Tapsalteerie, Mitchell Library, 30 September, 2017

In Scotland there was a folklore tradition, prior to the reformation to hold a Festival of Unreason, presided over by a character known, variously, as the Lord of Misrule or more usually, in Scotland, the Abbot of Unreason. This was a topsy-turvy event, where the normal order of things changed for the duration. This is what Tapsalteerie is.
Spoken Word, using both Burns text and readers, plus Scots language poetry and stories, told by writers from all over Scotland. In a central location, showcasing just what can be done with the language and verve. It will be held during Doors Open which will help people find the world turned upside down.
In a Burns context the overlords would become underlings and the common people would rule, the worth of everyman and woman, would be judged in respect of their intrinsic worth and not their ‘guinea stamp’. This is what Tapsalteerie intends.
The language we are gifted in Scotland as our birthright, and so often underplayed, and which Burns extolled, will be the word spoken and acted out in this festival. This is the language Tapsalteerie will use.
Call for Contributors
Marc Sherland is coordinating this event, he wants anyone who recites Burns or writes or performs in Scots to email him marcsherland@me.com
The Mitchell Library, Granville Street, Glasgow G3 7DN
This section: Books, Talks, Poetry and Creative Writing Events, Events, Fairs, Festivals and Fundraisers, What's On Glasgow West End: cinema, clubs, theatre, music, events, festivals, community and more
Related Pages
- Splitsville at GFT
- Heidi Talbot, Paisley Arts Centre
- Could you open your home and heart to a guide dog puppy, and help change a life?
- The Drama – GFT
- Scotland and Los Angeles Showcase GFT
- Rose of Nevada GFT
- Rushmore – Access Film Club GFT
- Broken English – GFT
- WestFest 2026
- Take 2: The Day The Earth Blew Up – Looney Tunes
- Glasgow Film Theatre Programme for April 2026
- Glasgow International 2026
- Hinba Bakery Hyndland – Expansion Plans
- Bruidhinn Ar Canan: Gaelic for Beginners (8 week course)
- Showcase Screening, GMAC Partnership, University of Glasgow
- Maid of the Loch – Hard Hat Tour – Heritage Festival
- Bloody Mary Sunglasses – Fail Better YCTR
- Glasgow Merchant City Festival 2026
- When Billy Met Alasdair
- Glasgow: Michael Pedersen in conversation with Fern Brady, Waterstones
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.