Make your way to the Midsteeple this Wednesday 26th at 7pm for new insights into the mind of The Bard on his journeys to the Other Place (well, England).
Chris Rollie’s new book ‘Robert Burns in England’ is based on the poet’s original travel journal, owned by the great publishing firm of John Murray for nearly two hundred years. Outside of the Murray family, Rollie is only the third writer to examine and use the journal itself as a source.

This promises to be a fascinating and unusual approach to Robert Burns and his times.
Free admission.

Liz Lochhead becomes Scotland's New Makar

Our congratulations to poet and playwright Liz Lochhead, Scotland's new Makar. Liz's first official duty will be opening the new Burns Museum in Alloway this Friday. She succeeds Edwin Morgan who died in August last year.

Here's Liz blowing up poetry balloons in the company of Hugh Bryden during Poetry Doubles a few years ago.

Ron McKechnie

We are very sorry to hear that Ron McKechnie has died suddenly, early in the morning of Wednesday 5 January. Ron will be well-known to many in writing circles locally - he was a member of the Dumfries Writers' Group, and also of Lockerbie Writers, and a regular presence at literary and poetry events.

His funeral will be on Thursday 13 January - the funeral service will be at 12.15, at Jardine's Chapel of Rest, 23 Terregles St, Dumfries.

Whitman, Burns and Jazz at The CatStrand

There’ll be a truly fresh start to the New Year at The CatStrand next Tuesday 11 January when Dumfries and Galloway Arts brings together renowned American poet George Wallace and increasingly famed Scots poet Rab Wilson. They will take us on a lively poetic voyage inspired by the work of two great poets of the past: Walt Whitman and Robert Burns. Jazz saxophonist Jim Holland will be accompanying the readings, making this a night to remember. Don't miss.

And if you don't want to drive (who does, at the moment?) then bear in mind there will be a community minibus from Dumfries for this event – call Carolyn Yates on 01387 253383 if you want more information.
Tickets: £10/£7 from dgArts 01387 253383 or at the Midsteeple