Spring Spreads a Warm Cultural Glow Across Aberdeen

Hey You,

As Aberdeen’s days grow longer and the first hints of spring emerge, there’s a sense of renewal in the air. It’s ace, isn’t it? The early snowdrops peeking through the soil are a welcome sight after the long winter months and a gentle nudge encouraging us all to venture out and explore. This change of season brings a fresh energy, inspiring us to shake off the winter blues and embrace the city’s cultural offerings.

With this newfound spring in our step, let's take a moment to reflect on the exciting cultural happenings that brightened up February in Aberdeen. The past month has been a whirlwind of creativity, showcasing the city's commitment to arts and culture.

February saw Aberdeen Arts Centre embark on a new chapter with the appointment of Eve Nicol as its programming and creative director. Eve's fresh perspective and innovative ideas promise to breathe new life into this beloved venue, potentially transforming it into a hub for experimental artistic development.

Meanwhile, the University of Aberdeen announced an ambitious project that weaves the city's rich history into a striking new tapestry. This collaboration between Zimbabwean-Scottish artist Sekai Machache and Edinburgh's Dovecot Studios will explore cultural identity and belonging, creating a lasting legacy for future generations to admire at the Sir Duncan Rice Library.

Granite Noir 2025 kicked off in style with a live performance of the BBC Sounds podcast Murder They Wrote. Hosts Iain Stirling and Laura Whitmore kept the audience on the edge of their seats with a perfect blend of historical intrigue and sharp wit.

Art fans have been treated to a new exhibition at Aberdeen Art Gallery, celebrating works on paper by 12 contemporary women artists. This display, running until March 2026, offers a glimpse into the richness of Aberdeen's collection and the diverse techniques employed by these talented artists.

Looking ahead to March, there's plenty more to be excited about. From big-name performances to community-driven shows, Aberdeen continues to cement its position as a hub for arts and creativity.

So, let's dive into what March has in store for us.

Chris & Kevin xx

What's on in March

Sophie McCartney: One Foot in the Rave

5 Mar - Lemon Tree

Sophie McCartney's at it again, bringing her comedy chops to the stage after a whirlwind global tour and a bestseller under her belt. This time, she's tackling the joys of perimenopause and the odd bits of midlife, armed with denial, tequila, and a rather sensible bedtime.

Feeling caught in the muddle between young and old? Sophie's got you covered. Her take on the mayhem of mum life and the hormone-fuelled rollercoaster is spot on. If you're up for a laugh about life's messy middle, this might be just the ticket.

Moody Moody Live

7 Mar - Krakatoa

Aberdeen's alt-noise outfit Moody Moody are set to headline at Krakatoa, bringing their distinctive blend of shoegaze, dream pop, and indie sounds to the stage. The band, comprised of Levi, Jack, Marc, and Phil, is known for crafting a moody yet captivating atmosphere with their music.

If you're keen on experiencing Moody Moody's lingering melodies and atmospheric tunes, this event at Krakatoa is not to be missed. With their unique sound that sticks with you long after the last note, it's shaping up to be a proper good night out for music lovers.

Eat the Rich 4

7 Mar - Lemon Tree

Aberdeen Performing Arts and Sanctuary Queer Arts are bringing back Eat the Rich 4 for its fourth year, mixing drag, dance, beats, and spoken word. Hosted by Uncle Tony (Aberdeen’s karaoke king), it’s a bold cabaret of queer creativity and sharp satire.

The lineup’s stacked with Flava J’s moves, Huss Aya’s grooves, Oran Longmuir’s words, and Roseanne Reid’s tunes. Expect unapologetic flair and a proper good night out celebrating Scotland’s LGBTQIA+ talent – provocative, lively, and full of heart.

Root System

8 Mar - Drummonds

Root System are the ska/punk/dance crew guaranteed to get the crowd buzzing. Fronted by brothers Kev Fek (vocals) and Ronnie (guitar/vocals), they’re joined by Handsome Dan on bass and mate Ryan on drums, delivering high-energy riffs and infectious grooves.

Expect a live show that’s all electric vibes and catchy tunes. Whether it’s ska-punk thrills or dancefloor fillers, this lot’s got everyone moving. Perfect if you fancy a proper good knees-up with mates.

Matt Forde: End of an Era Tour

11 Mar - Lemon Tree

Matt Forde’s already roasting the new government with his razor-sharp takes. The British Scandal podcaster and Spitting Image writer tears into Westminster’s latest crop, skewering scandals, blunders, and the glorious mess of political life.

Fresh off sold-out tours and The Last Leg, his live act’s a masterclass in satire – think brutal impressions and chaotic punchlines. Catch his hilarious takedowns now, before the next political meltdown kicks off.

Haiver

13 Mar - Lemon Tree

Billy Kennedy from Frightened Rabbit returns with Haiver, Glasgow’s indie-rock five-piece serving raw emotion and glimmers of hope. Their sound navigates grief and vulnerability, balancing stormy riffs with moments of uplift – a cathartic tightrope walk for tough times.

Support comes from multi-instrumentalist Siobhan Wilson’s soaring harmonies and Devin Casson’s intimate folk reflections. Together, they craft a night of bruised beauty and communal catharsis – perfect for anyone who’s found light in life’s grey areas.

Deadfire

14 Mar - Drummonds

Deadfire, Aberdeen’s rowdy drunk’n’roll crew, serve up pure, old-school chaos with sleazy riffs and sweat-drenched energy. Frontman Charlie leads the charge – all swagger and snarl over Rich’s gnarly guitar, Oi’s bass thunder, and Tunk’s drum assault.

This lot’s live shows are unapologetic throwbacks to rock’s messy glory days. Expect zero polish, maximum adrenaline, and a proper good racket – the kind that leaves ears ringing and pints spilt. Proper chaos, done right.

