Small Town Boys
Open House
Solo artists, theatre and dance companies often have very limited access to resources. Making work is a continual struggle to find time, the space and the energy to get together to try out new ideas for shows – and this research time is almost always unsupported.
Yet many theatres and arts buildings across Scotland have some spare space and time in their schedules when their rehearsal rooms aren’t in full-time use. Usually, these spaces are then hired out to other artists – those exact same artists and companies who don’t have access to resources or are often unsupported financially.
So, at Macrobert, we’re changing.
I’m pleased to welcome playwright Michael John O’Neill in residence this Autumn/Winter having been awarded one of the Scottish Society of Playwrights 50th Anniversary Fellowships. Grangemouth, Scotland’s last remaining oil refinery, is slated to cease operations in 2025. The owners have acknowledged this will mean thousands of job losses in the Forth Valley. Michael’s undertaking research for a new play reckoning with the significance of Grangemouth’s closure, while questioning what constitutes justice in the early days of the end of oil.
From Spring 2025, professional artists will be able to register to use our rehearsal room facilities entirely free of charge, with access given simply on an availability basis and shared with different artists. It’s a small step in a new direction towards creating a new and purposeful sharing-economy in the arts. Rather than all the resource of Macrobert be ‘ours’ instead
they’re openly shared to the benefit of both us and our partner artists…
Although Open House is part of our new professional performing artist programme (with more to come...) I’m hoping audiences will eventually benefit as theatre and dance shows that once started out just as ideas being explored at Macrobert will one day become fantastic and successful new shows seen by thousands across Scotland.
Professional artists working in theatre, dance and contemporary performance practice who are interested in being part of Open House programme should just get in touch with me. It’s really that simple. programming@macrobertartscentre.org
No alarms, no surprises. Free, always.
Ed Robson Artistic Director & CEO, Macrobert Arts Centre
We’re opening our doors as Macrobert launches its new Open House programme – a professional artist development opportunity for people working in the field of theatre, dance orperformancecontemporarypractice.
CREATIVE ACTIVITIES
Please see our website for further information and to book.
M DRAMA: MINI [P1-P3] JUNIOR [P4-P6] - SENIOR [P7-S2]
Mini - Weekly from Thu 29 Aug - Thu 10 Oct
Junior - Weekly from Wed 28 Aug - Wed 9 Oct
Senior - Weekly from Wed 28 Aug - Wed 9 Oct
Venue: Macrobert Arts Centre
M Drama: Mini Tickets: You Choose from £40.00
M Drama: Junior Tickets: You Choose from £50.00
M Drama: Senior Tickets: You Choose from £50.00
M Drama is a place where you can explore your passion for the performing arts in a safe and supportive environment, improve your confidence and, most importantly, make friends. Whether you’re a budding actor or just curious about exploring the world of theatre, our weekly sessions cater to all skill levels.
M DANCE: ADULT
Weekly Mon 2 Sep - Mon 7 Oct
7.00pm – 8.30pm
Tickets: You Choose from £7.00
Venue: Wallace High Dance Studio
M Dance: Adult is a dynamic contemporary dance class offering a supportive environment where participants can develop their dance skills, express themselves creatively, and connect with their fellow dancers and a professional dance artist.
M DANCE: PLUS
Weekly from Thu 5 Sep - Thu 10 Oct 10:00am - 11:30am
Tickets: You Choose from £5.00
Venue: Lecropt Hall, Bridge of Allan.
M Dance: Plus is a low-impact contemporary dance class for the over 50s that offers a unique blend of movement and socialising, ensuring that everyone feels welcome and engaged. All levels are welcome!
The class is not just about dancing, as towards the end of the class we offer tea/coffee and biscuits so you can have a well-deserved break and a natter!
DANCE FOR PARKINSON’S
Weekly from Wed 4 Sep - Wed 25 Sep 10.00am - 11:30am
Tickets: You Choose from £5.00
Venue: Cochrane Hall, Alva.
Using the themes and movement from Scottish Ballet productions, specially trained Dance Artists lead participants to develop movement skills with particular focus on the fluidity of movement, balance, coordination, expression, posture, and rhythm. The classes also include activities focused on problem-solving, improvisation, vocal skills, repetition from memory, and multi-tasking, which are all key areas for people with Parkinson’s. The classes feature live music accompaniment, with time for participants to socialise afterward with tea and coffee.
