Perthshire’s most successful musical export, folk legend Dougie MacLean, is backing the efforts to push the area into the national spotlight.
“I’m really excited about Perth’s bid to become UK City of Culture in 2021,” said Dougie who has agreed to play a leading role in the Community Cultural Celebration in the city on Sunday November 20.
“It’s a wonderful wee city in the heart of Scotland with a rich history and a glowing future and it deserves to be celebrated.
“Winning the title would give a real boost to the area. The community cultural celebration on November 20 will be a chance for locals to come together and reveal the amazing creative talent we have in communities across Perthshire and Kinross-shire.
“I look forward to being part of it all.”
Dougie will lead the spectacular grand finale of cultural ‘clans’ at 5pm on Tay Street.
The event will showcase local creativity and is the next step in Perth’s bid to be UK City of Culture 2021.
Hundreds of groups and individuals from across Perth and Kinross will be performing and taking part in creative workshops throughout the day at venues around the city centre.
The Tay Street stage, Horsecross Plaza stage and City Hall stage will host local performers. Perth Museum, the Fair Maid’s House, 2 High Street and a storytelling yurt on the High Street will provide space for creativity from 12noon onwards.
Among those taking part are local bands Longstay, We Came From Wolves and the Crieff High School pipe band. The Perthshire Arts Association, Perthshire Creates and the Perthshire Photographic Society will also display their work.
Provost Liz Grant said:“I’m delighted that we have the support of Dougie MacLean as well as so many local groups and communities for our City of Culture bid.
“We will be welcoming everyone from painters and stained glass artists to writers, singers and bands. It will be a memorable experience for many to share a stage with Dougie at what is sure to be a stirring finish to the day.”
