The Tweed Valley's rich heritage and strong sense of tradition are more than matched by the wide range of contemporary arts and activities which thrive nowadays throughout this part of the Scottish Borders [1]. Whether you're interested in the visual arts, dance, drama, literature or music you can find classes and workshops to join, studios and galleries to visit, as well as a busy calendar of theatre performances and arts festivals to enjoy.
From West Linton to Selkirk, there are local artists and craftsmen working in paint, photography, bronze, ceramics, glass, jewellery, textiles, and wood. Galleries and museums in Broughton, Peebles, Innerleithen and Selkirk display work in every medium, showcasing both local artists and a selection from further afield.
The Eastgate Theatre in Peebles offers a diverse mix of live performances all year round, while Bowhill Theatre near Selkirk stages a handful of productions both indoors and out, and Traquair House near Innerleithen hosts a promenade performance by Shakespeare at Traquair. Many of the community and village halls feature amateur opera productions once a year, as well as occasional concerts and dances.
If you like your culture concentrated into a few action-packed days, why not sample one of the lively arts festivals which have become such a feature of the Scottish Borders? Choose between Peebles International Jazz Festival (Friday 28 - Sunday 30 May 2010), Traquair Fair (Saturday 31 July and Sunday 1 August 2010), Innerleithen Music Festival (August), Peebles Arts Festival (September), and Scott's Selkirk (December) - or come and enjoy all of them!
Article contributed by Caroline Adam, Eastgate Theatre & Arts Centre [2]