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Welcome to MacArts!
MacArts is run by the Duncan MacKinnon Music and Arts Trust - a charitable organisation inspired by the visionary spirit of Dunc Mackinnon, a prominent Borders promoter who brought high profile acts to the Scottish Borders in the 1960s. The Trust was formed to fulfil an ambition to create a state-of-the-art music and arts venue and community space in a disused listed building of historic and architectural significance in the centre of Galashiels with an emphasis on involving everyone in the community ; this space is now known as MacArts. |
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saturday 1st april
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The Filthy Tongues will release their much awaited third album, ‘In These Dark Places’, at the end of January 2023.
It is the final part of a trilogy based on their hometown of Edinburgh and promises to be every bit as compelling as the previous two instalments. ‘Jacob's Ladder’ and ‘Back to Hell’ both received rave reviews across the board and ‘In These Dark Places’ is sure to deliver a suitably uncompromising conclusion to this fine body of work. From the fittingly claustrophobic juggernaut of an earworm that is Gas Mask Blues, the romping, acerbic snarl of Pandemic Pete and the drunk tank admission of the title track to the relentless, questioning riot that is Tricky Nicky, it’s time to get ready for another rollercoaster. MORE ABOUT THE BAND The Filthy Tongues have occupied a unique place at the heart of Scottish alternative rock, in various manifestations, since the mid 80’s. Goodbye Mr Mackenzie, a stunning live band with Martin Metcalfe resembling the MC of a debauched, vaguely gothic cabaret, morphed into Angelfish who established a hardcore following (which remains strong today) as the band appeared in both the UK national and US college charts. From reluctant backing singer in the Mackenzies to front woman in Angelfish, Shirley Manson’s nascent style and talent were nurtured and influenced by the lyrical and musical talents of Metcalfe, Fin Wilson and Derek Kelly. The eventual amicable split left behind ‘the most complex, fascinating musical footprint of any Scottish band yet’. (The List magazine) This period was followed by 2 albums as Isa & the Filthy Tongues which garnered various 5 star reviews and saw them played regularly on BBC6 Music. The band also featured on the soundtrack to Richard Jobson’s New Town Killers film and caught the ear of Hollywood in David Mackenzie’s film Spread. In a colourful career the band have worked and toured with Blondie, The Ramones, Chris Frantz and Tina Weymouth from the Talking Heads, Vic Chesnutt, New York Dolls, Big Audio Dynamite, Aztec Camera and many more. Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £15 (standing) Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
thursday 6th april
Wandering willie's tale
A story of the supernatural by Sir walter scott
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Performed by John Nichol and Iain Fraser (fiddle)
Sir Walter Scott’s short story, Wandering Willie’s Tale, is a self-contained episode from his historical novel, Redgauntlet, published in 1824, and was first adapted for the stage by Judy Steel and John Nichol. Set in the post-Jacobite period, with the blood of the Covenanters still fresh on the ground, this is the supernatural tale told by blind fiddler, Willie Steenson, to pass a journey with Dairsie Latimer, the hero of the book -a tale that has become recognised as one of the finest of all Scottish short stories. The tale is of Willie’s grandfather, Steenie, who sets out on a mysterious and terrifying journey to prove his loyalty towards his master, the merciless Sir Robert Redgauntlet. Although Steenie’s weird adventure happens in the late 17th century, just after the ‘Killing Times’, the characters are not so much old-world as timeless, just as the traditional music of the fiddle is of their days and ours. Steenie and the various other protagonists are masterfully brought to life by John Nichol, and music from renowned fiddler, Iain Fraser, adds atmosphere and authenticity. The Rowan Tree Company performed Wandering Willie’s Tale at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2001, earning five-star reviews. Now the same performers, under the banner of HotTrod, are delighted to be back to present the tale again. It’s a story that appeals to all ages and can prove an introduction to younger people to that most influential of Scots and of writers, Sir Walter Scott. Doors: 7pm / 7:30pm start Tickets: £12 general admission / £10 concession (all seated) Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
FRIDAY 7th April
INCUBATOR SESSION
3 OUT of 4 + LEATHERETTE + YARIS + Racain
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Another installment from our monthly INCUBATOR SESSION, showcasing the best new music from the Scottish Borders.
