Scots Whay Hae!

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to Kevin Mclean, the creative director of I AM LOUD Productions (previously LOUD POETS) which, as well as continuing to host their legendary poetry nights, is now also a multi-disciplinary production and entertainment company. Kevin talks about the evolvement of I AM LOUD as it approaches the tenth anniversary, the challenges faced and overcome, finding new ways of promoting and supporting performers, embracing the opportunities offered by digital technology, and their plans for the future. The two also discuss Spoken Word in Scotland touching upon the history, the healthy state of the current scene, the importance of collaboration, supporting new and diverse voices, and making sure that I AM LOUD's reach is countrywide, and beyond. It's an absorbing and thought-provoking conversation about an area of Scottish culture all too rarely discussed, although I AM LOUD are changing that situation, and it was such a pleasure to talk to someone as enthusiastic a

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to returning guest, the writer Denzil Meyrick. Denzil has a new novel 'Murder at Holly House' out, published on the Bantam Press imprint of Transworld Publishers. It's been described by some as 'cosy crime' (although, as the two discuss, that term is an inadequate description) and is a departure from Denzil's more hard-nosed thrillers, and it was fascinating to talk to him about this change of styles, and The two also talk about the future of DCI Daley (including the move to TV), the various influences on 'Murder at Holly House', creating the central character of Frank Grasby, setting the action in Yorkshire - and in the 1950s - his Kinloch novellas (now collected in paperback with Polygon Books), and the exciting news about what's coming next. It's always a pleasure to catch up with Denzil Meyrick, one of the finest writers around, and we hope you enjoy listening as much as we did talking. And keep listening to the very

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to writers David Manderson and Ricky Monahan Brown to talk about the late, great, Carl MacDougall and his wonderful memoir Already, Too Late: A Boyhood Memoir. Both men talk about their relationship, and friendship, with Carl, and how he inspired, supported, and encouraged not just them but many other writers, and many others, before setting out just a few of his achievements as a writer, educator, journalist, critic, television presenter, president of Scottish PEN, and much more. The discussion then turns to the memoir itself, Already, Too Late: A Boyhood Memoir, (which is an exemplary example of the form) and how it explains and gives clues to the man Carl MacDougall would become. It was a joyous conversation to be a part of, one which celebrated and remembered a man who was central to Scottish literature and culture more widely. If you knew Carl and his incredible work then we hope you can enjoy these stories and memories, and ponder your own. If you aren

The latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast is an interview with two choreographers and theatre makers, Elisabeth Schilling & Louise Ahl, about their respective new shows 'Hear Eyes Move: Dances with Ligeti' and 'Skunk without k is Sun'. First of all Elisabeth talks about why she chose to celebrate the music of György Ligeti in 'Hear Eyes Move', what she sees as his legacy, performing the show across Europe, theatrical inspirations, why returning to perform in Scotland is so important, and more. Then Louise explains 'Skunk without k is Sun' - a new experimental solo opera work which will be performed as part of the Take Me Somewhere Festival 2023. She also talks about how she came to opera, wanting to make it more accessible (and subvert people's ideas about it), the technical and physical demands of the piece, and how previous work will feed into this new performance. Individually you'll learn about two exciting new shows coming soon, but taken together these interviews giv

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali caught up with previous guest, novelist and poet Ron Butlin, to talk about his latest book 'So Many Lives and All of Them Are Yours' the surprise sequel (& prequel) to 1987's 'The Sound of My Voice' - a surprise not least to Ron himself. The latter is one of Ali's favourite novels so it was genuinely exciting to be able to discuss the new book and learn more about the central character of Morris Magellan. Ron talks about how the book came to be, his wife's (the writer Regi Claire) important role, reacquainting himself with Morris, the joy in creating new characters in familiar places, the themes he wanted to explore, writing about the unreal - or even surreal - time of Lockdown, the unintended parallels between the two books, using different narrative voices, and so much more. The two also discuss the way Ron approaches writing, the differences, and similarities, between his poetry and prose, the importance of music in his life, and hi

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to writer Paul Dalgarno - live from his home in Melbourne - to hear all about his novel 'A Country of Eternal Light' (published with Polygon Books). Paul sets out how he describes the book to others, the unusual nature of the storytelling, the importance of place and the way distance can lend perspective on home, how his journalism feeds into his fiction, the interlinked themes and memory and grief, and a whole lot more. The two also discuss the role of central character Margaret Bryce and how the layers of her narration keep the reader guessing as she reassesses her family life. Paul also offers advice to those looking to get published, which will be of interest to writers and readers alike. 'A Country of Eternal Light' is one of the most interesting and inventive novels of the year in terms of style and content, and it was fascinating to be able to get such an insight from Paul about it. For full details, and all the relevant links, go to h

For the latest podcast Ali spoke to Nancy Baughen about this year's CrimeCon UK which is on Saturday 16th in Glasgow. Nancy talks about the beginnings of this international true crime event, what people can expect - and what it definitely isn't. She also tells us about the wide variety of speakers, her initial involvement, and her experiences of CrimeCons past. The two also discuss the increasing popularity of and interest in true crime across a number of mediums, and why CrimeCon has an importance which reaches beyond the event itself. For further details, including how the way to listen AND how to get tickets and get involved, go to https://www.scotswhayahe.com

