Dè Tha Dol PROGRAMME
Jill Smith: Zodiac Journey, Sagittarius. On the Coffin Path by the Hag Mountain, Isle of South Harris, 26 November 2023.
Photo: Mhairi Law.
ROOM HIRE
An Lanntair offers two versatile rooms for hire: the Drum Room, accommodating up to 22 people, and the Community Room, suitable for up to 12.
The Drum Room features tiered bench seating and is ideal for events like music practice, discussions, and movement activities, while the Community Room is perfect for smaller meetings or group gatherings. Both rooms are equipped with a TV, HDMI cables, WiFi, and can be set up with office desks or meeting tables as needed.
Our Café Bar can provide drinks and snacks, and both rooms are fully accessible via lift from the ground floor. Attendees and hirers will be directed to the right place and welcomed at our Shop and Reception Desk. Our Art Galleries and displays are also available for browsing as an additional free experience alongside the room hire. Purposes of room hire have included community group meetings, children's parties, drinks receptions, AGMs, VR presentations, public consultations, photoshoots, post-cinema birthday celebrations (yes, you can bring in birthday cakes!), meeting points for trips further afield, rehearsal space, songwriting sessions, book signings, private appointments, interviews, memorial gatherings and filming for documentaries. We are flexible and will support you in your vision for your private or public event. Should you require box office sales we can arrange ticket sales on our website and marketing support via our social media for an admin fee of 5% of ticket sales.
Room hire rates are £25+VAT per hour, with discounts available for charity organisations, local artists, and Gaelic activities. A day rate is available for longer hires. To enquire about availability and to discuss your requirements please contact venue@anlanntair.com
ARTIST GATHERING
EVEN HERE EVEN NOW
An Lanntair's monthly Artist Gatherings are now part of #EvenHereEvenNow, a new, cross-island artist advocacy programme jointly run by An Lanntair, Shetland Arts, Pier Arts Centre and Taigh Chearsabhagh.
Our February event will be a creative workshop and discussion event hosted by Andrew Eaton-Lewis and exploring the themes of the Even Here, Even Now artist manifesto. How can we make life better for island-based artists? How do we advocate for ourselves nationally? You are invited to add your voice to the manifesto - including, if you like, rewriting and reshaping it completely. All opinions welcome! You do not need to be established or professional to come along –everyone is welcome and we are here to support all forms of creativity. Find out more about the Even Here, Even Now manifesto and campaign here: https://www.shetlandarts.org/projects/even-here-even-now
MAIN GALLERY
EÜhibi¶izo Oeoiog: 5m F i 7 Feb
EÜhibi¶izo R¾o: 8 Feb - 1 Ma
VISUAL ARTS
Turas air Crios na Grèine : Zodiac Journey
Turas Gnàthachadh le / A Ritual Journey by Jill Smith
Dealbhaichte le / Photographed by Mhairi Law
In 2023 and 2024, Jill Smith carried out twelve actions across Lewis, Harris, and St. Kilda, following the zodiac calendar. In previous work dating back to the 70’s as a pioneering performance artist with her then husband Bruce Lacey, she used the astrological year, but this was the first time she had done so on her home islands. It was photographed by Mhairi Law and the exhibition combines these images with Jill’s diaries, specially-dyed textiles, and selected objects that were part of this ‘ritual journey’. The work was commissioned as part of its fiftieth birthday celebrations by Fruitmarket in Edinburgh, where in 1975 Jill was the first woman to exhibit.
Jill Smith: Zodiac Journey, Sagittarius. On the Coffin Path by the Hag Mountain, Isle of South Harris, 26 November 2023. Photo: Mhairi Law.
MEZZANINE GALLERY
Exhibition Run: 24 Jan -28 Feb
VISUAL ARTS
VISUAL ARTS
Unmasked Exhibition
In October 24 Members of Catch 23 (a drop in centre for those who have experienced mental health issues) submitted work to the Out of Sight Out of Mind exhibition. The exhibition, held in Summerhall Edinburgh, showed artworks made by 310 people who experience mental health issues. Many of whom responded to the theme of In/Visible. The exhibition was also directed by people who experience mental health issues.