3 Out of 4 An energetic and dynamic alternative rock band from the Scottish Borders, and an alumni of the Hit The Road Summer 2022 Tour. Formed in March, 2019 , their style is predominantly punk, rock and grunge, engaging audiences with catchy melodies, insightful but playful lyrics and driven by strong instrumentation and audience interaction. Their palette of influence is wide ranging with bands such as Green Day, The Offspring, Foo Fighters, With Confidence, The Beatles and more. Their Brand New Single, 'Heroin', released in 2022 from the back of the Hit The Road tour, which marks a heavier shift in sound from their previous EP 'Divide' released in 2019. Leatherette This five-piece rock band from Berwick-upon-Tweed that formed officially in 2021. Their music blends genres into an original sound that's mostly inspired by bands from the 80s such as Depeche Mode, New Order and The Cure but also incorporates a heavier guitar sound inspired by older and modern metal bands. The lyrics are dark, meaningful and uncompromising. 2023 will bring the release of their first ever single 'Love's Not Easy' along with more singles that were recorded in the summer of 2022. Yaris Rocktastic. One of the best new rock bands in the borders! Racain Born in the rhythm section of their high school jazz band, Racain is a young, queer band gaining quick traction in the borders. Influenced by indie, rock and Alt Z, their music varies from high energy to stripped-back acoustic. Doors: 7pm / 7.30pm start Tickets: £5 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
Saturday 8th April
Hunter and McMustard
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As well as Colonel Mustard & The Dijon 5 good times, try some Hunter & McMustard for a better life! Hunter & McMustard are writing songs they describe as dirty lowlander contemporary untrad. Their 1st release a tribute to comedy legend Billy Connolly was to raise funds and awareness for the Friends of the People's Palace and Winter Gardens. The next batch of songs include historical reimaginings of 'the last march of the Jacobite army', climate change with This West Of Scotland Vegan Is Going To Do Your Nut In'. An eclectic modern take on folk music with a social and global consciousness. Their passion for the environment and rewilding has lead them to write and perform Born To Rewild a walking gig theatre show performed outdoors in nature at Vogrie Pogrie Festival, the Govan Wetlands Project and Kelburn Garden Party as well as playing at campaigns to Save Maryhill Library and The Peoples Palace and The Winter Gardens. They have influences as varied as The Mighty Boosh, George Monbiot, Simon and Garfunkel and the Humble Bums. Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £12 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
friday 21st april
THE VINTAGE EXPLOSION
‘I have just discovered the best white soul singer I have ever heard... The Vintage Explosion. I am dumbfounded at how good he is!’
Rod Stewart |
/ Catch this chance to see viral sensations The Vintage Explosion live before they go global! You will be transported back in time for a night of authentic Rock n Roll, Swing and Rhythm and Blues.
Grab your tickets now and party like it’s 1959! Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £20 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
FRIday 28th april
Bronwynne Brent trio
'Female Vocalist of The Year'
Americana UK 'A Peggy Lee-like groove' The Daily Express 'Absolutely gorgeous - really special!' Bob Harris, BBC |
Spilling the tea of love and reading the leaves has been the leitmotif of Greenville, Mississippi's own Bronwynne Brent’s work for nearly a decade. “I know,” she sighs, folding into a southern drawl, “it’s not like I sit down and try to write love songs, but what else is more important than love?” Lauded by American Songwriter Magazine as “captivating”, Brent’s last release, Stardust, saw her voted Female Performer of the Year twice in a row by Americana UK and called up for television and radio appearances on the BBC. For her latest album, Undercover, the Greenville, Mississippi, native setup shop at Brooklyn’s legendary Daptone Studios. Conjured up with trusted collaborator and producer Johnny Sangster, Undercover is a deep Southern roux, combining simple elements of folk, blues, and jazz into a complex and flavorful brew of truth-imbued Americana.
