This is June: A Year of Culture and Community Building
Sponsored by Open Road - This month is packed with events and festival fun to dive into.
Can you believe it’s been a year since we launched the new POST website and newsletter? It has transformed what started as just the two of us highlighting Aberdeen culture into something that feels bigger, thanks to you. Over the past year, readers, contributors, and our amazing supporter crew have helped POST thrive, and we couldn't be more grateful for that.
Rising costs make independent publishing tricky. To help share the load, we’ve started sponsorships for creative organisations and businesses who want to pitch in a bit more. There’s no set price for now, just what feels fair to you. We're also offering new subscribers £10 off annual subscriptions to celebrate our birthday. Sign up for £20 to support our cause over the next year and help us to shine a light on Aberdeen's cultural scene.
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Open Road presents a screening of Meet the Buchanans, an off-beat documentary about the first Clan Buchanan Chief in over 300 years. With missing historical records, much of the inauguration ceremony is improvised, offering a fresh take on the role of Clans today.
Join director Barbara Orton and Professor Alison Lumsden for a post-screening Q&A. Catch it at Fittie Community Hall on Friday 6 June at 7pm, doors open at 6.30pm. Tickets are £5, pay by card or cash.
Light the Blue Festival and the Spirit of June
As we head into June, we’re feeling more connected than ever, especially with the buzz from recent community projects and the early signs of summer settling in. Hopefully this newsletter taps into that energy, sharing a sense of togetherness, creativity, and shared space. It feels like the city is leaning into something livelier, whether it’s the first warm days drawing people into streets and parks or a quiet shift in how we’re gathering and making room for each other.
Let’s start with Light the Blue, which runs throughout June. You’ll have seen it pop up over the past few years, but what makes this year feel a little different is the scale of new voices stepping forward. It’s not just about individual highlights, but a shared momentum. There’s a real focus on participation, so it’s not just for established names or polished final acts. Whether it’s pop-up theatre, lunchtime shows, dance pieces, or young artists sharing perspectives we might not otherwise hear, this year’s festival is about opening space for expression.
So grab a cuppa, get comfy, and enjoy this bumper edition of the POST newsletter. Each event adds to Aberdeen's cultural story. So what are you looking forward to this June?
Looking Back on May
Before that, though, we'll take a look at what you might have missed on POST. The push to reopen Belmont Cinema isn’t simply about bricks and mortar; it’s about what that space has represented. Michelle Soto, Belmont’s Community Fundraiser and Outreach Lead, put it simply when we spoke: “It’s not just about watching films—it’s about belonging.” That’s the heart of the effort, rebuilding a place where different narratives are heard, where those who might not otherwise cross paths can sit side by side and share an experience.
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Aberdeen Arts Centre’s urgent funding appeal is another story worth paying attention to. This isn’t just a venue for performances; it’s one of those rare places where you feel the weight of community history. Rising costs and essential repairs have forced tough decisions, but the call for support is about more than money. It’s about whether we value these shared spaces enough to keep them going. We're going to keep reminding you about this one!
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Pushing Out the Boat and Nuart Aberdeen
If you’ve been following POST, you’ll know Pushing Out the Boat’s latest issue has landed. It’s packed with voices that feel both local and far-reaching, a reminder of how a small publication can hold a mirror up to a place like this. It’s the kind of issue you’ll want to set aside some time for, with a cup of tea and space to reflect.
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Looking a little further ahead, Nuart’s 2026 return is already making a quiet ripple. Longtime fans are looking forward to its spring weekend return, when the streets come alive with art. Since the Tall Ships will take over this summer, bringing Nuart back in April means it has the space to breathe and do what it does best: surprise, challenge, and open up the city in new ways.
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And yes, we might have got a bit soppy writing about the Dons' cup winners parade. It was a moment of genuine pride for the city, with the streets filled with smiles, cheers, and shared memories. It’s not every day that Aberdeen shines quite so brightly, and we loved being there.
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What's on in June
Pat Douthwaite: Apples Kabuki
Peacock presents Pat Douthwaite’s visionary ‘Apples Kabuki’ suite of lithographs, shown in full for the first time since 1988. Inspired by Japanese Kabuki theatre, these prints merge dance, costume and the grotesque.
