Whats on
The Nutcracker, Birnam Arts Centre, Birnam (29 November)
Adapted from the story by Hoffman, the play takes place in a toyshop in 19th century Germany where Zachariah the toymaker is hard at work. Reality gradually gives way to dream-like fantasy as the audience is led into a series of amazing adventures. The imaginative use of toys, automata, puppets and Christmas traditions makes the show particularly magical and, although aimed at young audiences, it is vividly accessible to all ages. Music by Tchaikovsky, arranged by Andrew Dodge. Following the show, the company will lead a workshop in which you will be able to make a traditional toy or puppet to take home with you, based on the theme of the Nutcracker story. Suitable for children aged 5 years and above. Please book in advance for this as places are limited.
Wolftrain, Bankfoot Inn, Bankfoot (29 November)
Wolftrain are a 6-piece Blues Band from Perthshire. A mixture of long, hard experience and bright, new talent, Wolftrain is a Band with horns that give them their unique sound. Their style is authentic Blues, Rock and Roll, Swing and also some original material. They "Boogie with the Best" and over the years have supported Jack Bruce, Dr Feelgood, The Blues Band and Otis Grand.
Christmas Craft Market, King Edward Street, Perth (29-30 November)
Join in the festive atmosphere at Perth's Christmas Craft Markets. 30 stalls selling local crafts such as wood turning, jewellery, chocolates, paintings, liqueurs and leather goods - ideal for Christmas presents or as a treat for yourself!
Scottish Brass Band Championships, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (29-30 November)
The Scottish Open Brass Band Championship returns to Perth Concert Hall along with the Scottish Challenge Shield Contest and Scottish Challenge Cup Contest. 32 bands take part in the Saturday event with the Scottish Open bands playing the set test piece ' St.Magnus' by Kenneth Downie and the other Shield & Cup bands playing an own Choice test piece. It all starts at 9am. On Sun 30 Nov at 10.30am the ever expanding Scottish Youth Brass Band Championships take place with around 17 bands playing an entertainment concert programme in four sections. The best of Scottish young brass players perform to the highest standard. The Scottish Open is again is supported by Besson Musical Instruments and organised by the Scottish Brass Band Association. For the first time the event will be video streamed throughout the world on the internet. A great weekend of brass music is guaranteed.
St Andrew's Night Family Ceilidh, Angus Hotel, Blairgowrie (30 November)
With Nicol McLaren & the Glencraig Dance Band.
Wild Harvest Food & Drink Fair, Scottish Crannog Centre, Kenmore (30 November)
Celebrate Autumn Gold at our Celtic Food and Drink gathering, featuring samples of hot cordials, Scottish wines, spit roast beast, clay baked fish, nutty breads, and spreads, authentic soups, and more. Family hour: 11am-12noon. Cook your own crannog pancakes! Tickets valid all day. Archery, pot making and other activities while you wait to taste. Crannog tour included.
The Dyer's Workshop, Scottish Crannog Centre, Kenmore (30 November)
Learn about native dye plants, how to use them to extract colour and create your own dyed swatches to take home. Includes Crannog tour. Booking Essential.
Lunchtime Concert - Beethoven Continued, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (1 December)
Beethoven's Pathétique Sonata is the centre piece of this concert continuing Alexander Janiczek (violin) and Llyr Williams' (piano) acclaimed Beethoven journey.
The Monday Night Thing - Al Pitcher: Tiny Triumphs, Perth Theatre, Perth (1 December)
The Monday Night Thing is a series of intimate weekly performances in the lush surroundings of Redrooms in Perth Theatre and the perfect venue to see some superb acts up close and personal. This non award winning comic applauds himself each day he bathes and wants to share his triumphs and hear yours. From humble beginnings in Huddersfield to an upbringing in New Zealand and now a life in Sweden, come laugh and celebrate your own existence and cheer those small moments we take for granted. All Monday Night Shows are for ages 14+.
Babes in the Wood, Blairgowrie Town Hall, Blairgowrie (1-7 December)
The Blairgowrie Players present Babes in the Wood.
Perth Chamber Music Concert, Perth Museum & Art Gallery, Perth (2 December)
Featuring the Illuminati Wind Quartet, flute, oboe, clarinet and bassoon, performing works by Janacek, Bernstein, Francaix and Bridge.