Using her world of experience to poke out small town prying eyes amid a groovy, organ heavy title track, she’s positively funky lamenting old habits on “Walking Relapse.” On a bluesy cover of Chuck Willis’ “What’cha Gonna Do When Your Baby Leaves You”, Brent celebrates the forward-looking 1950’s artists patented rock ‘n’ stroll. Her interpretation of Belgian crooner Jacques Brel’s “If You Go Away” matches the emotional complexity and sardonic intensity that made Brel himself famous. She discovered the track listening to Nina Simone records, and brought in another frequent collaborator, cellist Barb Hunter, to arrange strings into a symphony strong enough to make it a James Bond theme. Brent’s deftness for inhabiting the perspective of a wronged lover makes her voice extra poignant on her songs about trauma bonds. “I don’t play the blues,” says Brent, “but I’m definitely singin’ ‘em!” Helmed by Brent’s singular, bold, alchemical voice, Undercover is a ferocious amalgam of American roots music, at once devastating and empowering. It’s Bronwynne Brent’s best recording, made at a studio famous for its soul, by a band known for revitalizing rock ‘n’ roll. Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £12.50 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
saturday 29th april
Horse
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One of Scotland’s finest singer-songwriters…
A HORSE show is so much more than just a show, it’s like a reunion of old friends, an event. Fitting then, that she’s returning to MacArts once more, a favourite venue. This acoustic performance shall reveal some of the songs from her long-awaited new album - her 11th - destined for a summer release. As it’s the 30th anniversary of her second album, God’s Home Movie, April’s show will feature a smattering of songs from this classic no doubt. “A Horse concert is a little bit like having a warm and comforting security blanket wrapped around you” Southside Advertiser Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £19 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
SUNDAY 30th April
The tannahill weavers
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Born of a session in Paisley, Scotland, and named for the town's historic weaving industry and local poet laureate Robert Tannahill, the Tannahill Weavers have made an international name for their special brand of Celtic music, blending the beauty of traditional melodies with the power of modern rhythms. As one of the world's premier traditional Celtic bands, their diverse repertoire spans the centuries with fire-driven instrumentals, topical songs, original ballads and lullabies, and humorous tales of life in Scotland.
“The music may be pure old time Celtic, but the drive and enthusiasm are akin to straight ahead rock and roll.” Winnipeg Free Press "An especially eloquent mixture of the old and the new." New York Times Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £13 advance / £15 On the door Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18s |
Thursday 4th May
BROwnbear
'Demons' The Acoustic ALBUM TOUR 2023
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Scottish collective brownbear return to MacArts with songs from their dynamic and eagerly-awaited second album Demons, due for release in March.
brownbear is the Ayrshire group fronted by singer-songwriter, musician, writer and filmmaker Matt Hickman, who combines a gift for storytelling with his distinctive ‘adopted genre’ of indie-soul. The joyous, upbeat verses of ‘All I Want’ fuse brownbear’s rich sound with acoustic flourishes that burst into an earnest, poignant chorus, as Hickman reflects on both the fear and excitement that accompanies the feeling of falling in love. This relatability at the heart of ‘All I Want’ - the opening track from ‘Demons’ - underscores the deeply accessible and moving songwriting that characterises the forthcoming album. Demons is the follow up to their much-loved 2018 debut album What Is Home?, and sees Hickman build on the singular voice he developed on that release as he traversed themes of identity, love and loss. Demons is without doubt brownbear’s most assured, polished and endearing production yet. From the addictively vibrant, toe-tapping mood of ‘All I Want’, the album flows into the equally touching and high-spirited ‘Close Call’, where a buoyant melody and driving guitar riffs take centre stage and highlight the group’s knack for transforming revealing lyricism into uniquely moving, blissful indie-pop. Hickman and co journey through the highs and lows of life, exploring the universality of emotion, and ‘Demons’ feels like a comforting arm around a shoulder, a reminder that we’re all in this together. Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £10 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18s |
monday 8th May
Rich Hall: SHOT FROM CANNONS
'Vital and incredulously angry. Hilarious.' The Scotsman
'Blissfully funny' Guardian 'One hour of stonking stand-up and another of stomping hoedown mayhem. That’s two top gigs in one' ★★★★ Mail on Sunday |
Fresh on the heels of his critically acclaimed memoirs, Nailing It, Montana’s transatlantic messenger returns with new rants, knife-edge observations, thrilling musical interludes and an ever-formidable knack for laughs on the fly.