Originally shown at The Third Eye Centre in Glasgow, the suite transforms from delicate Komono portraits to powerful, surreal images.
GREC Language Cafe
This group is perfect for anyone wanting to practice English while meeting people from different cultures and making new friends.
Each week features a new conversation topic, guest speakers, or language games designed to build confidence in a relaxed, friendly setting.
LIGHT THE BLUE 2025: Emerge Day
Catch bold new work from emerging theatre, dance, and devised artists across three double bills. From young companies to rehearsed readings and solo performances, it’s a showcase of fresh talent.
Look out for Fibi Cowley’s puppetry and meet the next wave of performers shaping the scene. Tickets can be booked for individual shows or for the full day, and we've got discount codes for you. Use one of these at checkout.
EMERGE10 - £10 day ticket
EMERGE5 - £5 show tickets
EMERGE0 - free day or show tickets
LIGHT THE BLUE 2025: Beats & Rhymes – An Exhibition
Beats & Rhymes showcases the sonic and visual creativity of young people from Aberdeen’s music scene. With elements of lyric writing, rapping, remixing, and sound engineering, it’s packed with energy and ideas.
This is a glimpse into what these young artists have been working on over the past year, the exhibition runs Tuesday to Saturday with free entry. Come and see where the beats take you.
Aberdeen Data Meetup
Douglas Leith, Chief Intelligence Officer at COMET, has spent years mastering how to turn data into trusted information. At this month's data meetup, he’ll share key principles to help data capture attention and guide better decisions.
You have dashboards, reports, and spreadsheets, but no one is acting on them. The problem is that clarity doesn’t happen by accident. He'll show why data needs to be clear and meaningful to make an impact.
LIGHT THE BLUE 2025: Artroom x sound Exhibition
Artroom artists and young musicians from sound’s Get Creative Orchestra collaborate for this unique exhibition. Artworks created by young people at RACH inspire a series of original musical compositions.
The result is a blend of creativity across visual and musical art, recorded and showcased at the Music Hall. Free entry, and a celebration of young talent in Aberdeen.
Beauty and the Beast
This magical musical brings the classic story of Belle and the Beast to the stage, caught under an enchantress’s spell.
AEA Productions invites you to experience a ‘tale as old as time’, full of memorable songs and heartfelt moments that'll charm hearts young and old.
Kathryn Joseph & Lomond Campbell
Kathryn Joseph and Lomond Campbell play the Lemon Tree this June, bringing the raw energy of new album We Were Made Prey to life.
Their creative partnership has taken her sound into darker, bolder territory. It's emotional and unflinchingly honest. Both intense like a digital jaw clench, and warm like a sonic bath.
Grow Group Show
The Grow Group Show at Arkade Gallery offers a look at the creative outcomes from the much loved Grow Groups Programme. It’s a chance to see what’s emerged from sessions that encouraged reflection, experimentation, and shared creativity.
Participants from the courses have come together to make, share, and explore, resulting in a varied and thoughtful exhibition. A glimpse into the power of collective creativity.
Broken Creels
Broken Creels bring a night of raw, alternative sound with their unique NE Gothic Americana and alt rock style. They’re joined by support acts Eskimo Blonde and Rambler.
With free entry, it’s a great chance to catch some fresh live music. Grab your mates and get ready for an energetic evening.
Film Screening: Meet the Buchanans
Meet the Buchanans takes a fresh look at history and how it’s shaped. The documentary follows the first Clan Buchanan Chief’s inauguration in over 300 years, exploring themes of wealth, tradition, and belonging with sharp humour.
After the screening, director Barbara Orton and Professor Alison Lumsden lead a Q&A, offering deeper insight into the story. A thoughtful and engaging exploration of identity and heritage.
Gray’s Degree Show 2025
This annual exhibition transforms Gray’s campus into a huge gallery, showcasing final year projects across fine art, fashion, textiles, communication design, ceramics, jewellery and photography.
Celebrate the talent and creativity of this year’s graduating students, with an opening night on 6 Jun.