Photo credit: Tommy Ga-Ken Wan
HOLIDAY ACTIVITY
AUTUMN AND WINTER
Please see our website for further information and to book.
FUN PALACES
Sun 6 Oct from 10.00am
Venue: Macrobert Arts Centre
Fun Palaces supports local people to co-create their own cultural and community events across the UK and worldwide, sharing and celebrating the genius in everyone. This year, we’re looking for young people aged 5 - 18 to lead sessions over the weekend (with our help!) in any creative activity that they love. We want you to teach us (and other participants from the Macrobert community) how to do the creative thing you love best! If you’d be interested in leading a session, scan the QR code.
LIGHT LAB PROJECT
Sun 6 Oct from 10.00am
Venue: Macrobert Arts Centre
Light Projection artist Kenny Bean from the Light Lab Project will run free drop-in sessions and creative activities as part of Fun Palaces throughout the day focusing on light, shadow and colour.
OCTOBER WEEKSFILM IN A WEEK & ART CLUB
FILM IN A WEEK
Mon 14 - Fri 18 Oct
ART CLUB
Mon 21 - Fri 25 Oct
Venue: Bannockburn House
This October, we’re heading to Bannockburn House with some spooky creative activities. Inspired by the 17th Century A-listed mansion house, Film in a Week will support young people to unlock the secrets of Bannockburn House and explore its mysterious past.
Our Art Clubs offer young people the opportunity to dive into creativity with hands-on projects.
In our SFX Make-up workshops, you’ll learn how to bring your most imaginative makeup designs to life, creating stunningly realistic effects and otherworldly transformations. And of course, no Halloween celebration would be complete without a collection of chilling ghost stories.
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS CREATIVITY
Venue: Macrobert Arts Centre
Join us for a festive-filled selection box of workshops and events, encouraging you to get creative for 12 days in December, leading up to Christmas – from festive foliage to gorgeous gifts, dazzling decorations to mince pies and mulled wine, keep an eye on our website for further information and to book.
Photo credit: Tommy Ga-Ken Wan
Photo credit: T Whyler
CAPTURED NARRATIVES:
In Competition at Central Scotland Documentary Festival
Mon 23 Sep - Sun 10 Nov | Arthouse
Free entry
An exclusive exhibition featuring production stills from films vying for the Audience and Jury Awards at the 2024 edition of the Central Scotland Documentary Festival.
This showcase offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the creative processes of documentary filmmaking, exploring the artistry and dedication involved in producing compelling narratives and capturing the essence of each film and the vision of its creators. Journey through the lens and celebrate the talent and passion driving contemporary documentary cinema.
Rubber Chicken Theatre
THE LITTLE MERMAID
Fri 9 Aug | 7.30pm Sat 10 Aug | 2:00pm & 7.30pm
Tickets from £13.00
From the team that made Chitty fly, made Captain Hook’s ship sail and brought two world records to Macrobert, Rubber Chicken Theatre are delighted to be back with this timeless Disney classic as their flagship ‘show in a week’ production. Join over 150 kids, a live orchestra and a whole lot of Rubber Chicken theatrical magic as we head to an incredible underwater kingdom, where the beautiful mermaid Ariel dreams of living in the world above and falls in love with a human.
Featuring unforgettable songs including “Under the sea,” “Kiss the girl,” and “Part of your world.” with music by Alan Menken, Lyrics by Howard Ashman & Glenn Slater and book by Doug Wright.
Shaper/Caper
SMALL TOWN BOYS
Thu 26 Sep – Sun 29 Sep
8.00pm nightly & 3.30pm Sat matinee Thu 26 Sep
Venue: Fubar, 6 Maxwell Pl, Stirling, FK8 1JU
Tickets: You Choose from £5.00
Shaper/Caper presents Small Town Boys
- an interactive show exploring the escapism of queer nightlife during the 80s AIDS crisis through dance and spoken word. The story follows a young man as he leaves his small hometown to find refuge in the bright lights and warm embrace of the big city. He discovers solace and cheer in the city’s LGBTQ+ scene, but soon finds himself navigating a terrifying unfolding health crisis, almost completely ignored by the government.
