Scottish Dementia Arts Festival 2025 to take place at Macrobert

Macrobert Arts Centre is delighted to announce that the Scottish Dementia Arts Festival will be taking place in our venue from Thu 25 - Sat 27 Sept 2025.

Previous iterations of this growing festival have taken place in Inverness (2023) and Edinburgh (2024). The Scottish Dementia Arts Festival showcases the creativity of people living with dementia and their care partners in a variety of artforms. This celebration aims to dispel myths and stigma around the disease and empower others who have been diagnosed not to be discouraged from making the most of life and expressing their creativity. The festival also aims to highlight the importance of art and creative activity in improving quality of life for those affected.  

Every piece presented during the festival will showcase the resilience and spirit of the dementia community, in a joyful rebellion against stigma. Powerful music, theatre, poetry, film and visual art all made by dementia-diagnosed creatives will fill our venue over this very special weekend in September. 

The full lineup is yet to be announced, but we are glad to confirm that the festival will be headlined by the fantastic Robby Gordon Band, bringing their energy, soul and unforgettable tunes. Yesteryear Dance will be making a joyous return after their entertaining performances at previous festivals. There will also be three-week visual arts exhibition in our Arthouse space, in the run-up to and during the festival.  

Deepness Dementia Arts are the festival’s founders, an organisation created and run by people with lived experience of dementia. Submissions are now open to take part in the festival, and  any artist who is living with dementia or artists/creative organisations who have co-produced a developing or finished artwork in partnership with people living with dementia is welcome to apply. As long as the work/workshop can be performed, exhibited or facilitated then the festival team would love to read your proposal. There are limited funds available to assist artists in showcasing their work, for more information please contact the festival organisers at the addresses below.  

Please submit all proposals by emailing ron@deepnessdementiaradio.com and dawn@deepnessdementiaradio.com by Mon 30 Jun 2025.  

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Macrobert Arts Centre launches vibrant programme for summer/winter 2025

Macrobert Arts Centre has unveiled an eclectic lineup of live performances and event cinema for its Summer/Winter 2025 season. 

Central Scotland’s premier multi-arts venue will showcase a wide range of genres and disciplines as part of a varied and vibrant programme.  

Autumn 2025 will see Deepness’ Dementia Arts Festival come to Macrobert in its third year, a week-long celebration of creativity from artists living with dementia. Combining powerful music, theatre, poetry, film and art, the festival showcases the resilience and creativity of the dementia community and pushes back against stigma and stereotypes.  

A beloved Julia Donaldson story is coming to the Macrobert stage this October. Olivier-nominated The Smeds and the Smoos comes from Tall Stories, the company which has also produced Donaldson’s The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom. Spot’s Birthday Party will be at Macrobert this July for the perfect summer holiday activity for families, with an engaging and interactive adaptation of Eric Hill’s classic picture book, featuring songs and integrated Makaton. 

Also featured in the new programme are several thought-provoking pieces of theatre. Black is the Color of My Voice is a stunning one-woman show about the life of iconic musician Nina Simone, written by and starring Apphia Campbell (pictured). Piaf Revisited sees renowned Scottish songwriter Christine Bovill take audiences through the turbulent life of Edith Piaf, intertwining her story with Bovill’s personal journey.  

Curated and presented by Macrobert, Central Scotland Documentary Festival (CSDF) is set to return for another bumper edition in 2025. The festival showcases the power of the non-fiction genre in shining a light on untold stories and changing the hearts and minds of audiences. In addition to screenings, CSDF25 will offer industry panels and masterclasses, providing invaluable opportunities to emerging talent.  

Ed Robson, Artistic Director and CEO of Macrobert Arts Centre commented:  

“We’re looking forward to welcoming audiences to Macrobert for this eclectic and vibrant season of terrific new shows. With award-winning acclaimed productions such as Black is the Color of My Voice and firm favourites like Piaf Revisited, this season guarantees audiences great artists and great nights out right here in the Forth Valley. This autumn, Macrobert's proud to be the home for the Scottish Dementia Arts Festival 2025, which celebrates the creativity and vision of those living with dementia. This year's Central Scotland Documentary Festival builds on the success of previous years with the most expansive edition yet welcoming films and filmmakers from across the world. There's something for everyone at Macrobert this season and we can’t wait to see you here.” 

