What's On Aberdeen: Your Guide to Cultural Events

March

Stephen Daldry's award-winning An Inspector Calls returns after a sell-out 2022 tour. This National Theatre production of Priestley's classic has thrilled over 5 million worldwide. When Inspector Goole crashes the Birlings' dinner party, his revelations about a young woman's death shatter their world. More relevant than ever, it's a gripping night out that'll have you questioning everything.

Marking its 10th anniversary, Natalie Tough School of Dance presents The Last 10 Years, a showcase inspired by major events, movies, and music of the past decade. Featuring students aged 2 to young adults, the performance spans ballet, acrobatics, musical theatre, tap, and more.

Local artist Kate Steenhauer showcases 'Painting Music'—where AI turns live sketches into original tunes. Watch, listen, and try it yourself! Kate will also reveal her new artist book honouring Ada Lovelace, the pioneering mathematician. It's a unique blend of art, tech, and history you won't want to miss.

Edinburgh's punk pioneers The Rezillos bring their electrifying sound to Aberdeen. From underground hits like "Can't Stand My Baby" to chart-toppers "Top of the Pops", they've been blending punk energy with sci-fi themes since 1976. Catch these new wave legends live—it's a night of sharp riffs and irreverent fun you won't forget!

Bob Bain, an Aberdeen artist and printmaker was a true romanticist. His work captures an emotional response to nature’s moods, blending personal narrative with a printed medium. This exhibition brings his works together in their entirety for the first time, offering a chance to explore his profound artistic vision and reflect on the world he left behind.

Poetry in the Park takes place on the last Sunday of every month in the beautiful Union Terrace Gardens, near Common Sense Café. This open mic event welcomes everyone, offering a unique mix of community and creativity. Share your own work or just enjoy an afternoon of spoken word in a scenic spot.

Reja Gildea's stunning collage work is coming to the Bonnymuir Green Café! After wowing audiences at last year’s Open Art Exhibition, Reja was inspired to develop an entire show. Her exhibition, Dreamland, showcases a collection of her captivating and imaginative collages, offering visitors a glimpse into her creative world.

Discover a fresh take on art at Artist Textiles: Picasso to Warhol. Explore how 20th-century modern art found its way onto clothing and home decor, with works by legends like Picasso, Warhol, Dalí, Matisse, and Zandra Rhodes. It’s where art meets everyday life

Explore Process, Process, Process at Aberdeen Art Gallery, a behind-the-scenes exhibition that reveals the tools, sketches, and workspaces shaping creativity. Offering a rare glimpse into the artistic journey, it showcases the magic that happens before a masterpiece is complete.

Warhammer fans, the new Hammer-Deen Gaming Club is your spot. Every Thursday from 5:30–9:30 pm at Inchgarth Community Centre, you can roll dice, paint models, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. With full-size tables, plenty of scenery, and a friendly atmosphere, it’s the hub of Aberdeen’s Warhammer scene.

Aberdeen’s biggest open mic night is here, offering a welcoming stage for performers of all levels to share their musical talents. Simply sign up on the night and step into the spotlight. It’s a fantastic way to connect with the local music scene, discover new talent, and enjoy a lively community vibe.

Magma provides a free, supportive space for Aberdeen’s budding musicians to thrive. Open to anyone aged 14 and up, this weekly event features performances, workshops, and networking. Whether in the main room or the recording studio, it’s all about fostering local talent and creativity.

April

Tickets are now live for Dee to the Sea, Greyhope Bay’s 31.5km fundraiser walk from Banchory to Torry Battery. This scenic challenge supports Greyhope Bay’s work connecting people with the coastline and local communities.

LIMITED TICKETS: Fierce Beer hosts the Aberdeen Beer Festival at the Music Hall, bringing together twelve incredible guest breweries alongside their own award-winning creations. With two sessions filled with stunning flavours, it’s a must-visit event for craft beer enthusiasts in the heart of Aberdeen.

404 Ink's new anthology of Scottish queer writing takes centre stage with host Michael Lee Richardson. Hear Mae Diansangu, Robbie MacLeòid, Hannah Nicholson and Shane Strachan read and discuss their work in English, Gaelic and Scots. It's a celebration of diverse voices and languages—don't miss this literary feast!

Transglobal Underground returns to Aberdeen, bringing their unique fusion of Western, Asian, and African music styles. Supported by local band TITANS, blending Dub Reggae, Ska, New Wave, and Dance into their own Clash Reggae sound. Sounds like a brilliant night.

Future

Join Wayword for the Aberdeen launch of Heather Parry’s latest novel, Carrion Crow. This powerful gothic tale delves into mother-daughter relationships, sexuality, and class. The event will be chaired by Professor Timothy C. Baker, promising an engaging discussion. Don’t miss this chance to explore a spine-tingling narrative!

Fancy crafting your own gothic tale? Join author Heather Parry for a writing workshop inspired by preview objects from the upcoming Gothic exhibition at Sir Duncan Rice Library. Get spooked, get creative, and maybe enter our new Gothic Story Competition! It's a chance to unleash your inner Edgar Allan Poe.

Heather Parry shares her writing journey and path to publication in this event for North East writers. Get insider tips on building a successful writing career from the author herself. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your craft, it's a chance to learn from Parry's experience. Don't miss this opportunity to boost your writing ambitions!

Unleash your inner street artist with Outlines Collective and Grampian Wellbeing Festival. This hands-on workshop blends spray painting with mindful movement—discover how body and mind sync to create bold art. Suitable for ages 12+, all materials provided. Dress for mess! Book now—creativity meets movement under the Aberdeen sky.

The Tall Ships Race is back in Aberdeen, set to be one of the year’s biggest events. Expect 30-50 spectacular ships, a nautical village, a Union Street crew parade, light shows, parties, and more. With half a million visitors expected, it’s a huge celebration of maritime culture.

The Aberdeen Comedy Festival is back, with more venues across the city buzzing with laughter than ever before. Aberdeen Performing Arts is taking the festival to new heights, cementing the Granite City’s place on Scotland’s comedy circuit. Big names are already being announced, so stay tuned for more!

Ever had a late-night thought that felt brilliant but made no sense in the morning? That’s this show. Sara Pascoe brings her signature mix of hilarity and chaos as she navigates sleepless kids, a messy kitchen, and a husband who “doesn’t want to be in it.” Expect laughs, relatability, and a bit of the absurd.