Burns festival line-up unveiled

Mar 16 2012 by Stuart Wilson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

A LINE-UP of acclaimed Scottish musicians and bands will perform at this year’s Burns an’ a’ that! Festival.

Organisers have unveiled their bill of talent for the five day event, which runs from Wednesday, May 30 until Sunday, June 3.

It will mark the 11th anniversary of the festival, which is backed by South Ayrshire Council and Visit Scotland.

This year’s programme boasts live music, film, drama, comedy, arts and culture, literature, food and drink and family entertainment.

Heading up the bill will be three nights of live music at Ayr Town Hall, featuring the piano bashing, guitar swinging Tensheds, who will be supported by Scottish songbird, Jill Jackson.

Tribute band The Complete Stone Roses are also heading for the festival, which this year features a one-off finale gig created especially for the event.

Tickets for all shows are already on sale with early-bird deals available.

Councillor Margaret Toner, who has responsibility for arts and culture, insists it will be a festival to remember.

She said: “The festival promises to be the best ever and truly deserves its reputation as the largest arts and cultural festival in south west Scotland.

“I’ve no doubt that Rabbie himself would approve and I’m sure he’ll be there in spirit.”

Other highlights include tartan noir author Tony Black and French artist Olivier Grossetête.

The brand new Loudoun Proud series will feature Bruce Fummey’s hilarious ‘About Tam O’Shanter’, the improvised comedy of Absolute Improv! and an impressive line-up of tributes to the bard plus more.

A range of events will also take place at the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway, featuring a top night of musical entertainment staged by Ayrshire’s Little Fire.

Tickets for Burns an’ a’ That! 2012 can be purchased now from through the festival website at www.burnsfestival.com or by calling 01292 269793.