Smythesdale’s got talent

AS an artist and a former educator Barry Wemyss believes it is important to present art, in all its many forms, not in a museum but out in the community where it can be seen and heard.

He can’t think of a better place than Smythesdale to put his beliefs into practice so Mr Wemyss is organising the inaugural Smythesdale Community Arts and Music Fiesta for Sunday, 7 October.

“I grew up in Smythesdale and I have fond memories of spending my first 20 years there, it’s the right place for a Fiesta,” Mr Wemyss said.

“There are a lot of creative people in the town and the surrounding area and I want to draw them out to show off their skills and art.”

With the help of five other members of the community he is working hard on creating a day of live music, spoken word, artistic exhibitions and workshops, hand craft stalls and demonstrations and screening a couple of short films.

The Court House Hotel is the music venue with a two-hour open-mic session kicking off at 2pm.

Woady Words Out Loud, at the Thru the Gate Café, will give poets and writers the opportunity to read their work, at another open-mic event at 12pm.

“We will have a words workshop starting at 10.30am to help anyone with tips or tuition or hints before they get up on stage,” Mr Wemyss said.

“I am really keen to get as many musicians and wordsmiths to perform at the two open-mic events, all ages and all levels are welcome to come and have a go.

“I also want to encourage members of the local arts community to set up a stall on the green to showcase and sell their craft and show the Fiesta visitors how they actually create their works.”

Art exhibitions are planned for the Well, the town’s business, health and community hub and the green will be the site for food trucks to keep the crowd fed.

Smythesdale Community Arts and Music Fiesta will be held at various locations in Smythesdale on Sunday, 7 October from 11am to 4pm.

Expressions of Interest from musicians and wordsmiths can be made by calling Barry Wemyss on 0487 225 881.