You’ll pay for the whole seat, but you’ll only need the edge of it. Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £17 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18s |
wednesday 10th may
Theatre: THE SMALLEST STORY EVER TOLD
'A "comedy-drama about how to survive grief" [that] displays everything that is so joyous about living… This is truly a remarkable new work from RJ Flynn.'
★★★★★ Francesca Mepham, Carn’s Theatre Passion 'Sometimes it is the smallest stories which can pack the largest emotional punch. In a single hour I laughed and shed a tear and really felt a part of the family’s drama. It truly feels like it is a story told from the heart. Excellent.' ★★★★ Rachael Simmons, Everything Theatre 'From horrifying to hilarious… playing arpeggios with the audience’s emotions, interspersed with sudden flashes of utter genius, where they combine all the notes into one great mis-matched chord.' The Berwick Advertiser |
The Smallest Story Ever Told is the newest play from Tideline Runners following on from 2022’s much-loved Why Henry Is SO Weird.
Starring Sophie Armstrong (Summerland, BBC’s All Together Now) and Gary Robson (Why Henry Is SO Weird, One More Kiss) as Amy and Charlie Donnelly, the darlings of the children’s modern literary scene whose lives are thrown into chaos when Amy is diagnosed with Young Onset Mixed Dementia. On the first Christmas following her death, Charlie is forced to reckon with his grief before it destroys him. He chooses to relive his life in reverse, watching his time with Amy and their family backwards from its tragic end to its humble beginning, all the time watching Amy grow younger, more hopeful and healthier. RJ Flynn, author of The Words in the Wires, Why Henry Is SO Weird and Hidden in this Room, revisits his 2015 one-act play The Smallest Story Ever Told and imbues the world of its protagonists with a deeper focus, a greater mastery of its subject matter, and a whole lot more soul than the beloved (albeit truncated) original. Doors: 7pm / 7:30pm start Tickets: £12 general admission / £10 concessions Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
Friday 12th MaY
Mickey 9s
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Post -funk evil disco...
Anybody who knows the Scottish music scene will tell you that Mickey 9s are one of the most exciting bands to see live. The irreverent four-piece from Glasgow combine elements of dance, punk and disco into a blistering, genre-defying groove that sends crowds into a frenzy. Previous Best Live Act Winners at the Scottish Alternative Music Awards. They are well known for their iconic music videos too. 2023 will see Mickey 9s take their incredible live show on the road to support the release of their third and The Scottish Album of the Year Award 2022 Eligible album, Modern Kunst. Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £13 advance / £15 on the door Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
saturday 13th may
The springsteen sessions
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After their epic gig at MacArts in May 2022, the gang are back by popular demand!
Singer/frontman Dougie Robertson founded The Springsteen Sessions in 2014 and they have gone from strength to strength ever since. Back to playing to large and enthusiastic audiences up and down the UK The Springsteen Sessions have now totally re-branded - retaining the all-important frontman - and have added a complete revamp of the entire band introducing some of the best experienced musicians around. These guys are all huge fans of “The Boss” and their devotion to replicating the authentic sounds of the “Main Man” and the E-Street Band is obvious. Doors: 7:30pm /8pm start Tickets: £15 advance / £17 on the door Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
sunday 14th may
THEATRE: who killed My father
by Édouard Louis. translated by Lorin Stein
‘Confronts the role of rampant class inequality.’
★★★★ The Scotsman ‘Powerful staging of Édouard Louis’ devastating third book … [with] an honest, engaging solo performance.’ ★★★★ The Stage |
Following a sell-out debut, theatre company surrogate returns with Who Killed My Father. Growing up gay in a small town in France, Édouard endured the violence and homophobia of his alcoholic, right-wing father, a factory worker.
In 2000, his father suffered an accident in the workplace which left him bed-bound and on morphine for the pain. Now, Édouard confronts his father, uncovering a startling connection between political decisions and his father’s broken body. Édouard’s anger transforms to compassion as his father’s capacity for violence appears to be the product of years of social brutality. Louis sets about rewriting the recent social and political history of France, exposing how the consequences of neo-liberal ‘reforms’ inflicted on the lives of workers are lived out in their own bodies. Who Killed My Father is an intimate declaration of love from son to father and a defiant call for social justice. Doors: 7pm / 7:30pm start Tickets: £13 general admission / £10 concession / £8 student Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
FRiday 19th May
Broken REcords
'Singer Jamie Sutherland has such an open, trustworthy voice, while the music matches his honest emotional heft' Q
'Intense and downright enjoyable listening experience' Clash 'Carefully crafted songwriting' The Line of Best Fit |
After a decade and a half of solid US and European touring, two albums on the legendary 4AD label; Until The Earth begins To Part (2009), Let Me Come Home (2010) and two more on the band’s own J Sharp Records imprint, Weights & Pulleys (2014) and What We Might Know (2018) Broken Records return with the band’s traditional cinematic, soaring sound. Empowering, hopeful and euphoric.