Check out the full programme

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The Marbles, a documentary by filmmaker and Stirling 900 awardee David Nicholas Wilkinson, has been announced as the opening film for the 2025 edition of Central Scotland Documentary Festival (CSDF). 

Wilkinson, who screened the work-in-progress version of his film at last year’s CSDF, will return with the world-premiere of the dynamic finished work exploring the controversial topic of artefact repatriation. The film takes an in-depth look at the story of the Parthenon marbles, which were taken from Greece by Lord Elgin during the 19th century, bought by the British government and installed at the British Museum in London, where they remain today. Greece has been lobbying for their return to the country for almost 200 years.  

Wilkinson attempts to answer the complex question of how former colonial powers should endeavour to make amends for unethical activity in their history. He argues that Scotland should hold the title as leading country in the world for repatriating artefacts and human remains which were taken during its colonial past. 

Notable participants in the documentary include actor Brian Cox, Neil Curtis (Head of Museums and Special Collections at the University of Aberdeen), Patricia Allan (Former Curator of World Cultures at Glasgow Museums) and retired businessman Tom Minogue, who help to tell the story of Scotland's involvement in this pioneering work.  

The piece has also prompted a statement from the Scottish government, which is included in the film. Wilkinson maintains that this is far more comprehensive and far-ranging than any statement put out by governments anywhere in the world when confronting dubiously acquired artefacts. He argues that the example set by Glasgow City Council regarding the Ghost Dance Shirt should serve as a blueprint for former colonial countries everywhere.    

David Nicholas Wilkinson, Director of The Marbles commented: 

“Every filmmaker hopes their film will be awarded the prestigious opening night slot at a film festival. Not only am I thrilled that The Marbles has received this honour, but it is also gratifying that it is at the Central Scotland Documentary Festival, which has now become the only film celebration event in the world to screen all four documentaries I have directed, and also, because Scotland has become the hero of the film.” 

Grahame Reid, Festival Director of the Central Scotland Documentary Festival commented: 

“Getting to see the work-in-progress version of The Marbles was one of the highlights of CSDF24, so naturally the finished piece is the perfect film to open this year’s festival. I can’t wait for audiences to experience David’s incredibly special documentary.”

Tickets for the screening will be on sale in August 2025.

Opening film for Central Scotland Documentary Festival 2025 announced as 'The Marbles'

Macrobert Arts Centre announces opening film for Central Scotland Documentary Festival 2025

We are happy to announce the Christmas pantomime production for 2025, Weans In The Wood. 

Johnny McKnight will return in the role of the Dame, as well as writing and directing the production.  

The story follows Hans No Solo and his best pal Gretel, pupils at Merlina’s School for Magical Minors, as they fight the wicked Sheriff of Nottingham and their band of evil minions. Can Hans and Gretel stop the pantosphere turning into a deep well of despairing misery and agony (like waiting in the Primark queue on a Saturday afternoon)? Weans In The Wood is an imaginative twist on several beloved fairytale favourites, all coming together in a magical mash-up panto extravaganza. 

Tickets are on sale now with early-bird discounts for customers who book before April 2025.  

Macrobert are also thrilled to be welcoming back local family-run business Ian Gallacher Jewellers as sponsor for Weans In The Wood.  

Suzanne McLellan, Marketing and Communications Manager at Macrobert Arts Centre said:  

“We’re delighted that Ian Gallacher Jewellers will return as this year’s pantomime sponsor. Following a record-breaking year for Macrobert's annual Pantomime, we're proud to continue working with a local family-run business to shine a light on all the magic and wonder they have to offer. We look forward to working in partnership with the team at Ian Gallacher Jewellers to create another memorable year for audiences at Macrobert.” 

Ellie Gallacher from Ian Gallacher Jewellers said: 

“We thoroughly enjoyed sponsoring Macrobert’s pantomime, Snow White in 2024. The team has done an excellent job integrating our business into the on-stage scenes, as well as showcasing our presence through various media formats. The pantomime was not only a delight to watch, but also a fantastic experience to be a part of. We would like to thank everyone involved for having us on board and are thrilled to see local businesses supporting each other in this way. We’re excited to see what Weans In The Woods will bring in 2025!" 

