Posts by Kenny Smith
HG Wells and Jules Verne influence The Magic Flute tour
Sir Thomas Allen’s five-star production of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s The Magic Flute returns to Scottish Opera in May. But it will have a unique look, set in a spectacular world inspired by the Victorian futurism of HG Wells and Jules Verne. Mozart’s most inventive opera, featuring a handsome prince, a damsel in distress, sorcerers, priests…
Read MoreRobert Burns and the Bard of Bengal
You may have recently found yourself humming some of the Bard’s best-known songs. If not, then it is possible that you may have sung Auld Lang Syne at Hogmanay. Such is the song’s global appeal, that were you to visit India, you would probably think that there, too, the locals are singing Burns’ famous song.…
Read MoreBirdwatcher’s top 10 in the north east of Scotland
No matter where you go in Scotland, you’ll see lots of our wonderful avian wildlife. We present a top 10 of birds you can see in the north-east of the country, throughout the four seasons. Get those binoculars out and see how many you can spot! Spring Lochs Davan & Kinnord:no spring is a sweet…
Read MoreThe black heart of Scots crime writer Ian Rankin
The Black Isle holds a special place in the affections of celebrated author Ian Rankin. The Black Isle conjures up images of somewhere dark and bleak. However it’s neither an island nor is it black; the name comes from the rich, dark colour of the soil. It’s a small piece of land, with agriculture and…
Read MoreCharity air ambulance pilot’s crucial flights
Former military pilot John Stupart has flown helicopters for 17 years. He now works for Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA), which saves the lives of those who have accidents in Scotland’s most remote places. What made you decide too take on this role and why is the SCAA so important? I am enthusiastic about being…
Read MoreThe story of Britain’s most beautiful shortcut
The Crinal Canal runs across the Kintyre peninsula – and by 1854, 33,000 passengers had been transported along it. Marian Pallister explores the canal from its origins, discussing the purpose and method of its construction, the ways in which it has been used and the effect it has had on its surroundings. The outcome is…
Read MoreWith James Bond writer, you only live twice
You know the name… you know the number – James Bond, 007. As the author of the James Bond novel Solo, William Boyd has shared parts of his own life with Ian Fleming’s eternally popular hero. Published in 2013, Solo centres on Bond’s mission to the civil war in the fictional country of Zanzarin, where…
Read MoreThis luxury penthouse has stunning views
A sleek and luxurious penthouse located on the shorefront of Loch Fyne, overlooking its shimmering waters and vibrant coastline has just hit the market. Located in the popular coastal town of Tarbert, Argyll and Bute, in the former Columba Hotel Development, The Penthouse blends history with modern style and offers buyers the utmost in splendour…
Read MoreCelebrating Scots produce is the key for chef Kevin
MasterChef quarter-finalist and executive chef Kevin Dalgleish talks about his favourite produce to work with at The Chester Hotel in Aberdeen. What’s your favourite March dish? March is one of those months where the winter produce is finishing and it’s still not quite hot enough for spring. But there is still a lot of duck…
Read MoreA handsome home that’s nearly 200 years old
Ardlamont House is a handsome detached Georgian house near Tighnabruaich, in Argyll and Bute. Protected by a category B listing, it is presented for sale by Robb Residential. The property dates from approximately 1820 and is laid out over two storeys with a garden level. Following the destruction of Toward Castle in the 17th century,…
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