RhymeLounge: HOURS feat. Tzusan (Aberdeen Jazz Festival)

15 Mar - The Blue Lamp

RhymeLounge returns to Aberdeen Jazz Festival on 15 March, pairing hip-hop with live jazz instrumentation. HOURS Live Quartet joins acclaimed rapper Tzusan, showcasing tracks from his new album Ponzu.

With influences ranging from lo-fi nostalgia to digital maximalism, Tzusan’s sound blends sharp lyricism with genre-bending beats. Supported by Aberdeen’s own Jackill, this one-off show promises a night of creativity and energy that pushes boundaries.

Jamali Maddix: Aston

16 Mar - Lemon Tree

Jamali Maddix is back with his latest no-holds-barred comedy tour, Aston. Fresh from sold-out shows worldwide and his chaotic stint on Taskmaster, he’s ready to dissect global absurdities with his trademark sharp wit.

If you enjoy comedy that dives into politics, culture, and life’s madness without holding back, then grab your tickets. This is anarchic humour at its finest, and you won’t want to miss it!

A Play, A Pie and A Pint: Dookin’ Oot

18 Mar - Lemon Tree

Diane's stuck in her Easterhouse flat with a terminal diagnosis and a pension that won't stretch to a Swiss farewell. Enter Julie, her carer, reeling from a cheating husband and desperate to feel alive again. Their solution? A chaotic OnlyFans side hustle as dominatrices, with help from a young postie.

But life, death, and utter mayhem keep derailing their path to 'sex-cess'. It's a riotous black comedy that'll have you laughing and cringing in equal measure. Expect wild schemes, kinky mishaps, and a hefty dose of gallows humour.

Let’s Dance

19-22 Mar - Arts Centre

Lamour School of Dance is set to dazzle with their upcoming show "Let's Dance" at Aberdeen Arts Centre. Running from 19th to 22nd March, this spectacular celebration of movement and music promises a treat for dance enthusiasts of all stripes.

From Broadway classics to pop hits, the talented performers will showcase a variety of dance styles. Expect an evening filled with rhythm, energy, and joy as the dancers bring their routines to life on stage. Whether you're into traditional theatre dance or more modern styles, this show's sure to get your toes tapping.

The Witches of Eastwick

19-22 Mar - HMT

The Witches of Eastwick pits three bored women against the devilishly charming Darryl Van Horne in a riot of magic and rebellion. With Olivier-nominated dark comedy and killer tunes, it's a spellbinding clash of chaos and female fury.

Expect wickedly funny scenes, a sumptuous score, and a tale of hidden powers gone awry. Book now for this devilishly good time – hell hath no fury like three women scorned!

Hannah Harkes: Rock, Hard, Sea, Fluid

21-29 Mar - The Print Room

Hannah Harkes' "Rock Hard, Sea Fluid" explores strength and softness through her scoliosis journey. Post-diagnosis, she found unexpected tenderness in weightlifting, inspiring works that celebrate resilience. Curated by Nuno Sacramento, the exhibition blends gym sweat with North Sea splashes.

Harkes' prints and paintings reflect her daily pain management through art. It's a powerful look at adapting to life's curveballs, celebrating the grit behind chronic pain. Expect a mix of linocuts and oil paintings that'll make you rethink what strength really means.

Monza Express

22 Mar - Drummonds

Monza Express, a five-piece guitar band from Aberdeen, Scotland, are set to headline at Drummonds on Saturday, 22nd March 2025. The gig starts at 8PM and promises to showcase their blend of musical influences.

Joining Monza Express on the night are Ayrshire combo Box of Trash, making their Aberdeen debut, and local lads Pitnamoon completing the lineup. It's shaping up to be a cracking night of live music.

Ignacia Lopez: Señor Self Destruct

25 Mar - Lemon Tree

Spain's "Best Export" Ignacio Lopez brings his self-improvement mission to Aberdeen. Fresh from Live at the Apollo and Have I Got News for You, he's tackling vices, tech addiction, and... spiders on drugs?

Expect wicked wit and effortless charm as this "exotic outsider" comedian tries to build Ignacio 2.0. It's a night of sharp laughs and irreverent questions – perfect for fans of playful, boundary-pushing comedy.

An Inspector Calls

25-29 Mar - HMT

Stephen Daldry’s award-winning An Inspector Calls is back, sharper than ever. This National Theatre hit returns after smashing 2022 tours, reimagining Priestley’s classic thriller about a wealthy family’s dinner party derailed by a mysterious inspector.

With its bombed-out set and haunting score, Daldry’s vision turns 1912 class divides into a gripping mirror for today’s inequalities. More relevant now than in ’45, it’s a night that’ll leave you squirming – and questioning everything.

The Last 10 Years

26-29 Mar - Arts Centre

Natalie Tough School of Dance marks its 10th anniversary with "The Last 10 Years", a showcase inspired by the past decade's major events, movies, and tunes. Students aged 2 to young adult will strut their stuff in styles ranging from ballet to acrobatics, musical theatre to tap.

Expect a nostalgic journey through the last ten years, blending technical skills with youthful energy. It's a chance to see how far the school's come and celebrate the next generation of Scottish dance talent.

The Rezillos

29 Mar - Lemon Tree

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! Expect a proper punk party with tunes that'll have you pogoing like it's 1977 all over again.

We hope you enjoyed this edition of the POST Newsletter, and are inspire to head out and explore the city's cultural offerings. We're always excited to hear about upcoming cultural events in our community, sof you're planning something in the coming months, please don't hesitate to reach out—we'd be delighted to help spread the word.

As always, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our wonderful Supporter Crew. Your generosity and enthusiasm are truly the backbone of this newsletter.

Until next month...

C&K 💛