Kenna Anderson: And On We Grow
Kenna Anderson’s And On We Grow is a new collection of poems exploring change, motherhood, grief, and the wisdom that comes with age. Her words reach out with empathy and demand to be heard.
Her poetry is deeply insightful and vibrant, capturing strong emotions with a reflective style. Themes like loss, love, and friendship come alive with compassion, offering comfort and inspiration for anyone on a healing journey.
Sabotage: Pride After Party
Aberdeen’s underground queer club night, returns this June with its second Pride After-Party. It promises a mix of music, cabaret, and protest art, creating a big space for celebration and expression.
Glasgow’s LEZZER QUEST headline from midnight, known for their ‘anything goes’ sets alongside major scene names. DJ Inner Saboteur keeps the night flowing with seamless beats and unbound energy.
Adventures in Neverland
Rhythm Nation Dance and Fitness invites you to a showcase celebrating their talented Junior Dancers with a twist on the classic story of Peter Pan.
The show features a mix of dance genres, from Street Dance and Tap to Ballet and Acro, bringing energy and creativity to the stage. A fun-filled performance for all ages.
Sonnet
Aberdeen indie rock band Sonnet headline Drummonds with a sound that nods to The Snuts, The Verve, and Oasis. Their debut EP Wishful Thinking came out in 2024, and they’re touring the UK.
This is a great chance to see a local band on the rise, bringing a powerful live show full of energy and promise.
Crow House Networking Event
Crow House Projects is an educational CIC based in Aberdeen, focused on promoting local culture and artists. They’re building the city’s creative and filmmaking infrastructure.
This Creative Networking Event is designed to strengthen connections across Aberdeen’s creative scene. It features short presentations from diverse artists and professionals, followed by informal networking.
LIGHT THE BLUE 2025: Family Arts Day
A day packed with fun for kids aged 0-12 and their families. From pop-up performances and arts activities to live music, food, and sport, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained.
Enjoy a family-friendly backstage tour at His Majesty’s before the day wraps up with a lively Sprog Rock gig and a puppet-filled procession through Union Terrace Gardens. A perfect family day out.
From the Archive: Aberdeen Harbour
This exhibition showcases photographs from the Port of Aberdeen’s archive, capturing the quayside’s evolution over the past century. From old diving crews to familiar views, these images reflect change and continuity.
Curated by Phil Astley, it ties in with the arrival of the Tall Ships Races this summer.
Breathing Inner Harmony, through Eurythmy Movement and Line Drawing
Apple Aniseed Arts invites young people and adults to a practical taster session exploring gentle standing movements called Eurythmy. These gestures help build resilience and bring a sense of peace and self-connection.
Led by Nisha, the session focuses on recognising life’s challenges as chances to connect with love. It’s a calming practice designed to help you feel grounded and more at home within yourself.
The Waterboys
Mike Scott and The Waterboys are back with a genre-spanning set that draws on decades of music-making. From iconic hits like The Whole of the Moon and Fisherman’s Blues to fresh new material, there’s plenty to enjoy.
Renowned for their energetic live shows, The Waterboys deliver a night of brilliant music, charisma, and passion. A performance not to be missed.
The Wild Murphys
The Wild Murphys bring hand-clapping, toe-tapping Irish music to the stage. Known for their lively covers and infectious energy, this award-winning tribute band has been delighting audiences since 2005.
Featuring hits from their One Night in Dublin show, timeless country classics, and stories from two decades on the road, it’s a night of great music and fun. Led by Middi Murphy with a talented lineup, this is a show that’ll leave you singing.
The Wizard of Oz
Shazam Theatre Company is back on stage for the first time since COVID, bringing this family-friendly musical to life. Join Dorothy, Toto, and friends as they travel down the Yellow Brick Road.
Set after WICKED, the show features catchy songs and well-known characters, giving a fresh spin to a beloved story for all ages.
Fine Nights 3: Watercolour and Words
The third edition of FINE Nights focuses on watercolour and words, featuring artist Annie Grant and writer Karina Emslie. They’ll share their creative journeys and their work on Karina’s children’s book Bobot.
FINE Nights is a relaxed monthly meet-up that brings Aberdeen’s creative community together. Running from April 2025 to April 2026, each event highlights a different artist and their unique approach.
