Belle’s Story Takes Centre Stage in July at Aberdeen Arts Centre
From fast-turnaround musicals to family sing-alongs, this month’s programme mixes fun with substance.
July brings a mix of mischief, music and bold local voices to the Aberdeen Arts Centre stage, from a nostalgic school-set boyband showdown to a reimagined bothy ballad told in Doric. With grassroots energy running through it all, there’s plenty here to surprise you.
One of the most powerful performances comes from north east performer Lucy Beth, who turns a well-known bothy ballad on its head. Ma Name Is Isabelle (24 July) takes on the traditional story of Bogie’s Bonnie Belle, a song that centres the male perspective and brushes past the consequences of a coercive relationship. In some versions, the narrator even boasts about the encounter.
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Reclaiming the ballad
Lucy’s version pulls focus to Belle herself, presenting a speculative but deeply considered portrait of a young woman navigating the aftermath of a relationship marked by imbalance and harm. Performed entirely in Doric, it draws on materials from Tobar an Dualchais’ Kist O Riches archive and was developed in collaboration with Scots song cataloguer Chris Wright. Commissioned for Eden Court’s Scrieve Project, this is a story of survival, told with care, warmth and sharpness. It’s a thoughtful reminder of how folk traditions can evolve when we look at them closely.
The month kicks off with Popstars! The 90s Musical (2–4 July), a high-school comedy full of Backstreet Boys and Spice Girls numbers, as Bridge of Don Academy take on a boyband vs girlband battle with plenty of side-eye and sparkle. A week later, the volume cranks up with The UK Rock Show (5 July), bringing 80s rock spectacle to the Arts Centre stage.
One night of madness
The 24-Hour Musical (27 July) brings together a cast and crew to create a full-scale production in just one day. It’s fast, chaotic and full of charm. This one-off performance is in support of the campaign to save Aberdeen Arts Centre.
Artie’s Singing Kettle (26 July) brings classic Scottish songs to the stage, with favourites like Aiken Drum and Three Craws. It’s a nostalgic trip for parents and a chance for younger audiences to join in the fun. A relaxed, sing-along show with warmth at its heart.
Workshops for all ages and stages
If you’re curious to try something new, free Street Theatre Workshops (17–20 July) offer the chance to explore performance in a fun and relaxed way. Aberdeen Arts Centre also continues its regular programme with drama, storytelling and writing sessions for young people and adults. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to reconnect with making or performing, there’s space to get involved.
With the campaign to save Aberdeen Arts Centre entering a crucial phase, your support matters more than ever. Whether it’s going along to a show, spreading the word, or just showing you care, every bit helps to keep this creative space going strong.