Russian Patriarchate Choir of Moscow, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (2 December)
There's nothing quite like the authentic sound of a Russian male voice choir - and this is one of the very best. They run the full range from the deeply (literally - Russian basses can hit the bottom notes like no other nation) spiritual orthodox church music then lighten up with a little Slavic folk music.
Perth Amateur Operatic Society - Christmas Carols, Perth Theatre, Perth (2-3 December)
Soak up the Christmas spirit in the intimacy of Redrooms.
Runrig, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (3 December)
Runrig round off a great year with a run of Scottish dates following an extensive tour of the UK, Denmark and Germany. 2008 also included a sellout concert at Edinburgh Castle, a number one music DVD in both the UK and Denmark and the launch of their own single malt!
ChildLine Christmas Concert, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (4 December)
Talented musicians and singers from Perth & Kinross schools join together for the tenth annual ChildLine Christmas Concert in Perth to provide a joyous evening of Christmas music, carols and popular classics. Organised by ChildLine in Scotland/NSPCC and Perth & Kinross Council's Education Services. All proceeds will help ChildLine answer more calls from children and young people in Scotland in danger or distress.
Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (5 December)
Choral symphony, opera, cantata or, as Berlioz termed it, 'dramatic legend'. The Damnation of Faust is all of these things, and a marvel to hear in the flesh. Occasions to experience Berlioz' masterwork are all too rare, and with a renowned Berlioz specialist in RSNO Music Director Stéphane Denève, as well as the very finest soloists, this will be an evening to remember.
The Snow Queen, Perth Theatre, Perth (5 December-3 January 2009)
Based on the enchanting story by Hans Christian Andersen, this is a delightful Christmas adventure for the whole family. The wicked Snow Queen smashes her evil mirror and blows the specks and splinters around the world. A piece of the mirror hits young Kay, who the Snow Queen takes to her Ice Palace at the very top of the world. She waits for Kay's heart to turn to ice so her dastardly plan to make winter last forever can be fulfilled. Gerda, Kay's best friend, must journey north and brave many dangers in her attempt to save Kay and break winter's grip. Leading us through terrifying ordeals, as well as endless fun and nonsense, Gerda never gives up. Along the way she meets talking ravens, the evil Cobweb Spider, a prince and princess, a band of robbers, greedy polar bears and a brave reindeer who carries Gerda across the arctic wastes. Advisory: although this is a family show there are scary baddies - not for the under 5s or the very nervous!
British Heart Foundation - Santa Jog, North Inch, Perth (6 December)
This December British Heart Foundation (BHF) Scotland is going Christmas crazy and organising a Hearts First Santa Jog in Perth. This is part of a series of Santa Jogs happening all over the UK. Join in the festive fun and get your heart pumping while raising funds to keep more vulnerable hearts beating.
Scone Palace Christmas Weekend, Scone Palace, by Perth (6-7 December)
Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 December is once again Santa's Weekend. On the Sunday, the Cairngorm Reindeer, always popular with adults and children alike, will be coming south to help Scone's very own Santa with his Christmas duties. Santa will of course be receiving his guests and visitors will be entertained on both days with live music in the magnificent setting of Scone Palace. ‘Portray’, a brother and sister photography team based in Perthshire, will be in attendance on both Saturday and Sunday to photograph individuals or family groups in their mobile studio within the Palace. There will also be a ‘Highland Hog Roast’ on the Sunday for visitors to savour. All hogs are home reared and from traditional breeds.
Christmas in Dunkeld & Birnam (6 December)
Santa and his reindeer come to Dunkeld and Birnam. Procession starts at 1pm from Birnam and proceeds to the Cross in Dunkeld for 1.30pm. Also includes Puppet Show in the Birnam Arts Centre (11am - tickets on sale from Sweet Words 01350 727918), Christmas Storytelling with Kenneth Steven at 2.30pm and in Dunkeld Cathedral, Handbell ringing (1.30pm-2.30pm) and Carol Sevice (3pm).