Weans In The Wood will be performed at Macrobert Arts Centre from Wed 26 Nov 2025 – Sat 3 Jan 2026. 

Book Now

Johnny McKnight makes glorious return to Stirling for 2025 pantomime, 'Weans In The Wood'

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Macrobert Arts Centre has responded to Creative Scotland’s decision to award the organisation multi-year funding totalling £1,287,167 over three years.  

Macrobert Arts Centre was formerly one of Creative Scotland’s Regularly Funded Organisations, receiving a total of £950,000 in the period 2018-2021 and £1,230,000 for the period 2015-2018 as part of the Multi-Year Funding programme.  

With the welcomed announcement outlining the uplift in Creative Scotland’s Grant-in-Aid budget from the Scottish Government in 2025/26, we, as an organisation were optimistic cultural carnage could be mitigated, and common sense would prevail. Whilst we understand the complexities of oversubscribed funding streams stretched to capacity, we have and continue to deliver against Creative Scotland’s vision for Scotland’s cultural landscape, providing a vital creative hub for communities across the Forth Valley and beyond.  

Ed Robson, Artistic Director & CEO of Macrobert Arts Centre commented:  

“We're all relieved to have secured multi-year funding from Creative Scotland. After recent challenging times across the arts sector, we can now begin to plan for the future.  While we very warmly welcome today's announcement and the security it brings, the increased investment broadly keeps the organisation’s core grant in line with inflation since the last grant agreements in 2018. Financial pressures in the sector remain high but with the renewed commitment from Creative Scotland, we can step forward positively while recognising that significant sustainability challenges for Macrobert, and for the sector as a whole, do remain."   

Creative Scotland’s core strategy is to support people and organisations working in art and creativity to make quality work and unlock ambition that ‘enriches life in Scotland for everyone’ [Creative Scotland Strategic Framework]. 

In light of today’s announcement, we will adapt and move forward to ensure Macrobert continues to deliver this ambition and ensure people from all parts of society can access, participate and experience art and creativity in a space local to them. We are grateful for the continued support from the University of Stirling, who remain committed to ensuring Macrobert can continue to flourish for generations to come. 

We recognise that the Scottish performing arts sector is an inter-connected ecology of smaller and larger companies and today has also brought new challenges for friends.   

We stand with them to help in any way we can.   

Creative Scotland award Macrobert Arts Centre over £1.2million in Multi-Year Funding programme

Macrobert receives grant from Theatres Trust to increase venue accessibility

Macrobert Arts Centre is thrilled to announce the funding award from Theatres Trust Small Grants Programme supported by The Linbury Trust.  

The grant of £5,000 will go towards vital accessibility improvements in Central Scotland’s leading multi-arts centre, making it more inclusive for d/Deaf audiences. 

This funding will enable Macrobert to buy screens for the Mainhouse and Playhouse spaces to provide captioning and sound effect descriptions for selected live performances, ensuring that audience members who are deaf or hearing-impaired can still fully enjoy the show. The funding will also allow two screens to be placed outside of Macrobert’s Mainhouse and Playhouse doors to display show information and announcements.  

Increasing venue accessibility is one of Macrobert’s top priorities, and this funding will allow the venue to make live experiences much more enjoyable for deaf and hearing-impaired audiences. 

Lisa Robertson, Development Manager at Macrobert Arts Centre commented: 

“It is estimated that around 35,000 people in Forth Valley are deaf or hearing-impaired. We are so grateful that this funding from Theatres Trust Small Grants Programme supported by The Linbury Trust will enable us to increase accessibility in our venue, ensuring that diverse audiences can enjoy our offering at Macrobert.” 

Macrobert receives Theatres Trust grant to increase venue accessibility

Macrobert receives grant to increase venue accessibility

Macrobert announces 2024 panto sponsor as Ian Gallacher Jewellers

The search is over for Macrobert’s appley ever after, as family-run local business Ian Gallacher Jewellers become the headline sponsor for Central Scotland’s leading Pantomime.  