The Catch 23 submission was facilitated by An Lanntair and consisted of 12 large masks which were painted and adorned on the inside to reflect thoughts, ideas and messages that the individuals wished to communicate. The exhibition on the Mezzanine galley is the work that was submitted to the Out of sight Out of Mind show.
Attention All Shipping with Charlie Connelly
WED 7 FEB, 8PM
As the shipping forecast embarks on its second century, Charlie Connelly’s hilarious and informative show brings the quirky broadcst vividly to life, celebrating what he regards as the greatest invention of the modern age.
How did a weather forecast for ships capture the hearts of a nation, from salty old sea dog to insomniac landlubber? How is it possible for ‘rain later’ to be ‘good’? And where the hell is North Utsire?
Let this pacy, moving and hilarious show take you all the way from Viking to South-East Iceland to ensure the shipping forecast will never sound the same again. COMEDY
The Testament of Gideon Mack
Dogstar Theatre Company returns to Scottish stages with an ensemble of 8 actors telling the extraordinary story of Gideon Mack, a Church of Scotland minister who doesn’t believe in God. Then he meets the Devil…
The first-ever stage version of Robertson’s Booker Prize nominated masterpiece.
with
THUR 27 FEB, 8PM
ICONS OF THE SCOTTISH ROOTS CULTURE AND TWO OF THE MOST POWERFUL CONTEMPORARY VOICES TO SING OUT OF IT IN THE LAST QUARTER CENTURY.
1950. William Lee, an American expat in Mexico City, spends his days almost entirely alone, except for a few contacts with other members of the community. His encounter with Eugene Allerton, an expat former soldier, shows him that it might be finally possible to establish an intimate connection.
Thur6Feb,7pm
2h 17mins
NOSFERATU
In the 1830s, estate agent Thomas Hutter travels to Transylvania for a fateful meeting with Count Orlok, a prospective client. In his absence, Hutter’s new bride, Ellen, is left under the care of their friends, Friedrich and Anna Harding. Plagued by horrific visions and an increasing sense of dread, Ellen soon encounters an evil force that’s far beyond her control.
Sat8Feb,8pm Thur13Feb,7pm
MUFASA:THELIONKING
Lost and alone, orphaned cub Mufasa meets a sympathetic lion named Taka, the heir to a royal bloodline. The chance meeting sets in motion an expansive journey of an extraordinary group of misfits searching for their destinies.
Sat8Feb,2pm
WELIVEINTIME
Almut and Tobias are brought together by a surprise encounter that changes their lives. As they embark on a path challenged by the limits of time, they learn to cherish each moment of their unconventional love story.
Fri14Feb,7pm Sat15Feb,5pm
1h 48mins
BABYGIRL Sat15Feb,8pm
A high-powered CEO puts her career and family on the line when she begins a torrid affair with her much younger intern.
CINEMA
Thur20Feb,7pm
1h 30mins
Three-time Olivier Award-winner Sharon D Clarke is joined by Ncuti Gatwa (Doctor Who; Sex Education) in this joyful reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s most celebrated comedy.
While assuming the role of a dutiful guardian in the country, Jack lets loose in town under a false identity. Meanwhile, his friend Algy adopts a similar facade. Hoping to impress two eligible ladies, the gentlemen find themselves caught in a web of lies they must carefully navigate.
Max Webster (Life of Pi) directs this hilarious story of identity, impersonation and romance, filmed live from the National Theatre in London.
AREALPAIN
Mismatched cousins David and Benji tour Poland to honour their grandmother. Their adventure becomes complicated as old tensions resurface while exploring their family history.
Fri21Feb,7pm
WICKEDSINGALONG
Misunderstood because of her green skin, a young woman named Elphaba forges an unlikely but profound friendship with Glinda, a student with an unflinching desire for popularity. Following an encounter with the Wizard of Oz, their relationship soon reaches a crossroad as their lives begin to take very different paths.
Sat22Feb,8pm Sun23Feb,2pm
THEBRUTALIST
Escaping postwar Europe, visionary architect László Toth arrives in America to rebuild his life, his career, and his marriage. On his own in a strange new country, László settles in Pennsylvania, where the wealthy and prominent industrialist Harrison Lee Van Buren recognizes his talent.
