Silver, Scandal and Steps Mary Returns to Aberdeen
Two cultural events revisit Mary, Queen of Scots through objects and imagination.
This October, the Granite City plays host to two different perspectives on Mary, Queen of Scots. One is a centuries-old silver casket with an almost mythical backstory. The other is a bold new ballet exploring her rivalry with Elizabeth I. Both shed light on a figure who still provokes strong opinions and curiosity.
On display at Aberdeen Art Gallery from 11 October, the Mary, Queen of Scots Casket is thought to have belonged to the Queen herself. Made in Paris over 500 years ago, it is one of the few surviving examples of early French silver. Its link to Mary may have helped protect it through wars and political turmoil. But even without that story, its design and craftsmanship make it worth seeing.
Dr Anna Groundwater of National Museums Scotland describes it as “a rare and spectacular piece of historic silver” and says it has been venerated as a relic for centuries. You’ll be able to see the casket up close until 19 April.
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History retold through dance
While the casket invites more introspective reflection, Scottish Ballet’s new production brings Mary’s story into the present. Running at His Majesty’s Theatre from 2 to 4 October, Mary, Queen of Scots reimagines her life through movement, costume and music.
Choreographer Sophie Laplane and co-creator James Bonas focus on the complex relationship between Mary, Queen of Scots, and Elizabeth I. The production blends historical detail with a striking, modern style, combining elements of period drama and punk. The score, created by the team behind Coppélia, will be performed live by the Scottish Ballet Orchestra.
A shared focus on reinterpretation
These two events take different forms but work well in parallel. One is grounded in physical history, while the other is rooted in creative expression. They offer a chance to think differently about a woman often remembered more for her downfall than for her life story.
Artistic Director Christopher Hampson said the ballet aims to reshape a familiar tale with “powerful originality.” Bringing this new work to Aberdeen adds another layer, given the city’s own links with Scottish history.