Our dancers will be taking over the floor of the nightclub with all your favourite 80s anthems, along with our LGBTQ+ community cast, immersing audiences in the joy and chaos of the nightlife scene by dancing alongside them. The show features choreography by the award-winning Thomas Small, set and costume design by Becky Minto, lighting design by Dylan Baillie, and specially commissioned music by Mark Franks, composer and member of platinum-selling band The Overtones.
Small Town Boys beautifully blends lively action and tender vignettes, breathing life back into memories of the time, and all the joy and tragedy they contain. Winner of the Proud Scotland Creative Arts Award 2024.
Warning: Show contains adult themes, strong language, homophobic language, grief and death.
Movies to Musicals
LES MISERABLES
SCHOOLS EDITION
Thu 26 to Sat 28 Sep | 7.30pm Sat 28 Sep mat | 2.00pm
Tickets from £13.00
Performed entirely by students.
Les Misérables School Edition by Movies to Musicals is a MUST-SEE production following their sold-out, critically acclaimed 2023 Edinburgh Festival Fringe run.
Directed by Sam Hiller, Associate Director of London’s West End show, the show includes beloved songs including Bring Him Home, I Dreamed A Dream, One Day More, and many more.
This production showcases these talented young performers from all over Scotland as they take you back to early 19th-Century France.
Visible Fictions
UP
Tue 1 Oct | 1.00pm & 7.30pm
Tickets: You Choose: from £10.50
University of Stirling Students: £5.00
A huge story told with tiny things.
The odds of perishing in a commercial plane accident are 29.4 million to one. Reassuring. Except if you’re on the one... As emergency masks plummet, engines squeal and hand baggage flies from the overhead bins, two strangers hold hands. Scared and breathless, their lives flash past as they face their final moments together.
Exploring themes of luck and choice, fate and coincidence and above all what it means to connect with someone, this captivating and thrilling show is a fantasy table-top exploration where time is turned upside down and all the things that matter start to make sense.
For schools that book we can offer a Q&A with key members of the creative team and a recording of the show for use in exam preparation.
TO SAVE THE SEA
Fri 4 Oct | 7.30pm
Tickets: You Choose from £12.50
University of Stirling Students: £5.00
Inspired by a real-life 1995 protest, To Save the Sea is a vibrant, new musical about a group of Greenpeace activists who occupy the Brent Spar oil store in the North Sea.
While Shell plans to dump the defunct structure in the ocean, Greenpeace launch their biggest protest yet.
As the campaign gains momentum, pressure mounts on those in power and political battles ensue at sea and on land
Insideout Theatre Productions
A NIGHT AT THE MUSICALS
Sat 5 Oct | 7.30pm
Tickets: You Choose from £14.50
From the producers that brought you the smash-hit Girls’ Night OOT!
Join our first-class professional cast as they sing some of the best show tunes from London’s West End and Broadway.
Our fabulous four singers will perform songs from shows such as Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera, Wicked, and many more.
A Night at the Musicals has been touring Scotland for over ten years and has audiences dancing in the aisles.
Book your tickets now for a night of sensational singing and brilliant banter.
Ramesh Meyyappan’s
LOVE BEYOND
Wed 9 Oct | 7.30pm
12+ AGE BSL
Tickets: You Choose from £10.50 University of Stirling Students: £2.50
Love Beyond is a love story. But not a typical one.
Harry has dementia. He also uses sign language. As he moves into a new home, he is accompanied by memories that dance like ghosts around him.
Events from the past seem newly present; a visit from his wife rekindles their love - he imagines they are young and together again.
Harry’s carer provides him with some solace, but just as the determined nurse begins to learn Harry’s sign language, he begins to forget it, leaving him in a unique world where he must confront the only thing that remains – himself.
Love Beyond is a beautiful, tender and visually stunning show from renowned theatre artist Ramesh Meyyappan, directed by Matthew Lenton, in a co-production from Raw Material and Vanishing Point.
“Combines tremendous depths of emotion with sheer technical brilliance… which leads us straight into the surges of thought and emotion in Harry’s mind, that cannot be expressed in words.”
THE SCOTSMAN
“Passionate, powerful and poignant.”
EDINBURGH GUIDE
“The staging is a piece of creative genius” ALL EDINBURGH THEATRE
This show incorporates BSL, visual language (sign mime/visual vernacular) and oral dialogue. It intends to present an equal experience for d/Deaf audiences and hearing audiences.
Supported by The National Lottery through Creative Scotland.
Part of the Made in Scotland showcase 2024.
