examples of transfer-ware, photographic-ware, tartan-ware and fern-ware, the displays are of interest to serious collectors and visitors alike. There are plenty of background information to explain the history of these beautifully crafted gems. Mauchline Ware is the name given to small, decorative, wooden objects of all shapes sizes and types – from boxes to bookcovers to letter openers – which were produced in the area during the late 18th , and 19th centuries. They are highly collectable, and the museum boasts one of the country’s biggest collections, including many rare pieces.

Contemporary Art The centrepiece of the displays of art inspired by Burns is a full ‘Welcome Table’ created by the Glasgow-based designers Timorous Beasties. Originally commissioned for East Ayrshire Council’s ‘Creative Burns’ exhibition during Homecoming 2009, the table is crafted in stone, silver and glass, often sourced in Scotland. 14 well-known Scottish cultural figures such as Kirsty Wark, Hardeep Singh Kohli, Andrew O’Hagan and Edywn Collins were invited to comment on their favourite Burns work and its significance to them, and designs based on these poems and songs were created to decorate the plates.

Burns House

hether you are a first-time visitor to Mauchline or returning to this historic town, the Burns House Museum is definitely worth a look. Robert Burns farmed in Mauchline, and his wife Jean spent some time living in the building that is now the museum.

Displayed nearby are recently acquired works by Calum Colvin and Peter Bevan, plus longerstanding items from the collection by Allan Ramsay – all of which explore the image of Burns in a contemporary way.

Future Museum www.futuremuseum.co.uk Future Museum is our award winning website that is used by thousands of people every month. We now have over 16 thousand museum objects from the south west digitised and provides a quick and free access to all the many of the collections across Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway.

Opening Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10am-4pm Closed Public Holidays Closed Sat 22 September

Burns House Castle Street, Mauchline KA5 5BZ Tel: 01563 554902 www.enjoyeastayrshire.com

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UNSIGNED: UNLIMITED

EAST AYRSHIRE YOUTH THEATRE Oliver

Education Mondays beginning 3rd September onwards Palace Complex Arts Halls 1 + 2, 7.15pm - 9.15pm £45 per term (limited subsidised & free places available)

UNSIGNED:UNLIMITED is an exciting project funded by East Ayrshire Council and Creative Scotland Youth Music Initiative. Open to 14 - 21 year olds, the project looks at song writing, invention, composition, recording and live performance. Now twinned with the Pump Up The Jam project at the Tolbooth in Stirling, the groups have travelled to meet their partners and have taken part in specialist writing for TV and film workshops. Terms of ten weeks (which follow the school terms) take place. Each term costs £45 although there are limited FREE and discounted places available to families who receive income support or second siblings attendance. To book a place please contact the Palace Box office on 01563 554900.

Palace Theatre Thursday 18 October 2pm & 7.30pm £7.00 (conc available) Consider yourself at home in Kilmarnock’s Palace Theatre as East Ayrshire Youth Theatre presents their musical production of Oliver! Oliver Twist is a young boy who lives in a workhouse with other orphaned boys. When Oliver disrupts a meal by asking for more, he is sold to a local undertaker and his family. They treat Oliver horribly and make him sleep under the coffins. Oliver escapes and runs off to Paddington Green, where he quickly befriends another young boy, the Artful Dodger. Join us as Oliver journeys through a series of extraordinary musical adventures (and troubles)!

The ethos of EAYT is that of a professional theatre company which is driven by excellence and access where young people feel comfortable and learn through positive experiences. The participants are given the opportunity to develop skills and learn from experienced tutors where they work in a professional manner as young actors and theatre makers. EAYT aims to give the broadest range of high quality theatre experiences in a positive and supportive environment so that young people can develop their skills not only in theatre and

performance but also in terms of communication and creativity. Three terms of ten weeks (which follow school term times) take place annually. Each term will cost £30 for the Mini EAYT and £50 for the Junior and Senior EAYT. There are discounts for second child places and limited free places for families on income support. For further information on any of our groups or to enquire about joining, please contact the Performing Arts Development Officer, Michelle Laats on 01563 554358.

