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Burns an' a that 2003


A diverse programme of over 60 events taking place both in town centres and rural locations, showcasing contemporary and traditional Scottish culture, ranging from poetry and traditional and classical music to radical new theatre, cabaret and pop.

The opening event will be a Holy Fair to be held in the village of Mauchline on Saturday 3rd May culminating in a firework finale on Sunday 11th May.

There will be an open-air gala concert held in the Fountain Court of Culzean Castle on 9th May. Celebrated soloists will accompany the RSNO including Eddi Reader, Phil Cunningham, Aly Bain and Michael Marra. The highlight of this evening is Patti Smith who is flying in specially from New York to perform.

Fresh Ayr, the main stage at the Low Green, hosts two free concerts of contemporary Scottish music on 10th and 11th May from 2pm. Saturday, is headlined by Deacon Blue, with The Delgados, Grim Northern Social and local bands Sucioperro and Nacoya completing the line up.Sunday’s bill includes Salsa Celtica shaking urban latino beats and Shooglenifty, Coila and Anne Lorne Gilles, complete with the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra and the Dalmellington Brass Band.

The Festival Club in the Cristal Palace at Wellington Square in Ayr hosts four days of poetry, music, debate and dancin’ including Eddi Reader’s 'Burns songs', to 'Complete Burns', with Dr Fred Freeman and Lloyd Cole is billed to perform.

There will be also be drama from various theatre companies and classical music performances in old country houses.

Official Festival Site