Aberdeen Culture Turns Up the Volume to Close Out May
The second half of the month is packed with music, theatre, art and community events.
As May rolls on, Aberdeen’s cultural calendar is in full swing. There’s plenty left to see and do, from fresh gigs and family-friendly musicals to exhibitions that pull back the curtain on the creative process. Whether you’re into live music, visual art or immersive theatre, there’s something worth stepping out for.
Theatre, Musicals and Dance Take Centre Stage
His Majesty’s Theatre will see a mix of nostalgia and reinvention this month. The stage version of Restless Natives brings the Highland highwaymen story to life with songs, humour and a healthy dose of rebellion. Meanwhile, Matthew Bourne’s all-male Swan Lake returns with its bold and emotional take on a classic ballet.
Would you like to see your message here? Let's talk.
Set sail with Anything Goes, presented by AOC Productions at the Tivoli Theatre from May 28–31, 2025. This timeless musical comedy aboard the SS American features madcap antics, mistaken identities, and show-stopping tunes.
Don’t miss this dazzling voyage of love and laughter on the high seas—where anything truly goes! Book your tickets today!
If you’re looking for something lighter, AOC Productions is setting sail with Anything Goes at the Tivoli. Expect love triangles, disguises and a big Cole Porter soundtrack. Also at the Tivoli, actor and comedian Tomasz Karolak offers a glimpse into his life in showbiz through music and stand-up in 50 and What?, while Dee Ukes bring a sunny set of ukulele songs to round out the month.
The city’s smaller stages are no less busy. At the Lemon Tree, inclusive drama group Va Va Voom tackles a Disney villain crime spree in National Hero Service. And for something a little more offbeat, Nun of Your Business wraps up its run with comedy, chaos and a few questionable habits.
Aberdeen Arts Centre has a strong run of community-led performances this month. Aberdeen University Dance Society shares personal stories through movement in Up, Up and Away, while the Gray School of Dance marks 40 years with a mix of original choreography and reunion performances. Tutu’s Dance School will also return with Reach For Your Dreams, a joyful showcase of young dancers, from toddlers to teens.
Music With Heart, Wit and Soul
Music lovers are well catered for, too. James Grant brings his mix of soul, folk and blues to the Lemon Tree, blending laid-back storytelling with Love & Money favourites. Over at The Tunnels, Gnoss deliver a forward-thinking take on traditional music, full of rich acoustic layers and standout musicianship.
For something louder, Dubinski returns to Drummonds with their new album and high-energy live show. Known for their tight sound and no-frills performance style, they’re a good bet if you like your music raw and honest.
Art and Exhibitions That Look Beneath the Surface
Aberdeen Art Gallery dives into deep waters and the creative process this month. Monsters of the Deep explores the space between myth and science with real-life ocean specimens alongside stories of sea monsters. Process, Process, Process continues to demystify creative practice, showing the sketches and experiments that come before the finished piece.
Elsewhere, Fear and Fascination at the Sir Duncan Rice Library opens a Gothic cabinet of curiosity. Expect monsters, villains and the darker side of storytelling, but also a smart look at the fears we project onto the page.
On 24 May, Aberdeen Art Gallery also hosts a relaxed event looking back at 40 years of the Grampian Hospitals Art Trust and their Artroom project. Part of the Grampian Wellbeing Festival, the afternoon offers a chance to meet artists and hear about creative work in healthcare settings.
Green Spaces, Local Markets and Public Art
The Cruickshank Botanic Garden’s Spring Plant Sale returns on 17 May, offering everything from herbs and shrubs to houseplants. It’s a low-key, welcoming way to enjoy the garden and pick up something new.
Public art gets a hands-on twist at Sunnybank Park on 24 May, where a Wayword Festival workshop blends mindful movement and street art. No experience needed—just bring clothes you don’t mind getting messy.
Film, Photography and a Bash on the Cobblestones
The NESCol Photography Showcase continues at Aberdeen Arts Centre until 29 May. A celebration of end-of-year work from students, the exhibition spans portraiture, landscape and more, showing a broad mix of styles and skills.
Ragamuffins mark their 30th anniversary with a family-friendly production of The Little Mermaid, and on 31 May, the Big Belmont Bash returns with music, street games and creative activities for all ages. It’s a brilliant way to close the month, right in the heart of the city.
And Don’t Forget…
Aberdeen Cocktail Week continues until 25 May with special Spring cocktails served across 27 venues. If you haven’t picked up a wristband yet, there’s still time to taste what the city’s bartenders have been mixing up.