Around the World in 80 Days
Rhythm Nation Dance and Fitness takes you on an adventure Around the World in 80 Days, showcasing their talented Senior Dancers. Inspired by Jules Verne’s classic story, the performance blends travel and creativity.
Featuring authentic Street Dance, Ballet, Acro, and Lyrical styles, this high-energy show celebrates global cultures and the spirit of adventure through dance.
Aberdeen Highland Games 2025
A lively celebration of Scottish culture, featuring traditional sports like caber tossing and hammer throwing. It brings people together to enjoy heritage and friendly competition.
With kilted pipe bands creating the soundtrack, there’s plenty of food and drink to enjoy. It’s a full day of fun and community spirit for all ages.
LIGHT THE BLUE 2025: The Big Gig
A youth-led concert filled with energy and talent, featuring SC&T Youth, Big Noise Torry, Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Music Services, and sound’s Get Creative Ensemble.
This lively showcase highlights local young musicians, culminating in a big collaborative finale. Free to attend, but tickets are required. An uplifting night of music and community.
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Step into the magical world of Narnia as Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter leave behind their everyday lives for an adventure full of courage and discovery. With every step through the wardrobe, they face choices of love, sacrifice, and bravery.
C.S. Lewis’ beloved story takes to the stage in a stunning West End production. This reimagining invites audiences of all ages to experience the wonder of Narnia brought to life.
Loud Poets Slam Series: Aberdeen Slam
Aberdeen’s best poets compete in the third year of this high-stakes poetry slam. With a £3,000 prize at the Grand Slam Final, the tension and talent will be high.
The audience gets to decide who moves forward, making this a night of creativity, performance, and live poetry with a twist.
Rhod Gilbert & The Giant Grapefruit
Rhod Gilbert returns to Aberdeen with his latest stand-up show, packed with sharp wit and darkly funny tales. From life’s lemons to its grapefruits, he finds humour in the everyday struggles we all face.
Known for his clever observations and personal storytelling, Rhod brings his signature style to this new tour. A night of bold, no-holds-barred comedy from one of the UK’s favourites.
Barvale Nights: Ando Glaso Collective
Barvale Nights celebrates Roma culture in Scotland with a mix of ballads and lively dance tunes. It’s a new, bold showcase of Roma talent with plans to tour across the country.
The Ando Glaso Collective brings together master musicians from Romanian, Polish, Slovak, Czech, and Hungarian Roma communities. Their music blends authentic Gypsy traditions with personal heritages.
The Girl on the Train
Adapted from Paula Hawkins’ bestselling thriller, this tense play follows Rachel as she’s drawn into a complex missing person case. Layer by layer, the story unfolds with gripping twists and suspense.
A night at the theatre that keeps you guessing, it’s a sharp, atmospheric adaptation that captures the novel’s chilling sense of uncertainty.
Rob Beckett: Giraffe
Rob Beckett returns with a new tour, bringing his signature style to tales of family life, modern absurdities, and the odd hilarity of hotel buffets.
With sharp observations and plenty of laughs, it’s a show packed with stories that feel all too familiar. Beckett’s warm, cheeky charm makes for a great night out.
Annie
Phoenix Youth Theatre brings Annie to the stage, a cheerful musical that’s great for the whole family. It features memorable songs that stay with you long after the final curtain.
The story follows themes of hope and resilience, showing how believing in a better future can make all the difference. It’s a gentle reminder of optimism and strength.
Tales Upon A Time
Step into a world where classic fairytales collide in Tales Upon A Time, Munelle School of Performing Arts’ lively new family show. Packed with laughter, music, and adventure, it’s a fast-paced twist on your favourite stories.
Runaway princesses, mixed-up wolves, and bold villains take centre stage in this fun-filled performance for kids and grown-ups. Big characters, unexpected moments, and a whole lot of fun await.
Until next time...
A huge thanks to our sponsor for this month’s issue, Open Road. Their passion for storytelling and community runs deep, from national productions to local projects. Whether it’s mentoring, events, or advice, they’re here to help share stories that matter. We’re super grateful for their support and the creativity they bring to our shared spaces.
C&K 💛
