ABERDEEN INTERNATIONAL YOUTH FESTIVAL

For over 20 years the Universal Hall has been hosting the young groups from around the world sent by the Aberdeen International Youth Festival. This show is always terrific, proving that youthful ambassadors, using dance and music, can break down the barriers between nations. Time and time again these young troupes demonstrate that traditional cultures will reach the hearts and mind of anyone who comes to listen and watch. This year we have two great troupes: hailing from Ghana, Kaasah, delight audiences with a spectacle of vision and sound. They are highly acclaimed in their own country but this is their first time here. For the Manama Youth Folk Band from Bahrain, song holds a prominent place in their traditions and customs. They aim to revive folk music in the hearts of young people and to speak to as broad an audience as possible. This show is a must-see if you want a youthful take on world dance and music.

Wed 1st Aug, 7.30pm, £10/£8concs/£6 U16’s

ANGUS: WEAVER OF GRASS

Presented by the magical Horse and Bamboo Theatre Company, Angus MacPhee’s life is a tale of illness, lost traditions and magical hats made of grass “stunning like sunbursts”. Raised on South Uist, and severely affected by WWII, Angus spent 50 years in a psychiatric hospital. He did not speak; instead he wove remarkable costumes out of grass. This work now features in the collection de l’Art Brut, Switzerland. Featuring Gaelic singer Mairi Morrison and grass replicas by Joanne B Kaar, and using the sounds, songs and images of the Outer Hebrides, this is his tale. Horse and Bamboo make visual theatre in which music and story-telling is central. They also use a stunning combination of masks, puppetry and film to add to the live action – theatre at its best and most creative. Suitable for all but the smallest children.

“Physical, emotional and aural beauty… their collective artistry is awesome” The Stage

Sat 4th Aug, 2pm, £7/£6concs/£4 U16’s.

Tickets available at the Phoenix Stores, Findhorn 01309 690110 and online at www.wegottickets.com/UniversalHall

For more shows see the website at www.universalhall.co.uk

Source: Universal Hall