Image credit: Tommy Ga-Ken
Wan
Scottish Theatre Producers
Stirling University Drama Society
TREASURE ISLAND THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES
Sat 12 Oct | 6.00pm
Tickets: You Choose from £10.50
University of Stirling Students: £2.50
A new version of a classic story told like never before, bursting with sea shanties, treasures, and a sumptuous amount of adventure. This swashbuckling, fun-packed show invites you to embark on a global journey from the coasts of Scotland the edge of the world and beyond.
“evocative stage magic which unfurls itself with an honesty that captivates like few others... A Perfect Theatrical Page-Turner”
Mon 14 - Wed 16 Oct | 7.00pm
Tickets: You Choose from £8.00
Sir Henry is heir to the vast Baskerville fortune, a legacy that comes with a family curse: death at the fangs of a horror that prowls the moor. While mysterious lights signal Baskerville Hall, Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson investigate the case of the legend of a fearsome, diabolical hound of supernatural origin!
Gilded Balloon
JAY LAFFERTY: BAHOOKIE
Thur 17 Oct | 7.30pm
Tickets: You Choose from £14.00
University of Stirling Students: £2.50
BBC Breaking the News star Jay Lafferty combines comedy and pole dancing in this jam-packed hour tackling everything from ageing to internalised misogyny, celebrating the power of movement, body positivity and finding joy.
Bahookie is a tour-de-force celebration of what you can achieve when you’re terrified of becoming irrelevant, where Jay uses her signature warm wit and sharp observations to highlight the hilarity that comes from completely overestimating your own abilities.
“With Bahookie, Jay Lafferty has cemented herself as one of the strongest comedians on the circuit today. It’s a marvel how consistently brilliant her shows are”
BROADWAY BABY
“It is absolute dynamite, but then this whole hour is as tight as a gymnast’s leotard.”
FEST
“an outstanding comedian... beat a path to the ticket office while you have a chance.” ONE4REVIEW
What Moves You
MY FRIEND SELKIE
Sat 19 Oct | 2.00pm
Tickets: You Choose from £10.50
University of Stirling Students: £2.50
My Friend Selkie* offers a charming introduction to Scottish folk tales, landscape and music for the littlest of kids. Follow Jo (Niamh O’Loughlin) and her seal friend Selkie (Laura Booth) as they explore the world together as Selkie* learns about the stars and Jo learns how to swim.
Developed by the cast & Dawn Hartley from an original concept by Niamh, this original tale is perfect for all the family - with simple text and movement by dancers, interwoven with live music by Quee MacArthur (ex Shooglenifty), the show includes invitations to join in with the Crab Disco, play Magic Ball and try out the moves of Selkie’s sea pals!
“A child-like delight that encourages audience interaction and offers a charming introduction to Scottish folk tales” THE SKINNY
*In Celtic mythology, a Selkie appears to be a person on land yet changes with their Selkie coat to become a seal in the sea
BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL WORLD TOUR 2024 (BLUE PROGRAMME)
Sun 20 Oct | 7.30pm
Tickets: You Choose from £15.50
Experience an unforgettable evening of thrilling adventure – up on the big screen!
The Banff Mountain Film Festival features a brand-new collection of short films filled with extreme journeys, untamed characters and captivating cinematography! Join the world’s top adventure filmmakers and thrill-seekers as they climb, ski, paddle and ride into the wildest corners of the planet!
With free prize giveaways, this is an unmissable event from the world’s most prestigious mountain festival – guaranteed to spark your passion for adventure, action and travel!
Rubber Chicken Theatre
SIX: TEEN EDITION
Fri 25 & Sat 26 Oct | 5.00pm & 8.00pm
Tickets from £13.00
Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived.
From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the mic to remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a Euphoric Celebration of 21st-century girl power!
Rubber Chicken Theatre is back, following the success of The Little Mermaid, The Addams Family and more, with their senior contingent, for a new production of the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over.
By Ron Coleman
DEMENTIA THE MUSICAL
Wed 30 Oct | 7.30pm
Tickets: You Choose from £12.50
University of Stirling Students: £5.00
Dementia the Musical - a radical new musical raising the roof for dementia activism by Ron Coleman, Scottish poet & writer living with dementia, in collaboration with director Magdalena Schamberger and one of UK’s top jazz musicians Sophie Bancroft. Written for and with those living with dementia this new musical is based on the campaigning work of three of Scotland’s longest serving dementia activists James McKillop, Nancy McAdam and Agnes Houston and the fight they have led to ensure people with dementia have a voice in what happens in their lives.