Doors: 7pm / 7:30pm start Tickets: £12 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
saturday 20th may
WILDFIRE
+ dread persephone + Dead bolt
friday 26th may
Ruth LYON: Access all areas
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Ruth Lyon, from the United Kingdom, and Eliza Hull, from Australia, met in Austin at SXSW 2022. They connected over the shared experience of being disabled artists working in the music industry, and the pressures, barriers but also empowerment that comes with it. In 2023 they are working together on Access All Areas, a cultural exchange, touring the UK and Australia, performing, and sharing their experience with audiences, venues and aspiring artists.
Ruth Lyon, influenced by acts such as Fiona Apple, Aldous Harding and Regina Spektor, explores themes of self-doubt, insecurity, emotional masochism, and the weight of arbitrary expectations - all unravelling through offbeat, sophisticated chamber pop and anti-folk, commanded by her soulful vocals and witty yet raw lyricism. Ruth is also an ardent advocate for the Disabled community through her work as an ambassador for Attitude Is Everything - a charity that aims to improve accessibility for Deaf and Disabled people in live music; Lyon herself has been a wheelchair user since the age of 21. Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £15 advance / £5 (low income) Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
saturday 27th may
Susie Mccabe: Femme fatality
'She should be considered a national treasure.' The Herald
‘The best story telling comic in the UK right now’ The List |
Following a hugely successful and critically acclaimed run at this year’s Edinburgh Festival, Susie McCabe is back on the road!
On the back of her TV debuts on Have I Got News for You, Frankie Boyle’s New World Order and Question Time, Susie also had a sell out Edinburgh Fringe run and supported Kevin Bridges, Frankie Boyle and Jason Manford on their tours. Now she is back with her brand new show, Femme Fatality. Susie's last show, Born Believer sold out its Fringe run, receiving multiple rave reviews and this show is set to be another barn stormer of an evening! With her razor-sharp punchlines she is currently one of the country's best storytellers and this will be a show not to be missed. Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £15 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
Sunday 28th May
Perfect Parachute Picture + TASH
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One of Sheffield's most prominent up and coming rock acts in recent times, Perfect Parachute Picture are armed with a catalogue of juggernaut riffs, pounding rhythms and wonderfully catchy melodies. Edward James (bass) and Kyle Ernest (drums and vocals) are the duo that make up this exciting two piece unit, taking huge strides throughout the UK rock scene with a string of distinguished, thumping singles, and a live show leaving audiences clambering to see the band again.
These northern riff makers definitely aren’t ones to leave on in the background. Their debut 2021 EP 'White Walls' was played by the likes of BBC Radio 6 Music, Radio X, Amazing Radio, local BBC Introducing shows as well as in the USA, France, the Netherlands, Canada, Australia and South America. The band's single 'Idea' also picked up support from Spotify who featured the song on their 'All New Rock', 'New Punk Tracks' playlist. Their 2022 single ‘Don’t Bow’ landed the band their first ever Radio 1 play on Jack Saunders’ evening show, and was John Kennedy’s Radio X X-Posure ‘Hot One’ being played four times in two weeks. For Fans of: Queens of the Stone Age, Biffy Clyro, Royal Blood Doors: 7pm / 7:30pm start Tickets: £8 advance / £10 on the door Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
thursday 1st june
CRIME VIRAL: Serial killers and psychopaths Night
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Hosted by serial killer expert and research psychologist Cheish Merryweather. Featuring the stories of Dennis Nilsen, Jeffrey Dahmer, Mary Ann Cotton, Joanna Dennehy, Richard Kuklinski, Beverly Allitt, Richard Chase, Ted Bundy and more.
