Out and About: The UnTalent Show at Aberdeen Arts Centre

Summer fundraiser gives performers just two weeks to prepare their act

đź’ˇ
What: The UnTalent Show
When: Friday 20 June 2026
Where: Aberdeen Arts Centre, Schoolhill, Aberdeen
Tickets: Book here

Ten performers will go on stage on 20 June having only found out their act a fortnight before the night. Each is assigned a random “untalent” to prepare: options include worm charming and a dramatic reading of a work email.

The show is part of the Save Aberdeen Arts Centre campaign, which has raised over ÂŁ166,000 and was recently shortlisted for Fundraising Campaign of the Year at the National Fundraising Awards.

The UnTalent Show poster: neon sign on a dark brick wall, 20 June 2026
Ten performers will find out their act two weeks before the show

Confidence over competence

The event is the idea of creative learning lead Leah Christie. “The UnTalent Show strips away the worries of not being the best at something,” she said. “We’re looking for people who want to try something new and don’t take themselves too seriously to sign up and take part.” No prior stage experience is needed.

The audience picks the winner on the night. “The Arts Centre is safer, not safe yet,” said fundraising manager Julia Smith. “In my eyes, though, they’re all winners for supporting our cause.”