The unique partnership with this family-run gem will help to support Macrobert’s award-winning annual pantomime. With over 25,000 theatregoers set to enjoy Johnny McKnight’s hilarious festive treat – the collaboration between Macrobert Arts Centre and Ian Gallacher Jewellers further solidifies Macrobert’s commitment to working in partnership with local businesses to strengthen economic prosperity both locally and across the wider Forth Valley region. 

Suzanne McLellan, Marketing and Communications Manager at Macrobert Arts Centre said: “We’re delighted that this year’s pantomime will be supported locally by Ian Gallacher Jewellers. For the first time in our recent history, we’ll be working with a headline Pantomime sponsor to shine a light on all the magic and wonder they have to offer. We look forward to working in partnership with the team at Ian Gallacher Jewellers to create a truly dazzling experience for audiences at Macrobert”  

Ellie Gallacher of Ian Gallacher Jewellers, said: “We are super excited to be working alongside Macrobert Arts Centre as the sponsor for this year’s pantomime! We believe it is important for local family businesses in the Stirling area to support each other. It will be great to see the success that will come from this collaboration for both parties and to see what is always, an entertaining show!” 

Snow White is written by Johnny Mcknight, directed by Julie Ellen and stars Scot Squad’s Chris Forbes as Dame Nanny Maria Shut-Yon-Trapp. 

Tickets for Snow White

Macrobert find their Appley Ever After with Ian Gallacher Jewellers

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Handmade Festive Edition 2024: Gifts by Scotland’s Artists & Makers 

Following a successful year-round offering, the Festive edition of Handmade is returning to fill Macrobert to the brim with last-minute quality Christmas gifts - opening on Sat 23 Nov 2024 until Sun 05 Jan 2025.  

Over the festive season since 2015, Macrobert has hosted a sale of quality affordable Artworks and Crafts alongside our busy festive programme with a footfall of more than 50,000 visitors. This offers our audiences an opportunity to purchase original gifts whilst giving Artists and Makers access to new markets and additional sales.  

Macrobert would like to receive submissions from independent practitioners based in Scotland with original, high-quality work to sell. We actively encourage applications from practitioners at various stages; part-time makers to professional artists and are particularly interested in work that supports environmentally friendly practice and/or materials. Previous popular items have included: mosaics, jewellery, framed applique, framed & unframed artworks/prints, textiles, upcycled crafts and homewares, cards, and festive decorations across a range of price points. 

The festive programme at Macrobert for 2024 centres around Snow White and Santa’s Magical Lighthouse.  

The deadline for submissions is noon on Wed 16 Oct 2024.  

See Terms & Conditions prior to application. 

Image: Festive Handmade 2023, Faodail Studio - Alexa Anderson-Smith.

Callout for Artists and Makers - Handmade Festive Edition 2024: Gifts by Scotland’s Artists & Makers 

Central Scotland Documentary Festival announces lead film, Meet The Buchanans

Macrobert Arts Centre announces lead film for Central Scotland Documentary Festival 2024 as Meet The Buchanans.

The documentary, co-directed and produced by BAFTA-winner Barbara Orton, follows the historic inauguration of the first chief of the Clan Buchanan for over 300 years. Scottish millionaire Mike Buchanan and his wife and family are immersed in a hidden world of privilege and wealth, as the new chief attracts tartan-mad enthusiasts from all over the world. The film explores themes such as identity, belonging, and the place of the clan tradition within the modern world.

Co-directed by Barbara Orton, Jack Cocker and Darren Hercher, Meet The Buchanans is the lead title in Macrobert’s Central Scotland Documentary Festival (CSDF), which will be hosted at our venue in October-November 2024. The film will be coming to Macrobert fresh from Hollywood, where it has just had its world premiere at the Tartan Film Festival.

CSDF is curated and presented by Macrobert to celebrate creative documentary and non-fiction filmmaking. The full programme for 2024 will be announced in the coming weeks.

Meet The Buchanans co-director and producer Barbara Orton commented:

“Now that the feature version is finished, I can’t wait for festival and cinema audiences to witness a contemporary view of clan culture in Scotland in this film. This story explores the ancient clan tradition while staying firmly grounded in the modern world, narratively time-travelling without getting stuck in the past.”

Book tickets for Meet The Buchanans

Lead film announced for CSDF 2024!