HANDMADE: FESTIVE EDITION 2024
Venue: Arthouse
Sat 23 Nov 2024 - Sun 05 Jan 2025
Free entry
The Festive edition of Handmade returns filling Macrobert to the brim with quality gifts, cards and artworks produced by Scottish based independent artists & makers.
Thu 31 OctMon 4 Nov 2024
Macrobert Arts Centre
Talks | Docs | & more
CENTRAL SCOTLAND DOCUMENTARY FESTIVAL
Thu 31 Oct - Mon 4 Nov | Various times
Tickets: You Choose from £4.50 (Festival passes are available)
Central Scotland Documentary Festival returns from 31 Oct – 4 Nov, 2024 showcasing a diverse range of documentary and non-fiction films. The festival aims to highlight compelling storytelling, featuring both national and international filmmakers. Attendees can expect engaging screenings and thought-provoking discussions, spotlight themes such as environmental issues, social justice, and personal narratives. By fostering a space for dialogue and creativity, the Central Scotland Documentary Festival continues to celebrate the power of documentary filmmaking in capturing and reflecting real-world experiences.
You can help give a gift this Christmas by making a donation today
MACROBERT CHRISTMAS APPEAL
There’s nothing like the joy of watching a Christmas Pantomime, joining in with the shouts of ‘he’s behind you’ or booing the baddie. It’s a cherished tradition for many families, bringing people together during the festive season.
Sadly, some people in our community can’t afford this experience. At a time when finances are tight, Pantomime tickets are often out of reach for disadvantaged families. We believe Christmas should be magical for everyone, and no one should miss out.
“It was really good to get out, I love panto and wouldn’t get the opportunity to see one if I wasn’t gifted one of those tickets - it’s very much appreciated”
Recipient from last year
Since 2012, thanks to the support of people like you, we have been able to gift around 4,000 Panto tickets to those in need of an extra smile at this time of year. Working with more than 20 local charities, we will help to spread the magic of Christmas throughout Forth Valley. www.macrobertartscentre.org/support/christmas-appeal
“We have never been to a panto before, what a great experience”
Recipient from last year
PRESENTS
FRIDAY 29 NOVEMBER to TUESDAY 31 DECEMBER
KARA SWINNEY Felicia Fennington -Farrington-The Fourth
CHRIS FORBES NANNY MARIA SHUT-YON-TRAPP
TINASHE WARIKANDWA SNOW WHITE DE’WHARFF
HELEN MCALPINE SWANKY DE’WHARFF
Oh dear. Things aren’t going too well down in Stirling Stella. The Baroness Fantasia De’Wharff needs a nanny to control her seven unruly step-children, particularly the rather wild Snow White. Step forward Nanny Maria Shut-YonTrapp who wants to fill the pantosphere with her own Sound Of Music.
Once settled in her new home, Nanny Maria discovers that the evil Fantasia is planning on murdering Snow White and running away with the rather dashing Prince Rupert Charming-Darling. Will Nanny Maria save the day and defeat evil? Will Snow White eat her vegetables (and poisoned fruit)? Is there enough curtain fabric to make seven matching outfits for the De’Wharff family?
Find out in this year’s family panto –Snow White.
TICKETS
22
1.30pm 6.00pm
23 Dec 2.00pm 7.00pm Tue 24 Dec 1.30pm 6.00pm Wed 25 Dec Merry Christmas Thu 26 Dec 1.30pm 6.00pm Fri 27 Dec 2.00pm 7.00pm Sat 28 Dec 2.00pm 7.00pm Sun 29 Dec 1.30pm 6.00pm
“I hope it’s something they’ll remember, something they can take away. I want it to be that show they recall when they grow up”
©
IN CONVERSATION WITH... DANIEL LIVINGSTON
We recently had the pleasure of chatting with Daniel, Macrobert’s Creative Activities Artist, who is set to direct this year’s Christmas show for under 5’s, Santa’s Magical Lighthouse.
With six years of experience as a Creative Activities Artist, Daniel has worked with communities across Forth Valley, creating magical projects that enchant audiences of all ages.
