Storytelling on film: a creative opportunity or a contradiction in terms? According to an old Scottish traveller proverb, stories are told “eye to eye, mind to mind, and heart to heart”. Capturing a storyteller’s performance on camera might suggest a blockage between teller and listener; however, film can bring stories to audiences who otherwise would … Continued

Professor Gary West, Chair of TRACS, has also been appointed Chair in Scottish Ethnology at the University of Edinburgh. The appointment began in August 2015 and Gary has spent his entire career to date at the University of Edinburgh, graduating in 1988 with MA (Hons) in Scottish Ethnology and Scottish Historical Studies, being appointed as … Continued

With Hallowe’en just around the corner, the Scottish International Storytelling Festival has been getting into the spooky spirit with a photoshoot in one of Edinburgh’s most haunted and horrifying locations, the underground vaults. This year, the Festival is championing a return to traditional guising with the Guisers Trail & Family Samhuinn, an afternoon of free … Continued

The staff of the Scottish Storytelling Centre and Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland (TRACS) were saddened to hear the news of the death of Scottish poet Tessa Ransford, OBE. Tessa, aged 77, was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year, and died in hospice, with members of her family at her side. She will be remembered … Continued

The Scottish Storytelling Centre, in association with TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) present five days of storytelling, music and dance which celebrates the unique heritage, culture, community and stories of Edinburgh’s Old Town.                Whether you are a local, a tourist, young or old, there’s enjoyment and entertainment for all as we transport you back … Continued

Showcase & celebrate Scotland’s traditional arts and the characters that have enriched the traditional scene.  Following on from fantastic activities last year, a special weekend of events at the Scottish Storytelling Centre will mark Scotland’s national day. Events marking St Andrew’s Day at the Centre are part of the Year of Homecoming and are supported … Continued

Founding father of the historical novel, Sir Walter Scott, released Waverley 200 years ago, unleashing an enticing tale of adventure, romance, conflict and journey, inviting readers to travel back into a vibrantly illuminated past. Generations have enjoyed his works, countless have been inspired by his penmanship (over 90 operas for example take their cue from … Continued

View the ONLINE PROGRAMME Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs was entertained by storyteller David Francis and clarsach player Rachel Newton as they launched the programme for the 2014 Scottish International Storytelling Festival. The 2014 Scottish International Storytelling Festival begins on 24 October and runs for ten days until the 2 November.  … Continued