Based on psychiatric evaluations, courtroom transcripts, witness testimonies, crime scene evidence and criminal profiles; Merryweather details what goes on in the mind of the most notorious cold-blooded killers. Topics include: - Serial killer motivations - Serial killer couples - Where are you on the psychopath spectrum? - How to defend yourself against a psychopath - Your brain on true crime! - Where did all the serial killers go? - Seven Stages of evil Doors: 7pm / 7:30pm start Tickets: £18 / £8 NHS workers and students Recommended 16+ |
sunday 4th june
Gary meikle: 2.5
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'Most blurbs are written in the 3rd person so they’ll be like ‘Gary is this, Gary is that, you can expect this from Gary’ well I’m writing this myself so, this will be MY 3rd show, or 2.5 as I’m calling it.
I’ve had several top professionals and industry people tell me over the years that I shouldn’t swear as much on stage, that I shouldn’t be as crude or as edgy as I am but guess what, they likely don’t know that as a kid growing up in the care system I was told that I’d be either dead or in jail by the time I was 30 so I tend not to listen to others and do things my way, it’s gotten me this far after all. So, this show will be a continued celebration of me being me which in the current climate of cancel culture we find ourselves in could be seen as risky but f*** it.' Doors: 7pm / 8pm start Tickets: £22 Over 18s only |
thursday 15th june
SKIDS
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Due to unprecedented demand the Skids are making a return to Mac Arts. The band are celebrating the launch of Destination Dusseldorf.
Recorded in 2022, the brand new studio album from Scotland's legendary Skids, will be released in March 2023. Collaborating with incredible artists like Youth, Hugh Cornwell and Martin Metcalfe - all fans of the band. Creativity born from friendship and respect lies at the heart of this new album which we think will be one of our finest recordings. Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £25.50 in advance / £28 on the door Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
SATURDAy 8th JULY
GARY FAULDS: FRONTIER
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Frontier is Gary’s journey into the unknown, will we find aliens on Mars? Can I get Turkey teeth? Will I ever call my Mum’s boyfriend Da? Can I do yoga without farting? Will the yoga lassie let me back after fart gate?
An action-packed hour of relatable comedy from Gary who just wants to be a better version of himself, but what steps need to be taken for that to happen? How do normal people live the life of these six pack Spartan gods on Instagram who have never have bad days or bits of donner meat stuck to their teeth? Buy tickets now, come to the gig, turn off your phone and get lost in his madness. You never know, you too could one day be an 18 stone morbidly obese scheme boy, crippled with anxiety and stretch marks. Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £25 Recommended 18+ |
saturday 5th august
Callum beattie SOLD OUT
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Regular Music Presents...
Callum has been hard at music for almost half his life, making his own chances, taking chances and, for sure, being a chancer. The Edinburgh-born singer-songwriter has progressed from bad gigs in pubs, to where he is now: a singer-songwriter with a punchy, rousing, emotive and gloriously catchy debut album that scored a No.1 in The Official Scottish Albums Chart. After residing in London and Berlin for a few years, Callum has decided to move back to Scotland. His new material is a collection of songs clawed from the raw stuff of existence, nostalgic patriotism and bleeding love. Doors: 7pm / 8pm start Tickets: SOLD OUT Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
wednesday 16th august
Madama Butterfly performed by OPERA bohemia
'Opera Bohemia are Opera's perfect evangelists as they sound their song around Scotland' The Student Newspaper
'This company is a wealth of extraordinary fresh talent' The List 'A breath of fresh air on the operatic circuit' The Courier |
Opera Bohemia, Scotland’s professional touring company, returns to MacArts with John Leo Wilkie’s acclaimed chamber production of Puccini’s masterpiece, Madama Butterfly. A star cast is led by Scottish soprano Catriona Clark, a favourite with Opera Bohemia audiences and already highly acclaimed in the role of Cio-Cio-San.
Other cast members include former Scottish Opera Emerging Artist Louise Collett, Alexander Gibson, Opera School graduates Cameron Mitchell and Seumas Begg, and American baritone Whitaker Mills, who recently made his Metropolitan Opera debut. This tale of love, sacrifice and heartbreak promises to be a memorable night for opera lovers and newcomers alike. The production is performed in a special arrangement for piano (Andrew Brown) and violin (Colm O Braoin) and sung in Italian with English surtitles. Running time approximately 2 hours including interval. Doors: 7pm / 7:30pm start Tickets: £18 general admission / £16 concession (over 60) / £8 student or low income Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
thursday 14th september
martin mcaloon (prefab sprout)
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A Selective Agency Presentation...