Timetable of classes GROUP

AGE

VENUE

DAY

TIME

Mini EAYT(new) 5-7 years

Kilmarnock Tuesday (Grand Hall)

4.00pm5.00pm

Junior/Senior 8-16 years EAYT

Cumnock Town Hall

4.30pm 6.30pm

Junior EAYT

8-11 years

Kilmarnock Wednesday (Grand Hall)

4.30pm6.30pm

Senior EAYT

12-16 years

Kilmarnock

7.00pm9.00pm

Monday

Wednesday

Primary School Workshops Sounds of the Sea

Secondary School Workshops Sea Fever Words

Snow White Pantomime Workshops for Schools or Groups

Monday 3rd December – Thursday 6th December Half day (2 workshops) £50 Full day (4 workshops) £100 Children aged 5 – 12 years 33 max per workshop Main Gallery/North Museum Tuesday 13, Wednesday 14 and Thursday 15 November 9.30am –2.30pm Age Range: P5 – P7, Max 33 FREE Free to East Ayrshire pupils drama and sound workshops. The class will create their own musical/sound pieces and create dramatic sea stories taking the ‘Sea Fever’ poem and exhibition as a stimulus. Pupils will be given a tour of the exhibition before the workshop and will swap over for sound and drama during the day. Pupils will need a packed lunch and a short break will also be provided in the morning. The workshops are allocated on a first come first served basis.

Main Gallery/North Museum Monday 19, Tuesday 20 and Wednesday 21 November 9.30am –12.30pm Age Range: S1 – S3, Max 25 FREE Secondary school students from within East Ayrshire are being given the opportunity to explore this exhibition with a leading poet. Students will work with writer, Kate Tough, diving to the depths of their imagination and experimenting with words to build their own poems. The workshops are suitable for English departments although students are welcome from across subject areas of the Curriculum for Excellence.

As an accompaniment to Imagine Theatre’s Snow White there will be opportunities for the schools and local groups to take part in pantomime activities within their school or venue. The workshops can either be pre or post show and will be tailored to the meet the needs of the school or group. Within the workshops the students will get the chance to explore the wonderful characters from Snow White, the songs, stage make-up, costumes, slapstick comedy and other elements related to Pantomime.

PANTOMANIA DAY

The Guide Sept-Dec 2012

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Saturday 24th November 10am – 4pm For children aged 8 - 12 yrs £10 per person Hi Ho Hi Ho to PANTOMANIA DAY we go!!! Come along and join in all the fun in our Snow white Pantomania day!! On this day you will receive a backstage tour of the Snow White set, get the opportunity to meet and greet some of the Snow White characters, try on some colourful panto costumes and find out some theatrical make up tips. To finish off you’ll create your own slapstick routines, sing songs and explore principle characters.

Please note: Only schools or groups coming to see the pantomime can book a workshop.

Those taking part in the pantomania day will also be given one free ticket for the night time performance of the pantomime.

To make a booking or for a free education pack then please contact the box office on 01563 554900

For further information or to make a booking please contact the box office on 01563 554900

To book contact Kate Davies on 01563 553440 or by email kate.davies@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

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Snow White Christmas Festival

Saturday 24 Nov - Sunday 30 Dec Tickets from £9.50 Palace Theatre Complex

Mirror mirror on the wall, who is the fairest of them all?” With spectacular sets and costumes, fabulous songs and dances and bags of slapstick fun Snow White is a pantomime not to be missed!

The Guide Funders

Saturday 1 Dec + Sunday 2 Dec Dean Castle Country Park Visit Dean Castle Country Park’s Christmas Festival is the perfect event to get you in the mood for Christmas!

Santa’s Grotto Saturday 8 + Sunday 9 Dec Saturday 15 + Sunday 16 Dec In keeping with this magical theme, Santa will be on hand as usual in his Victorian Grotto. See inside for details.