St Johnstone v Queen of the South, McDiarmid Park, Perth (6 December)
St Johnstone FC who play their home games at the 10,673 capacity all-seater McDiarmid Park, Perth are currently playing in the Bell's Scottish League Division 1. In December & January, Saints have four home league games against Queen of the South (6 December); Morton (13 December); Clyde (27 December); and Dunfermline (24 January 2009).
Perth Farmers Market, King Edward Street, Perth (6 December)
At Perth Farmers' Market on the first Saturday of each month there is an abundance of fresh ingredients and quality products. From slabs of fresh red meat and slippery oysters to green, leafy veg to home made cakes, pies and wines - you will find everything you need to create delicious meals. If you're not sure what you're after, need to be inspired or want to know more about what you are eating, have a chat with our stallholders who can advise on ideas, cooking methods and traceability. From favourite comfort foods for the family to new and exciting recipe trends for dinner parties and friends, with Perth Farmers' Market, you really can make a meal of it.
Scottish Fiddle Orchestra, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (6 December)
The Scottish Fiddle Orchestra is one of Scotland's foremost traditional music organisations. The Orchestra was formed in 1980, deriving its origins from Fiddlers’ Rallies which were — and are — held throughout the country. The aim was to have a group of approximately 150 keen and interested musicians who would play together consistently, provide a series of concerts in the main Scottish cities and work together to create the finest possible standard of orchestral fiddle playing without detracting from the strong traditional strains of our music.
The Original Windows Live Concert, The Ship Inn, Perth (6 December)
Original classic rock band inspired by the sounds of The Beatles, Kinks, Stones and Zombies.
Perth Choral Society - Messiah, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (7 December)
Perth Choral Society's debut concert in Perth Concert Hall in December 2005 attracted a capacity audience for their performance of Handel's much loved "Messiah". This wonderful oratorio has stood the test of time and its popularity is perennial. It has been performed by more varied groups of singers than any other English oratorio - from a choir to just sixteen singers to the famous recording by the Huddersfield Choral Society. Our performance will be by over 90 singers and four soloists, who are: Emma Smith - Soprano, Frances McCafferty - Contralto, Hugh Rhys-Evans - Tenor and Paul Keohone - Bass. The Angus Chamber Orchestra accompanies conductor Peter Rutterford. This concert is in aid of MacMillian Cancer Support.
Lunchtime Concert with the Hebrides Ensemble, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (8 December)
Scotlands' leading chamber ensemble thrilled audiences last season when they joined forces with Colin Currie. They return with a characteristically eclectic programme featuring the music of JS Bach among others.
Dunkeld & Birnam Live Arts - RSAMD Christmas Concert, Dunkeld Cathedral, Dunkeld (9 December)
Christmas Concert given by soloists, chorus and orchestra of the RSAMD, Glasgow.
Dollar Academy Annual Carol Concert, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (10 December)
Celebrate the joy of Christmas with the Choirs and Orchestra of Dollar Academy.
The Mirror, Birnam Arts Centre, Birnam (11-12 December)
Look at yourself in the mirror. What do you see? Someone who wants to cheat, lie and hurt? Blame the children. Blame the parents. Blame the grandparents. Blame Blame Blame. The time has come to stop blaming and look in the mirror. The year is 2030. The youth of the world are feral. The citizens of the world are afraid of their own offspring. After years of experiment Dr A and Dr B have a formula for change. All they need to do is begin to administer the wonder drug, which will alter the personalities of the wild youth. Will the youngsters look in the mirror before they are changed forever? The Mirror was created from the ideas of the participants and scripted by Angela Ness.
Chansons Christmas Concert, Glamis Castle, Glamis (13 December)
Enjoy an evening of Christmas Carols performed by Chansons Choir in the stunning setting of the 17th century Drawing Room, with refreshments served in the Victorian dining Room during the interval.
Crieff & Strathearn Monthly Market, James Square, Crieff (13 December)
Enjoy a day in the pleasant country town of Crieff and visit the monthly country market. The markets will feature a wide variety of stall-holders, from traditional farmers’ market produce such as organic meat, jams & pickles to crafts and giftware, including photography, glass & jewellery. Also with cooking demonstrations provided by local restaurateurs.