Fri28Feb,7pm
DOGMAN
When a police officer and his faithful police dog get injured in the line of duty, a harebrained but life-saving surgery fuses the two of them together — and Dog Man is born. As Dog Man learns to embrace his new identity, he must stop feline supervillain Petey the Cat from cloning himself and going on a crime spree.
Sat1Mar,2pm&5pm
LOVEHURTS
Marvin is a Milwaukee realtor who receives a crimson envelope from Rose, a former partner-in-crime whom he left for dead. He now finds himself thrust back into a world of ruthless hit men and double-crosses that turn his open houses into deadly war zones. Hunted by his brother, a volatile crime lord, Marvin must confront the choices that haunt him and the history he never truly buried.
Sat1Mar,8pm
CO-CREATE EDUCATION
10am - 3m
EDUCATION
Young people aged 12 – 16 can take part in a series of creative challenges including drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture which lead on from the last.
ARTSTUDIO
TACHARTAS EALAIN FO-SGOILE - PRE-SCHOOL ARTS EVENTS EDUCATION
GÀRRADH DÌOMHAIR SECRET GARDEN
Nurseries and Sgoil Araich are invited to join us in the Secret Garden for stories, music, movement and making. Suitable for groups of children aged 3—5, accompanied by play-leaders or childminders.
Call 01851 708493 to book a session in English or Gaelic.
EDUCATION
MINI MAKE
Visual arts sessions for Primary age children and their adults to have fun making things together.
CREATIVE PLAY
MOVEMENT AND DANCE
Join Catriona Hill in these lively sessions based around dance and physical activity. We will use props, interactive storytelling, and songs to get our bodies moving in a fun, imaginative way.
This session is for children age 2–5 and their parent or carer to be creative together. Younger siblings are welcome too. The class will help children to develop fine motor skills and senses as they explore materials and mark-making.
MUSIC SOUP
Join Eilidh in her music class designed for children in P2 – P4. This class will explore all aspects of music from beat and rhythm to dynamics and pitch. There will be a chance to sing, dance to the rhythm and play musical games!
EDUCATION
SAT ART CLUBS
These sessions offer a range of visual art and design activities for Primary school children every Saturday in term time. You don’t have to book for a whole term. There’s a different activity every week so come when you can.
SAT DRAMA CLUBS
P1-P3s will learn basic drama skills such as building confidence, teamwork and developing characters and creating their own stories. The P4-7 class will work with scripts and will also create some of our own work.
YOUTH TRAD
Join our slow session for young musicians (P7+), where you’ll learn tunes at a comfortable pace & play in a group setting. Whether new to playing or looking to gain more experience, this session is a great stepping stone to other sessions.
We can make tickets available free of charge for young people who would benefit from Youth Theatre, but for whom cost is a barrier. Contact moira@anlanntair.com or joe@anlanntair.com for details.
YOUTH BOARD
EDUCATION
Age14-25
If you would like to have a say in what happens in An Lanntair, would like to learn about programming an event or curating an exhibition or have interesting creative ideas that you would like to see happen in your Arts Centre then come and join our Youth Board. Dates will be advertised online.
ART LAB
A dynamic space for young people to unleash their creativity. Whether you’re into drawing, painting, sculpture, video editing, or image manipulation, we’ve got the tools and equipment and support for you!
CLÀR
Age14-25
Join us for a deep dive into world building, character development and game mechanics! Fine tune your skills in 3D modelling, sound design, illustration, storytelling, coding and more! No experience necessary. Image credit to particpant Ryan.
YOUTH THEATRE
We will build on confidence, creativity, and communication while exploring various aspects of performance-making from improvisation and script writing, to physical theatre and devising.
EDUCATION
CREATIVE CONNECTIONS
A series of free creative workshops for adults over the age of 60 in the Western Isles who feel isolated as a result of their circumstances be it geographical remoteness, disability or any other disadvantage. If this applies to you, you can book any of our Creative Connections workshops. You can make a booking for a friend or family member if they would like to take part.
WITCHES & WEEDS WITH ARTIST TARA M DAKINI
Tuesdays
18 Feb - 25 Mar
3.30pm - 4.45pm
Online, via Zoom
BookbyTue11Febto receivematerialsin timeforthefirst session.