Martin McAloon will be performing a large selection of hit songs from Prefab Sprout's extensive archive celebrating over 40 years of his brother, Paddy McAloon's writing. This will be a rare opportunity to hear these incredible songs performed in their natural state. Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £22.50 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
wednesday 23rd august
Clearwater creedence revival
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Selling out at venues all over the world, Clearwater Creedence Revival feature road-hardened players who, collectively have performed with – Stax legend Steve Cropper, Big Country, Denny Laine (Wings, Moody Blues), Eric Haydocks Hollies, Animals and Friends, Alan Silson (Smokie), Wayne Fontana’s Mindbenders and more.
Together, they are the best celebration of the music of Creedence Clearwater Revival and Fogerty you’re ever likely to see – and a band selling out all over the world, as audiences in Germany, Israel, Russia, Holland, Scandinavia, UK and more will attest! A tribute band like no other. Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £20 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
THURSDAY 24th august
fleetwood bac
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FLEETWOOD BAC are the world’s first and best Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band, endorsed by Mick Fleetwood himself, the only Mac tribute to authentically replicate the classic ‘Rumours’ line-up.
The sound, the look, the mystical atmosphere and on-stage chemistry are all portrayed with the passion and energy that got the seal of approval from ‘Big Daddy’ Mick, and built up an excellent reputation amongst Mac fans through numerous tours, festival appearances, corporate events and TV and radio slots all over the U.K. and Europe. Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £18 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
saturday 9th september
Stories of scotland with bruce fummey
'This man exudes infectious warmth and humour' Chortle
'Put simply, he is a very, very funny man' The Skinny 'His timing is split second and his ad-lib ability is amazing' Daily Record |
Bruce spent fifteen years performing Scottish history-themed stand-up shows around the world. He’s spent the last years asking YouTube audiences to "Let me tell you his story” as his hugely popular YouTube channel, Scotland History Tours, amassed an incredible 170,000 subscribers.
Film and TV have followed, and in 2023 he’ll be coming to The Borders with stories and jokes in a live show, Stories of Scotland. Nominated for many comedy awards and named Scottish Comedian of the year in 2014, Bruce brings his chirpy, occasionally near-the-bone but self-deprecating style to spice up stories from Scotland’s past. Doors: 7pm / 8pm start Tickets: £15 Recommended for ages 18+ |
saturday 23rd september
The complete stone roses
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The Complete Stone Roses are one of the UK’s most well-known, most seen and most successful tribute bands. Selling out venues across the UK and Ireland regularly, they have helped carry on the music of one of the UKs most influential bands- The Stone Roses. The Stone Roses played a pivotal role in the history of the UKs indie music scene. Famous hits like Fool’s Gold, I Am The Resurrection and I Wanna be Adored are as recognisable now as they were in the heyday of Madchester and the Hacienda, the cultural icons from which the original band were born. The Complete Stone Roses play to acclaim from fans themselves, the press, and even original Stone Roses band members. Stone Roses bass player Mani says 'they do our songs real justice. At times, they play even better than we did. Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £15 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
thursday 12th october
Weegie hink ae that
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From sketches to songs aboot aw things Scottish, come see these wee comical dafties dae what they dae best! Fast-paced, witty comedy with clever twists on Scottish culture! The Weegie Boys will have ye creasing yersel from start to finish!
Starring Gregor Mackay, Conor Hardie and Elliot Hanigan, the Glasgow based comedy sketch trio Weegie Hink Ae That? have proved an undeniable hit both on stage and online, having sold out Edinburgh Fringe runs, headlined numerous comedy clubs and venues across the country and launched numerous viral sketches via BBC Scotland. 'Original, and frequently hysterically funny... these are highly intelligent writers and performers.' The Reviews Hub Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £15 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
friday 13th october
wrest: UK TOUR 2023
'Fans of Frightened Rabbit and The National will love Edinburgh's wrest' Jim Gellatly
'Scotland's most exciting emerging live act' BBC Radio Shetland An emotional adventure you have to experience Independent Music News |
xfire live presents...