“After co-directing the performance in 2019, it’s lovely to have it back and working on it again with a new team,” Daniel shared. “I was approached to direct it after co-directing in 2019, and it’s a lovely little show.”
Daniel’s goal is to craft a show that leaves a lasting impression on its young audience. “I hope it’s something they’ll remember, something they can take away. I want it to be that show they recall when they grow up,” he says. Drawing from his own childhood memories of an interactive story about a one-eyed Scottish troll, complete with amazing smells and music, Daniel aims to create a similarly unforgettable experience. “That stuck with me as an adult,” he recalls.
Daniel looks forward to working with fellow creatives to build a wonderful little world. This production features two actors playing the same role, allowing each to bring their unique perspective to the characters of Bailey or Boo. “Each show is a different experience for the audience depending on who you see.”
Although this is Daniel’s first time solo directing a show at Macrobert, he brings ample experience, having co-directed Santa’s Magical Lighthouse previously. His passion and dedication promise a magical experience for all who attend.
Stay tuned for more updates and behind-thescenes insights as we get closer to the show. Don’t miss out on what promises to be a delightful and memorable performance for children aged 5 and under.
Performance times
Performance times
Tue 3 dec 10am 1.15pm
Wed 4 dec 10am 1.15pm
Thu 5 dec 10am 1.15pm
Fri 6 dec 10am 1.15pm
Sat 7 dec 10am 1.15pm
Sun 8 dec 10am 1pm
Wed 11 dec 10am (bSL) 1.15pm
10am 1.15pm 10am 1.15pm 10am 1.15pm 10am 1.15pm 10am 1.15pm 10am 1pm
Thu 12 dec 10am 1.15pm
Fri 13 dec 10am 1.15pm
Sat 14 dec 10am 1.15pm
Sun 15 dec 10am 1pm
Wed 18 dec 10am 1.15pm
Thu 19 dec 10am 1.15pm
Written by Andy
Wed 11 10am (bSL) 1.15pm 1.15pm
Written by Andy McGregor
McGregor
WRITTEN BY ANDY MCGREGOR AND DIRECTED BY
Fri 20 dec 10am 1.15pm
Fri 20 dec 10am 1.15pm Sat 21 dec 10am 1.15pm (bSL) Sun 22 dec 10am 1pm Mon 23 dec 10am 1pm Tue 24 dec 10am 1pm Wed 25 dec Merry Christmas Thu 26 dec 11.30am 2.30pm
Sat 21 dec 10am 1.15pm (bSL) Sun 22 dec 10am 1pm Mon 23 dec 10am 1pm Tue 24 dec 10am 1pm
Wed 25 dec Merry Christmas 11.30am 2.30pm 11am 2.30pm (R) 11am 2.30pm 11am 2.30pm 11am 2.30pm 11.30am 2.30pm
Fri 27 dec 11am 2.30pm (R) Sat 28 dec 11am 2.30pm Sun 29 dec 11am 2.30pm Mon 30 dec 11am 2.30pm Tue 31 dec 11.30am 2.30pm
Book Tickets: 01786 466 666
Book Tickets: 01786 466 666
CRAIG HILL
I’VE BEEN SITTING ON THIS FOR A WHILE!
Fri 7 Feb | 7.30pm
Tickets: You Choose from £19.50 University of Stirling Students: £5.00
Don’t miss this unfiltered and hilarious evening with Scotland’s favourite high-octane Kilty Pleasure as Craig brings his new show to Macrobert. Stand-up comedy, dancing and everything you ever thought, but never said out loud! Much loved and renowned world-wide for his cheeky, irreverent and uproarious live comedy, Craig’s tours are firmly established as guaranteed laugh-out-loud night out. His razor-sharp wit and unsurpassed audience rapport have seen him perform all over Europe, Australia (including the Sydney Opera House) all over Scotland as well as south of the border and even a season of shows off-Broadway in New York. Craig’s been twice nominated for the Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award - get ready for an outrageously fun night of fantastic laughs! Book early!