In this online workshop with artist Tara M Dakini, participants will learn about the Scottish Witch Hunts and how to find out the names of the women who were accused as Witches in their area.
We’ll honour their memory by creating simple memorials decorated with wildflower designs using paper, card and gouache paint, with paper-cutting and pop-up card techniques. Art materials will be posted to you in advance of the first session.
FABRIC PRINTING WITH EMMA MACKENZIE
Wednesdays , 5 Feb - 24 Mar
7pm - 9pm, Education Room
This course offers a beginners guide to methods of printing directly on to fabric using lino prints, gelliplate processes, monoprinting and relief printing. Each weekly session will offer a taster into these methods of printing and hand painting to create a unique piece of fabric. In combination with hand stitching methods and free motion embroidery, the aim of the sessions will be to both create a decorative fabric using reclaimed materials and then use this to create a final piece, this could be a bag, or cushion or a threedimensional fabric basket.
CREATIVE WRITING WITH ANNE EDWARDS
Thursdays , 6 Feb - 13 Mar
7pm - 9pm, Community Room
Homecoming: Nature and Landscape creative writing classes. Discover the joy of creative writing by exploring your unique connection to island life in this engaging evening class. Whether you’ve grown up here or been drawn to its shores, your relationship with the island holds stories worth sharing. Through guided exercises & discussions, we’ll focus on capturing the essence of contemporary island living, while honouring its rich past. Designed to build confidence & spark inspiration, this class invites you to express your experiences and perspectives in a supportive, creative environment.
CONCRETE VISIONS WITH ISHBEL MURRAY
Thursdays, 6 Feb - 27 Mar
7pm - 9pm, Education Room
Scattered around our scenic rural environment are sites and buildings which might initially be considered uninspiring, unsightly, brutally functional or simply a blot on the landscape. This course aims to explore the expressive possibilities of this subject matter set against the stark beauty of our island as a focus for images highlighting the drama of winter, its stormy skies, deep shadows and dark moonlit silhouettes.
Studies in a variety of scale from minature sketchbook studies leading to much larger works on paper will allow participants on this course to freely exploit the creative potential of working in monochrome in a variety of media from pencil, charcoal, and chinagraph to pastel, crayon and ink.
SUSTAINABLE PRINTMAKING
Fridays, 7 Feb - 28 March
7pm - 9pm, Education Room
Contemporary and environmentally minded printmaking processes are evolving and becoming more popular, especially for those with limited materials and lack of access to a professional printmaking workshop. Over the course you will be introduced to alternative materials and processes to produce a range of fascinating results.
Personal photographs and imagery will be starting point for you to explore the potential of the techniques.These results will then inform the practice of book making, experimenting with different methods to produce alternative, tactile and fun booklets.
LIFE DRAWING WITH RUPACHITTA ROBERTSON
Wednesdays 12 Feb - 2 Apr
7pm - 9pm, Main Gallery
This class provides an opportunity to enhance your observation skills and refine your drawing techniques. Suitable for all levels, the course is designed to help you gain confidence and develop fluency in your artistic practice.
Whether you’re an experienced artist or a beginner, you’ll be encouraged to explore, experiment, and expand your life drawing abilities. With practical exercises and supportive instruction, this class will inspire you to observe more deeply and grow creatively in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
BÙTH SHOP
Profits from our shop go towards supporting An Lanntair’s work as a charity to promote the Arts and Culture of the Outer Hebrides.
Named one of British Comedy Guide’s Top 50 Comedy Shows of 2024 THUR 6 MARCH
Book at www.lanntair.com or call our box office on 01851 708480
A show about the body. Marjolein embarks on the second instalment of her standup trilogy by looking at a health condition that, left unspoken about in the past, was almost fatal. Now, shaking off the shame and armed with knowledge, Marjolein talks through menstrual health with humour and another Shetland folktale. This time the oldest story of Shetland about the deity Sea Midder. This show is not for the faint-hearted, with 9 audience members fainting and another 18 walkouts during its run at the Fringe. However, this is not gore for gore’s sake. This show has the potential to save lives. Also: JOKES. COMEDY