After sold-out shows across Europe and at iconic venues St Lukes and Liquid Rooms in Scotland, wrest return to MacArts in Galashiels for a special headline show. Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £14 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
saturday 4th November
PYGMY TWYLYTE PERFORM THE SONGS OF FRANK ZAPPA
+ THE SENSATIONAL ALEX HARVEY EXPERIENCE
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Pygmy Twylyte bring the music of Frank Zappa back to MacArts!
So prolific was Frank Zappa's output, that it is nearly impossible to present a representative sample of his work in just one concert. Over the course of his life, and since his death in 1993, over one hundred official Zappa albums have been released, alongside countless bootlegs. These range from 60’s psychedelia with the Mothers of Invention, Jazz and Rock material tinged with Zappa’s own inimitable spin, through to orchestral compositions performed by the London Symphony Orchestra, among others. Navigating the vast Zappa oeuvre then is no mean feat, but Scotland’s Pygmy Twylyte have embraced the challenge with gusto. Since their inception in 2018, the band have selected a core body of classic material, complemented with a rotating offering of more obscure cuts, and blasted this to delighted audiences across the UK. With guitars, keyboards, saxes and multiple vocalists at their disposal, the band has a (stink)foot planted in the camp of several of Zappa’s most memorable touring line-ups. Head down to nod along to rock numbers, lose count during jazzy interludes (after all, it’s not dead – it just smells funny) and evade the infamous Frunobulax! Special guests opening the show will be The Sensational Alex Harvey Experience, the UK's number one tribute to the legendary The Sensational Alex Harvey Band! Hailing from Alex's home town of Glasgow, the band have gained a reputation for their authentic high energy show, with original SAHB guitarist Zal Cleminson noting "Best SAHB tribute by far!". Two outstanding bands playing the music of two of rocks most unique icons in an evening not to be missed! Doors: 7pm / 7:30pm start Tickets: £13 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
saturday 11th November
JUST RADIOHEAD
So authentic … not a beat missed.'
'Amazing set … your performance was the highlight of my weekend' 'Having never seen Radiohead live I was really excited to catch your set … and wasn’t disappointed!' 'Fair play lads, you sound fantastic!' |
Just Radiohead are the UK’s leading Radiohead tribute band, replicating and performing the astonishing music of one the nation’s most influential, versatile, and talented bands. Showcasing tracks from the explosive post-grunge debut of ‘Pablo Honey’ through to the beautiful and most recent art-rock album release ‘A Moon Shaped Pool’, the band captures a memento at each stop along the entire majestic journey ensuring that every minor detail is respected and authentic, while leaving the audience feeling like they are once again revelling ‘back in the day’ accompanied by Radiohead.
A back catalogue now spanning four decades means fans have rarely had the opportunity to see Radiohead perform their favourite songs live … … step forward Just Radiohead!!! Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £13 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
saturday 2nd december
TRUCKER DIABLO
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Their 4th visit to Mac Arts- the Irish Rockers and all-round top blokes Trucker Diablo are back in town!
Described by Classic Rock Magazine as 'Stadium Pub Rock', the band have shared the stage with Foo Fighters, Black Stone Cherry, Ricky Warwick, Thunder and many more. The one thing you do expect from Trucker is big riffs, big choruses and big performances, and their most recent album "Tail End of a Hurricane" doesn’t disappoint! From the sing-along 'Rock Kids of the 80s', the energy of 'Insects', the short sharp punch of 'Slow Dance' or the laid-back tale, 'Woodstock to Vietnam', you’ll know you’ve opened your front door to see the Big Truck parked up outside, engine running, exhaust fumes pumping out the pipe, door laying open invitingly... Doors: 7:30pm / 8pm start Tickets: £13 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
saturday 16th december
killer instinct (tribute to the killers)
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Join us for a big Christmas night out with Killer Instinct, Scotland’s #1 tribute to The Killers!
After the live show we will keep the party going, playing the biggest indie hits from 1990s/2000s Doors: 7pm / 8pm start (disco after gig until 12am) Tickets: £12.50 Over 14s: 14-16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18 |