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Central Scotland Documentary Festival announces lead film for 2024

Macrobert announces the full cast for 2024 Christmas pantomime production, Snow White.

Chris Forbes, known best for his work on the Scottish stand-up circuit and on the BBC sitcom Scot Squad, will tread the Macrobert floorboards as this year’s Dame, Nanny Maria Shut-Yon-Trapp. Joining Chris will be Tinashe Warikandwa (A Mother’s Song) as Snow White.

Macrobert-favourite Helen McAlpine (Maw Goose, Macrobert) will appear as Swanky De’Wharff, one of the seven unruly stepchildren of the evil Baroness Fantasia De’Wharff, played by Giga Gray (Bridezilla and the Orchard of Sin).

Tiger Mitchell (Aladdin, Perth Theatre) will make his Macrobert debut as Prince Rupert Charming-Darling. Kara Swinney (Aladdin, Macrobert) will return to the Stirling venue as Felicia Fennington-Farrington-The Fourth.

Rounding out the cast will be Olivia Adams (Maw Goose, Macrobert) as Understudy and Dance Captain and Ryan Towart (Aladdin, Macrobert) as Understudy.

Ed Robson, the Artistic Director of Macrobert Arts Centre commented:

“We’re thrilled to be welcoming such a stellar cast for this year’s panto. Macrobert’s pantomime has a well-earned reputation for excellence in the genre, showcasing actors at the top of their game. We can’t wait to see this cast in action in Snow White this Christmas.”

Book tickets for Snow White!

Full cast announced for our 2024 pantomime, Snow White!

Snow White cast announcement

Macrobert announces the full cast for Santa's Magical Lighthouse

Macrobert Arts Centre has announced the cast of Santa’s Magical Lighthouse, to be performed this Christmas at the Stirling venue. 

Alice Glass and Nicholas Marshall will alternate roles as Bailey and Boo in the fun-filled interactive show, aimed at children aged 5 and under.  

Alice Glass is a recent graduate of the BA Acting course at New College Lanarkshire, who has made her TV debut in Cbeebies’ Dog Squad.  

Nicholas Marshall is currently studying the same course, BA Acting at New College Lanarkshire, and this show marks his professional debut.  

Santa’s Magical Lighthouse is written by Andy McGregor (Sleeping Warrior) and directed by Daniel Livingston. The show centres on the magical lighthouse which guides Santa home after he delivers presents each Christmas eve, which Boo must get working in time to ensure Santa’s safe return. Audiences will be encouraged to become lighthouse keepers and join in the adventure, laughing and singing along with the cast.  

Daniel Livingston, Director of Santa’s Magical Lighthouse commented: 

“It’s so exciting to be welcoming these actors so early in their careers to perform at Macrobert. I can’t wait to see the magic that Alice and Nicholas will create for young audiences this Christmas.” 

Santa’s Magical Lighthouse is at Macrobert Arts Centre from Tue 3 Dec - Tue 31 Dec 2024. 

Book tickets for Santa's Magical Lighthouse

Cast announced for our 2024 wee show, Santa's Magical Lighthouse!

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Santa's Magical Lighthouse cast

MDrama kids' classes come home to Macrobert

Macrobert Arts Centre has announced that our highly popular M-Drama classes are making a return to the venue this Autumn.

Weekly classes catering for participants in P1 – S2 will be hosted in the Workhouse at Macrobert, beginning at the end of August.

M-Drama is an engaging course led by professional theatre artists, building knowledge of all aspects of drama through a range of fun games and activities.

There are three classes on offer, separated by age: M-Drama Mini (P1-P3), M-Drama Junior (P4–P6) and M-Drama Senior (P7-S2). Each class will be taught in a block of 7 weeks, finishing in mid-October of this year.

“We want the community to be at the heart of everything we do Macrobert and so it’s brilliant to be welcoming back our fantastic MDrama classes to the theatre. I've no doubt this autumn our Arts Centre will filled with the voices of local young people engaging with the arts and exploring their creative energy. "

Find out more about MDrama

MDrama classes come home to Macrobert

Macrobert has launched the full programme for CSDF 2024

Macrobert Arts Centre has announced the full programme for Central Scotland Documentary Festival 2024 (CSDF). 