A Classic West End Christmas, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (14 December)
West End stars Lisa Stokke (Mamma Mia, Guys & Dolls) and Mark O’Malley (Jesus Christ Superstar, Les Misérables) with the Classic West End Orchestra. From Porter and Gershwin to Sondheim and Lloyd Webber hear seasonal hits from the shows to warm the cockles of your heart. A wonderful selection of songs from a hundred years of the best in musical theatre skilfully entwined with everyone’s Christmas favourites. Includes Guys and Dolls, Cabaret, Cats, Annie, Chicago and much, much more...
Kings of Swing Christmas Special, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (17 December)
Kings of Swing Big Band put a little big band heat into Christmas joined by the lovely Jacqui Dankworth for some seasonal standards from the Songbook.
Scottish Ensemble - Green, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (17 December)
Americana is the theme for the December concert. Rich and powerful musical language and a strong sense of drama have made Scottish-American composer Thea Musgrave one of the most respected and exciting contemporary composers in the Western world. This world premiere celebrates her 80th birthday.
Peter Pan, Birnam Arts Centre, Birnam (17-18 December)
Owing to the increased popularity of the Birnam Arts Ballet School Christmas production, 2008’s specially choreographed performance of Peter Pan will run for 2 evenings. The magical tale will unfold by dancers of our Ballet School ranging from ages 4 to adults. Choreography and Tuition by Emma Gray.
Carol Service, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (18 December)
Presented by Perth Action of Churches Together. Speaker - Rev David Chillingworth, Bishop of St Andrew’s, Dunkeld and Dunblane. Praise led by a special “Churches Together” choir under the direction of Craig Dennis. PACT is an association of 28 local church congregations and religious organisations established in 1963.
Chansons Christmas Carol Concert, Glamis Castle, Glamis (20 December)
Enjoy an evening of Christmas Carols performed by Chansons Choir in the stunning setting of the 17th century Drawing Room, with refreshments served in the Victorian dining Room during the interval. Booking Essential.
Christmas Dance with the Dave Amos Band, Birnam Arts Centre, Birnam (20 December)
The Dave Amos Band are real movers and shakers, and they’ll have the same effect on you for a fantastic Christmas night out. The band will take you on a musical journey, from the sixties to present, with material from Stevie Wonder, Kool and the gang and D’Angelo. Dress to impress, throw your inhibitions out of the window, and we’ll see you on the 20th to help add a sparkle to your festive period.
Perth Farmers Market, King Edward Street, Perth (20 December)
At Perth Farmers' Market on the first Saturday of each month there is an abundance of fresh ingredients and quality products. From slabs of fresh red meat and slippery oysters to green, leafy veg to home made cakes, pies and wines - you will find everything you need to create delicious meals. If you're not sure what you're after, need to be inspired or want to know more about what you are eating, have a chat with our stallholders who can advise on ideas, cooking methods and traceability. From favourite comfort foods for the family to new and exciting recipe trends for dinner parties and friends, with Perth Farmers' Market, you really can make a meal of it.
Christmas Craft Market, King Edward Street, Perth (21 December)
Join in the festive atmosphere at Perth's Christmas Craft Markets. 30 stalls selling local crafts such as wood turning, jewellery, chocolates, paintings, liqueurs and leather goods - ideal for Christmas presents or as a treat for yourself!
The Bethlehem Experience, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (21 December)
Leave the shopping behind and experience the real Christmas! Starting with a Victorian street scene, complete with roasted chestnuts and carol singers, followed by an indoor nativity presentation with costumed actors and live camels finishing with a professional performance of Christmas music and the introduction of our special guests in the auditorium. A real X-mas Factor event at Christmas!
The Original Windows Live Concert, Greyfriars, Perth (21 December)
Original classic rock band inspired by the sounds of The Beatles, Kinks, Stones and Zombies.
The Singing Kettle presents the Christmas Toy Shop, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (23-24 December)
The Singing Kettle's Cilla, Artie, Gary and Kevin have taken over the toyshop and are expecting a big rush for Christmas. Unfortunately the toy deliveries have been delayed. When they eventually arrive they need help to stock the shelves and get ready for Christmas as a mystery guest is due any moment for the grand opening, but we’ve no idea who it can be! Remember to dress in a santa hat.