‘A laugh-out-loud performance from beginning to end... absolutely hilarious!’ LIST
‘Flat-out hilarious... I’ve not heard a room laugh so long and hard... Genuinely funny’ MIRROR
Dogstar Theatre
Written by James Robertson, adapted by Matthew Zajac
THE TESTAMENT OF GIDEON MACK
Fri 21 Feb | 7.30pm Tickets: You Choose from £12.50 University of Stirling Students: £5.00
Dogstar’s vibrant new stage version of James Robertson’s acclaimed novel tells a story of grief and the crisis of faith in our society, channelled through the story of one generous, energetic, perceptive, ashamed and very Presbyterian individual, the Reverend Gideon Mack of Monimaskit. A story of late 20th century Scotland, a story of a minister who doesn’t believe in God. Then he meets the Devil.
The Testament of Gideon Mack is full of humour, provocation and the supernatural, presenting a microcosm of small-town Scotland with a cast of vividly-drawn characters. An ensemble cast of eight actors will evoke Monimaskit’s community as it grapples with Gideon’s revelation that he spent three days with the Devil. Is Gideon a prophet or a man sent mad by grief?
‘In the hands of great writers, the unlikeliest stories are generally the most rewarding.’ Irvine Welsh, Guardian
‘Hugely enjoyable, very funny’ HERALD
‘Fabulous’ SCOTLAND ON SUNDAY
‘Utterly compelling from start to finish’ BIG ISSUE
Photo credit: Steve Ullathorne
GORDON BUCHANAN
LIONS AND TIGERS AND BEARS
Sat 22 Feb | 7.30pm
Tickets: You Choose from £28.00
Award winning wildlife photographer and filmmaker Gordon Buchanan will hit the road in 2025 with his biggest ever live tour - Lions and Tigers and Bears.
Join Gordon as he recounts thrilling encounters with pandas, grizzlies, tigers, jaguars and more. Learn about the heart-stopping moments, the mud, sweat, and tears, and the tender interactions that have shaped his extraordinary career.
Gordon Buchanan has dedicated his life to exploring the untamed beauty of the natural world, from the bamboo forests of China to the snowy landscapes of Russia, from the towering Himalayas to the depths of the Amazon. His mission: to capture the majestic big cats and bears on film and reveal their secrets to a global audience.
Book your tickets now and don’t miss the opportunity to be inspired in a night of adventure, awe and wonder!
Chambers Touring present
LARRY DEAN: DODGER
Fri 28 Feb | 8.00pm
Tickets: £18.50
16+ AGE
Larry’s been spending a lot of time with his granny lately. He wants to tell you about it. Join the thrice Edinburgh Comedy Award-nominated, two-time star of Live At The Apollo for a hilarious new show about identity, heroes and the benefits of being a dafty.
As seen on Mock The Week, House Of Games, Fandan (Channel 4 Comedy Special) and Michael McIntyre’s Big Show
“A superb piece of stand-up… at the top of his game.”
THE INDEPENDENT
“Twinklingly charismatic… the gag rate is ridiculously high”
TELEGRAPH
“A randy crab” THE HERALD
ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA EVENT CINEMA SEASON
2024/25
Tickets: You Choose from £15.50
The Royal Opera
THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO
Tue 10 Sep 2024 | 6.30pm Sun 15 Sep 2024 | 1.00pm
It’s Figaro’s wedding, and you’re invited to join the Almaviva household for an uproarious day of revelation and scandal. Mozart’s comic opera is packed with plot twists, forbidden desires and unforgettable melodies, combining laugh-out-loud comedy with moments of breathtaking beauty.
The Royal Ballet
ALICE’S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND
Tue 15 Oct 2024 | 7.15pm Sun 20 Oct 2024 | 2.00pm
Tumble down the rabbit hole in this ballet adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s famous family story. Journey through Wonderland with Alice and encounter a host of curious characters in Christopher Wheeldon’s unique theatrical interpretation.
The Royal Ballet
CINDERELLA
Sun 15 Dec 2024 | 2.00pm
This Christmas, be transported into an ethereal world where a sprinkling of fairy dust makes dreams come true. This enchanting ballet by The Royal Ballet’s Founding Choreographer Frederick Ashton, is a theatrical experience for all the family.
The Royal Ballet
THE NUTCRACKER (2023)
Thu 19 Dec 2024 | 7.30pm Sat 21 & Sun 22 Dec 2024 | 1.30pm
Discover the enchantment of ballet with this sparkling festive treat for the whole family. Julia Trevelyan Oman’s period designs bring festive charm to Peter Wright’s beloved Royal Ballet production, as fairytale magic comes together with spectacular dancing in this unforgettable classic ballet.
