The Storylands Sessions are a series of music and storytelling events in Badenoch led by musician, Hamish Napier, and writer, Merryn Glover.

OPEN MIC

Tuesday 12th July - Theme: LABOUR OF LOVE

'Heigh-ho, Heigh-ho, it's off to work we go!' Like it or not, we all have to work. Whether at home or the office, school or on the land, effort is part of being alive. But it's better when it's shared and better still when the labour is leavened with a song or a tale. Bring your music, poetry and stories about work, rest and play; from slavery to steelworks, farming to funfairs, it's a rich seam to mine.

With special guests Comhlan Luadh Bhàideanach - the Badenoch Waulking Group. We are delighted to feature this team of local ladies who are keeping alive the ancient Highland Gaelic tradition of women singing together as they rhythmically beat the woven tweed. They will perform for us in traditional dress and explain the origins of this old and beautiful form of song.

7.30pm-10pm-ish (doors open at 7pm)

Ptarmigan Dome @ Loch Insh

Loch Insh Outdoor Centre, near Kincraig, Invernesshire, Scotland, PH21 1NU

Programme

Our evening always begins with half an hour or so featuring our special guests, and then we open the floor!

We welcome:

- folk who just want to come along and listen. You don't have to perform to be taking part and thunderous applause is always appreciated!

- all kinds of stories: historical, myth and legend, your own experiences - or a mix!

- poetry: ideally your own, but your faves from other poets welcome, too

- music: traditional, contemporary, original or borrowed; instrumental or sung; solo or ensemble

Anything on theme will do, up to five minutes, with a possible second turn if there's time.

You can offer a contribution on the spur of the moment, but priority for slots will go to those who book in advance. Just email us once you've got your ticket. (You aren't signing a contract; you can always change your mind.) Most of the time, available slots are booked up before the night, so if you're keen to share, don't wait till the last minute!

The evening will be threaded together by your co-hosts, Merryn and Hamish, with tales, tunes and terrible jokes.

And there will be CAKE!

A refreshment break half way allows time to mingle and enjoy heartening beverages and tray bakes from the team at Loch Insh. In fact, why not make a night of it and book a meal at the Loch Insh Restuarant beforehand? The whole menu is available but they are also offering a Special Storylands Supper from 6 to 7pm of either steak pie & chips OR baked potato and vegan chilli with salad. All for £10!

Pre-booking for either a la carte or specials is ESSENTIAL on 01540 651394 or email restaurant@lochinsh.co.uk

UPCOMING OPEN MICS

Tuesday 9th Aug - Theme: TBC

With special guest Sarah Hobbs of Strathspey Storywalks.

No Open Mic in September as we will be holding an event during the Badenoch Heritage Festival. Tuesday 20th September, more info coming soon!

Tuesday 11th October - Theme: TBC

With special guest, artist Ann Vastano.

WORKSHOPS

The Storylands Sessions also run a series of workshops in word and music:

Folk Music with Hamish Napier: In Person - Info & Tickets

Folk Music with Hamish Napier: Online - Info & Tickets

Stories and Poetry for Performance with Merryn Glover: In Person - Info & Tickets

Stories and Poetry for Performance with Merryn Glover: Online - Info & Tickets

Keep an eye on our website below and social media for further updates about The Storylands Sessions events. Even better, to be on the inside lane, sign up for our mailing list here.

www.badenochstorylands.com/storylands-sessions

www.merrynglover.com

www.hamishnapier.com

Follow #BadenochTheStorylands #StorylandsSessions on social media

Storylands Sessions is proud to be funded by Creative Scotland, the Cairngorms National Park Authority, Highland Council and Wildland Limited and to be a partner in the Scotland Year of Stories 2022 programme.