For our third and final Bloody Scotland podcast Ali spoke to the shorlisted writers for this year's McIlvanney Prize which is for the Scottish Crime Book of the Year. First of all he caught up with Calum McSorley (Squeaky Clean), Craig Russell (The Devil's Playground), and Robbie Morrison (Cast A Cold Eye) to hear about their nominated novels and what it means to be on the shortlist. They also discuss the pervading influence of William McIlvanney's writing, the welcoming and supportive nature of the crime writing community, why Glasgow is such a natural setting for crime fiction, their experiences of Bloody Scotlands of the past, and what they are looking forward to this year. Later Ali spoke to the fourth shortlisted writer, previous podcast guest Denise Mina, to talk about her nominated novel 'The Second Murderer' and its inclusion on the McIlvanney Prize Shortlist, but they discuss so much more - including Denise's thoughts on literary prizes, her experiences of Bloody Scotland, a

For the second of our Bloody Scotland podcasts Ali spoke to writer Alison Belsham to learn about the Pitch Perfect strand of the festival. A previous winner herself who is now involved in the selection process, Alison is perfectly placed to talk about the importance of pitching a novel or idea and just what it can offer, her experience of being a writer, and offers up plenty of practical advice to those hoping to follow in her path. Alison also talks about her own writing, including the current Detective Lexi Bennett series, as well as the Edinburgh Women's Fiction Festival which is a new literary festival celebrating writing for, by, and about women, which will be on 6th - 7th October, and which Alison is heavily involved with. It's another podcast which will be of interest to readers, and writers, of all genres, but particularly crime. You can find out further details, including all the ways to listen and any relevant links, over at https://www.scotswhayhae.com And Bloody Scotland is on between 1

For the first of our Bloody Scotland podcasts - Scotland's International Crime Writing Festival - Ali spoke to four of the five shortlisted authors for this year's Scottish Crime Debut of the Year. They include Heather Critchlow (Unsolved), Kate Foster (The Maiden), Callum McSorley (Squeaky Clean) and Fulton Ross (The Unforgiven Dead) with the fifth, Heather Darwent (The Things We Do To Our Friends) unfortunately unable to join us. They each give a brief summary of their shortlisted novels before the chat turns to the diversity in the list, approaching a debut, why they chose the genre of crime, (or, in some cases, why crime chose them), the crime fiction community, and the importance of festivals such as Bloody Scotland. There is also a fascinating conversation about getting published, learning from rejections, the increasing importance of agents, conversations about covers, and many more tips on, and tales about, becoming a published author. It's a podcast which will be of interest to readers

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to previous guest Anne Pia, this time to talk about her new book 'Magnaccioni: My Food... My Italy' which is part cookbook, part memoir. Anne talks about the reasons for writing it, the importance of food and family throughout her life, embracing her Italian heritage, the importance of pasta, marrying food with wine and music, and a lot more. Sharing a love of food and cooking, the two also discuss their food philosophies, the importance of seasonal produce, the adaptability of national cuisines, and why simplicity is often the key to good cooking. 'Magnaccioni: My Food... My Italy' is a cookbook which demands to be used, and often, and it was such a pleasure to talk to Anne about it and the culinary delights. A conversation to whet the appetite, perhaps best not listen on an empty stomach. For further information, and all the relevant links, go to ⁠https://www.scotswhayhae.com⁠

For the second of our two Edinburgh Fringe Festival Specials, Ali spoke to another selection of artists who will be performing this year. They include actor / comedian Charlie Vero Martin, performer / devisers David Banks & Sadiq Ali, Fringe legend Mervyn Stutter, & members of the Voloz Collective Sam Rayner & Olivia Zerphy, each of whom tell us about their Edinburgh shows for 2023. They are further fascinating conversations about four more of the finest shows in town this August. While it's only a snapshot of what's going on, it confirms the breadth and variety of what's on offer at the Fringe, with something for everyone. The size of the festival can be overwhelming, so if you are looking for some guidance as to what to see this is the perfect place to start. For full details, and all the relevant links, go to ⁠https://www.scotswhayhae.com⁠ where you can still find our Edinburgh Fringe Special - Part One.