The Royal Opera
THE TALES OF HOFFMAN
Wed 15 Jan 2025 | 7.15pm Sun 19 Jan 2025 | 2.00pm
Four women: four curious love stories. Juan Diego Flórez leads a fantastic cast in Offenbach’s dream-like opera.
The Royal Ballet
SWAN LAKE
Thu 27 Feb 2025 | 7.15pm Sun 2 Mar 2025 | 2.00pm
Classical ballet’s most powerful tale of love, treachery and forgiveness. Bringing together Tchaikovsky’s sensational score with the incredible imagination of choreographer Liam Scarlett and designer John Macfarlane, Swan Lake on the big screen will be an exceptional way to experience this ultimate ballet classic.
COMING SOON IN 2025
IAIN STIRLING - RELEVANT
Fri 4 Apr | 7.30pm Tickets
The BAFTA-winning comedian, ‘national sensation’ (Evening Standard) and ‘extremely funny’ (Daily Telegraph) Iain Stirling, is bringing his intuitive razor-sharp humour back on tour with a brand new stand-up show for 2024-25.
As the iconic voice of Love Island, star and writer of sitcom Buffering on ITV, and with his own stand-up special, Failing Upwards, on Prime Video,
Iain hits the road once more with a brand new hour (of jokes) in his biggest tour to date! (It’s called RELEVANT if you’re interested).
Touring the UK and Ireland in 2024-25.
“a comic who is as sharp as he is self-aware… Stirling finds an expert balance between braggadocio and humility”
Jay Richardson, THE LIST
PLANNING YOUR VISIT MACROBERT ARTS CENTRE, UNIVERSITY OF STIRLING, STIRLING, FK9 4LA
Macrobert Arts Centre is based on the campus of the University of Stirling. The campus is set at the foot of the Ochil Hills, and surrounds the Airthrey Loch. Our front doors now form part of Campus Central, the building extension on the site of Queen’s Court roundabout.
ONLINE 24/7
Choose your own seats and buy tickets securely at a time that suits you at macrobertartscentre.org Some performances use unserved seating.
IN PERSON
For that personal touch – pop into our Box Office within Campus Central.
Mon – Sun: 10.00am - 7.00pm BY PHONE
Tel: 01786 466 666
Textphone: 18001 01786 466 666
Mon – Sun: 10.00am - 7.00pm
TERMS & CONDITIONS & REFUND POLICY
We’re unable to offer any refunds unless we cancel the event. We may be able to exchange your tickets for a small admin fee - please contact the Box Office. You can view our full Terms & Conditions at our Box Office or on our website.
BOOKING FEE & RESTORATION LEVY
Online and telephone bookings are subject to a £1 booking fee per transaction. Ticket prices for most shows include a £1 contribution to our development fund helping protect the future of Macrobert Arts Centre and improve our facilities.
YOU CHOOSE: PICK THE PRICE YOU PAY
Our new pricing model asks people to make the choice about what you can afford to pay for your ticket with three options available. All price bands are open to absolutely everyone, and there’s no need to prove (or explain) why you choose a price band. No-one will ask about, or question, your choice. None of the rates are ‘concessions’ or ‘premiums’.
GROUP BOOKINGS
The more the merrier! For bookings of 10 or more - email groups@macrobertartscentre.org
INFANTS
All patrons must purchase a ticket, including infants. We offer a limited number of free tickets for children (under 12 months old) who are sharing a seat with their carer - these must be booked in advance and are subject to availability.
ACCESS
Our building is accessible to wheelchair users and we have a changing places toilet, you can find us on the CPT register. Gender neutral toilet cubicles are available in the Playhouse Foyer. We welcome children and families and are accessible for prams and pushchairs, an unsupervised buggy park is available in the foyer area opposite the bar. Booster cushions are available on request for the Filmhouse. Mothers are welcome to breastfeed anywhere and we have baby changing facilities in both the men’s and women’s toilets in the main foyer.
PARKING
There are additional blue badge car parking spaces available outside of our new entrance with an easy to access ramp right to our front door. This is also where you can drop off.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT – BUS HUB
The bus hub on campus is located by the Stirling Court Hotel. There are regular buses to and from the campus bus hub and a number that drop off on Hillfoots Road at the back of the university.
MAINHOUSE SEATING PLAN
STAGE
SCREEN
To Save the Sea
My Friend Selkie
Craig Hill