Hogmanay at Perth Concert Hall, Perth (31 December)
Join us and some fantastic musicians to bring in 2009 with a bang - literally! This year’s show stars one of our very favourite bands, the turbo-charged fiddle-driven thing that is Session A9. Combining a four-fiddle attack with a relentless rhythm section they produce an irresistible sound, unrivalled on the traditional scene. Support this year comes from Orkestra del Sol. Inspired by the great brass band traditions of Eastern Europe, Orkestra del Sol’s music exudes energy and spirit: the swagger of a Balkan wedding band, the vibrancy of a Caribbean festival and the flair of a Latin ballroom. Globally inspired, but distilled in Scotland.
Hogmanay Flambeaux Procession, Comrie (31 December)
Experience one of Scotland's best kept Hogmanay secrets, the traditional Flambeaux Procession in the village of Comrie. Every year in the village square, the midnight bells are heard as the procession of fiery torches, or 'flambeaux', begins, accompanied by music, dancing and fancy dress, for a magical night, which keeps an ancient tradition burning bright. About six weeks in advance, the 8-10 feet flambeaux (Flemish for 'beautiful flames') are made, tied with hessian sacks, and soaked in paraffin. The villagers become excited as preparations commence, and it is considered a great honour to be selected to carry a flambeaux. Come the stroke of midnight on Hogmanay, the village pipe band will lead the procession, weaving its way round the village. After about one hour, the procession returns to the square, where the remains of the flambeaux are thrown into a huge pile, and informal dancing often takes place around the fire. After the fancy dress is judged, the flailing flambeaux are thrown off the nearby bridge into the river, when 'first fitting' begins, and the villagers expect to party until morning.
Blairgowrie Ne'er Day Fun Run, Blairgowrie Town Hall, Blairgowrie (1 January 2009)
The ideal way to start the new year, blow away the cobwebs, meet up with friends and wish them Happy New Year. The race and Fun Run is 3.7 miles and open to anyone up to 90 years of age. There will be prizes up for grabs, with soup and refreshments available at the Town Hall after the race.
Pitlochry New Years Day Afternoon Street Party, Atholl Road, Pitlochry (1 January 2009)
What better way to start the new year than with a shindig bringing locals and visitors together for a ceilidh in the street? Food and refreshments will be available, includes a raffle and live music.
National Youth Orchestra of Scotland New Year Concert, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (4 January 2009)
Cristian Mandeal, Principal Guest Conductor of the Hallé Orchestra, leads the cream of young Scottish musical talent in an eclectic programme of popular classics for NYOS’ annual New Year Concert.
Royal Scottish National Orchestra - Viennese Gala Concert, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (8 January 2009)
Join the RSNO to celebrate the New Year in traditional Viennese style with a fine collection of favourite waltzes, polkas, mazurkas and arias.
Ramada Jarvis Perth Masters, Dewars Centre, Perth (8-11 January 2009)
European curling event which features 32 Olympic, World, European & National Champion teams from all over the globe competing with some new young teams looking to make their mark on the tour.
Winter Words Festival, Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Pitlochry (22-25 January 2009)
The four-day event brings together a great line-up of authors and personalities in a mix of readings, workshops, literary lunches and evening events. For full programme details visit www.pitlochry.org.uk
Swan Lake, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (24 January 2009)
Young ballet company Ballet West features a mix of professional dancers and students in the final stages of their training. This production will be danced by principals Sara-Maria Smith and Jonathon Barton, who have performed nationwide with companies such as Scottish Ballet, English National Ballet and Birmingham Royal Ballet.
Tam O'Shanter, Perth Theatre, Perth (30 January-14 February 2009)
A highly visual, musical and comical imagining of the tale to celebrate Burns 250th anniversary, this is Tam O’Shanter like you’ve never heard it or seen it before. Featuring very short skirts, the undead and several farmyard animals, this is a terrifically amusing and amusingly terrifying night out at the theatre.
Yonex Scottish National Badminton Championships, Bells Sports Centre, Perth (30 January-1 February 2009)
A three day event featuring men's singles, ladies singles and mixed doubles.
Only a selection of Perthshire events has been highlighted above. See also our places to visit section where there is advice on tickets to purchase before you travel.
For more details on any of these events or to view other events coming to Perthshire please visit the website at www.perthshire.co.uk/events