A dynamic and eclectic programme of factual films will be screened at Macrobert this Autumn, marking the seventh iteration of the festival, which is the highlight of the arts centre’s year-round screen programming. Selected films from as far away as Canada alongside Scottish titles are among this year's offering, exploring a diverse range of subjects. 

Several films in the CSDF programme explore themes of marginalisation and how different communities and individuals react to it. Striking With Pride: United at the Coalface explores the fascinating story of the solidarity between Welsh miners and the LGBT community during the miners’ strike of the 1980s, a story made famous by the 2014 drama Pride. We Can Be Heroes follows a group of queer and neurodivergent teenagers at a LARP-ing (live action role-playing) camp, who find identity and community in this unlikely setting. Unbound sees a group of rebellious dancers defy the discriminatory ballet world by setting up their own radical and diverse company. 

The festival will also feature several documentaries which celebrate the lives of artists. A Sudden Glimpse Into Deeper Things is a creative biography of Wilhelmina Barns-Graham, directed by revered documentarian and University of Stirling alum Mark Cousins. Heartist explores the life and work of Sigrun Gunnarsdóttir, one of the most important contemporary painters on the Faroe Islands.  

As previously announced, the opening night film for the festival will be Meet the Buchanans, a fascinating study of Scottish clan culture in the modern world. The closing film will be Since Yesterday: The Untold Story of Scotland’s Girlbands, a powerful celebration of the great female musicians of Scotland’s past.  

Grahame Reid, Head Curator of the Central Scotland Documentary Festival commented: 

“It’s been an absolute joy selecting the films for this year’s festival. Each piece tells its story with creativity and heart, and we cannot wait to show these world-class documentaries to audiences from Forth Valley and beyond at CSDF 2024.”   

CSDF 2024 takes place at Macrobert Arts Centre from 31 Oct – 4 Nov 2024. 

Check out the full CSDF programme

Central Scotland Documentary Festival launches 2024 programme

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CSDF 2024 full programme announced

The universe works in magical ways. For me, the good news of achieving a degree in fashion design came at a bad time. The pandemic restricted opportunities in my chosen field but I could never have predicted that a little time and a serendipitous conversation could bring me to a career defining moment. 

Costume had never really crossed my mind, even though I was a bit of a movie geek, but arriving at Warner Brothers film studios for my first day as a trainee Breakdown Artist on Wonka, it all made perfect sense.

That first day at the studios was awe-inspiring. An American city street to my left and an emporium of vintage automobiles to my right, I was certainly entering a world of pure imagination. I really had no idea of the sheer scale of a production like Wonka. In costume alone, so many talented people bring the designer's vision to life. From makers to artists, to illustrators, to fitters there are so many cogs that make the costume wheel turn. I learned the fundamentals of Breakdown, which involved bringing life to garments, making them look like they have been worn, whether on a sea voyage or part of a work uniform. Being immersed in such a creative environment was incredible. I was living the dream. I had my Golden ticket. 

Two years on, I have worked on some incredible productions and am doing what I love. I recently took my Mum to a crew screening of Wonka, in London. Seeing my name up in the cinema lights with her by my side is a truly surreal moment that I will cherish. Wonka is the perfect film to see during the festive period with the ones you love the most.

Willy, like me, is a boy with a dream. With a bit of imagination and faith in the universe dreams come true.

Adam Clement's first job since graduating in Fashion Design was working on the film Wonka.

Wonka is on at Macrobert Arts Centre until Sun 24 Dec.

Baby Friendly Screening: Wed 13 Dec, 11.15am 

Wonka is on at Macrobert Movie Moviehouse Plean from Fri 8 to Thu 21 Dec. 

Macrobert Moviehouse Plean is our new community cinema based at the Balfour Centre in Plean. 

Adam Clement bags his Golden Ticket

It is with immense excitement and anticipation, that I am able to share details of the Central Scotland Documentary Festival 2024. As the Head Curator, I am thrilled to announce that submissions for this year's festival will officially open on Monday 5 February. We are inviting storytellers and documentarians to share their compelling narratives and unique perspectives with our global audience. 

The Central Scotland Documentary Festival has become a beacon for documentary enthusiasts, showcasing the power of non-fiction storytelling to illuminate, educate, and inspire change. This year, we aim to continue this tradition by curating an exceptional line-up that reflects the diversity and complexity of our world. 