For the first of two Edinburgh Fringe Festival Specials, Ali spoke to a variety of artists who will be performing this year. They include actor and playwright Raymond Wilson, dance artist & choreographer Katie Armstrong, musicians Andrea Baker & Howard Moody, & contemporary dance performer & choreographer Solène Weinachter, each of whom tell us about their Edinburgh shows. They are fascinating conversations about four of the finest shows in town this August, all part of the prestigious Made In Scotland showcase of events. While it's only a snapshot of what's going on, it hints at the breadth and variety of what's on offer at the Fringe, with something for everyone. The size of the festival can be overwhelming, so if you are looking for some guidance as to what to see this is the perfect place to start. For full details, and all the relevant links, go to https://www.scotswhayhae.com

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali catches up with writer Denise Mina to talk about her new historical novel 'Three Fires', which is published by Polygon Books. Following on from the equally compelling 'Rizzio', 'Three Fires' takes a historical figure and uses significant events from the past to comment and question the present day. Denise talks about the central, complex, character of Girolamo Savonarola and how his ideas, and the resulting actions and following he inspired, are still felt today. She also talks about her approach to writing historical fiction, the satisfaction in writing complicated individuals, the joy of research, bringing the past and the present together, and so much more. The two also talk about Denise's new Philip Marlowe novel 'The Second Murderer', (which is published by Harvill Secker), and the challenges in writing someone else's character. It's a warm and informative conversation with one of Scotland's finest and favourite wr

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! Podcast Ali talks to director Pauline Lynch and actor Fletcher Mathers about the new Scots language theatre company Braw Clan, and the forthcoming production 'Secret Wrapped In Lead' which will be touring throughout the Clydesdale district in July. The play, which is written by Martin Travers, is based on the true story of Dorothy and William Wordsworth's visit to Leadhills in 1803, and Pauline and Fletcher tell us what they can about the story (avoiding spoilers), the challenges faced in getting the play from the page to the stage, as well as breaking down their own roles. They also discuss the formation of Braw Clan, the importance of keeping it local, the various dates on the tour, why Scots is at the heart of what they do, the sense of community which drives the company, and their hopes and plans for the future. It's exciting to hear about this new theatre company and the conversation whets the appetite for their debut production. For full details, including

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to Etienne Kubwabo, the Writer/Director/Producer of the new film from Mile Away Films, 'The Difference Between Us', as well as some of the cast - Craig Andrew Mooney, Alex Jackson, Paul Stirrat, and Wam Siluka Jr - to learn all about this debut feature. Etienne sets out the inspiration behind the film, the personal nature of the production, the collaborative process involved in filmmaking, and the importance of trust. We then get a fascinating insight into the casting process from both sides, learn why everyone was so keen to be involved in the project, the process of building characters, and relationships, on screen and off, and a whole lot more It's rare to get such an appreciation of the creative process, from so many of those involved, on one podcast, and we really appreciate everyone giving up their time to talk to SWH!. It's a conversation which really whets the appetite for 'The Difference Between Us'. For further details, and all

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to writer Rebecca Smith about her new book 'Rural: The Lives of the Working Class Countryside' (published by William Collins) which is part memoir, part examination of the sociopolitical construct of the countryside, something which is all too rarely written about. Rebecca explains her reasons for writing the book, the difficulty in contextualising her childhood, cutting through the romance and mythology of rural living, the often contradictory nature of tied housing (and other economic factors of working and living in the country), the complexities of class, and more. The two also talk about the extensive research behind the book, and a number case-studies named are explained. It was such a pleasure to talk to Rebecca about an area of British life that passes many of us by, even if we are regular visitors to the great outdoors. It's a podcast which works as a companion piece to the book, and we hope it will convince you that Rural: The Lives of t

For the latest podcast Ali spoke to writer and academic David Manderson to talk all things Alan Sharp, who is the subject of David's new book 'The Anti-hero's Journey: The Work and Life of Alan Sharp'. David explains what drew him to write about his subject, Sharp's early life and writing, the move into radio and TV, a remarkable success in Hollywood, the mystery of the 'missing years', and so much more. The two also discuss Alan Sharp's place, or rather absence, from the Scottish literary and cultural canon, and why this book is not only a timely reassessment of the man and his work, but that it will hopefully encourage further investigation and discussion into a writer too few are aware of. For full details, including all the relevant links, head over to https://www.scotswhayhae.com

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to poet, playwright, and now podcaster Hannah Lavery about Quines Cast - the podcast she hosts alongside Stellar Quines' Artistic Director & CEO Caitlin Skinner - Series 2 of which is currently being recorded across a number of live events before being available to catch up with in podcast form later in the year. Hannah talks about how Quines Cast began, and why, her own career as a writer, what listeners can expect from the new series, the make-up of the live shows, the themes which drive each episode, Series 1, and much more. The two also talk about the theatre company Stellar Quines which is celebrating its 30th anniversary, and you can find out more, including how to support them, and Quines Cast, by clicking on the links over at scotswhayhae.com, where you can find further details about how you can be in the audience for a live recording, and listen to both Series 1 and 2 when then time comes.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali was joined once again by writer and journalist Peter Ross to talk about his latest book 'Steeple Chasing: Around Britain By Church'. Peter talked about why he wanted to write it, the relationship to his previous publication 'A Tomb With A View', the structure of the book, how churches engage with the senses, the future of these buildings, church art, why it is in the interaction between people and place where the stories emerge, and much more. The two also discuss their own relationships with churches, particularly early experiences, as well as the welcome renaissance of print in both books and magazines. Peter is one of the finest writers around, and 'Steeple 'Chasing' is possibly his best book yet, and it was a pleasure to talk to him about it. For full details, including all the relevant links, head over to https://www.scotswhayhae.com