We encourage both seasoned filmmakers and emerging talents to submit their documentaries for consideration. Whether your work explores social issues, personal narratives, or investigative journalism, we are eager to witness the multitude ways in which documentary filmmaking can engage and provoke thoughtful conversations. 

Save the dates as the festival is scheduled to run from Thursday 31 October to Monday 4 November. The Central Scotland Documentary Festival is not just an event; it's a celebration of the incredible diversity and depth that documentary filmmaking brings to our collective understanding of the world. 

To all filmmakers, your stories matter, and we look forward to discovering the narratives that will shape this year's festival. Submissions open on Monday 5 February, marking the beginning of a journey that will culminate in an enriching and thought-provoking cinematic experience. 

Join us in making the Central Scotland Documentary Festival 2024 a celebration of the transformative power of documentary storytelling. Together, let's illuminate the human experience and inspire positive change through the lens of documentary film. 

Head Curator, Central Scotland Documentary Festival

Film Programme Manager, Macrobert Arts Centre

Find out more about the Central Scotland Documentary Festival here.

Central Scotland Documentary Festival 2024

I can’t tell you how many years I’ve been doing this delightful venue, Macrobert Arts Centre in Stirling, but I’m pretty sure it’s over 10 years now. And contrary to the title of my show, Stirling gets more fun every year! 

This year, there are Eurovision dance routines, a Padam Padam tribute to the Edinburgh Trams, stories of Orcadians, Aberdonian dolphins, the magic power of being Glaswegian, an alternative Burns Speech, Elginites suddenly ‘coming out’, and a local postman offering Viagra! 😂

And this is, without even telling you, the gems I found in my audience last time I was in Stirling! Craig, the Joiner, who bizarrely worked for a plumbing company, who fell in fae ‘Fallin’, Angie the woman who accidentally lit up her face for the whole audience to see when her phone went off, two women from Blackpool and Liverpool who were definitely ‘on the pool’ 😂, Toby from Cambridge, who was studying PPE (which turned out to be Politics, Philosophy and Economics) and Big Ian from ‘B of A’ (Bridge of Allan) who got up, danced his ass off and delighted us with his moves! 

I mean, it’s no wonder I’m excited to be back! As I always say, Stirling is sterling entertainment! 👍

Craig Hill returns on Sat 10 Feb with This gets harder every year. Book tickets here.

Stirling Gets More Fun Every Year!

Our Creative Activities Manager springs into Spring!

It is officially nesting season for the Oystercatchers, who return each year to the living-roof outside the Macrobert office window. There are many who try to remain ambivalent but, most of the team become deeply invested in the wellbeing of both parents and chicks, against their arch nemesis…the gulls! (It really is that dramatic, trust me!) 

When the Oystercatchers begin to nest, it’s a signal that we’re about to head in to Summer, which is full of Creative Activities joy. 

We get started with the launch of Epic Art Challenge – this year themed around Stirling 900 celebrating Stirling’s achievements and history since becoming a Royal Borough in 1124, the perfect opportunity for artists to create work about Stirling past, present and future. 

Young Cast auditions take place, finding some of the most talented young people to join our Panto team, who travel far and wide to be part of our annual festive production. Did you know that rehearsals for our Young Cast begin in the Summer holidays? Yes, as August comes around, we’ll be singing All I Want For Christmas!

Summer is also the time when we get to head out to parks and green spaces across Stirling with our pals from Stirling Council’s Play team for Play In The Park. It’s such a lovely opportunity for us to meet young people and their families, in their place, giving them a wee taste of what Macrobert is. Come rain or shine, we’re there, getting creative…although we definitely prefer it dry!

This is a mere snippet of the fun we’ll be having this Summer, alongside a host of other free and affordable activities – doing what we do best, sharing our love of the arts with as many people as possible. 

Quite frankly I’m full of the joys of Spring pre-Summer!

It is officially nesting season for the Macrobert Oystercatchers

It's Officially nesting season for the Macrobert Oystercatchers

This December at Macrobert Arts Centre, we're thrilled to present a captivating film programme with something for everyone. For families and animation enthusiasts, we have the magical Wish, a heartwarming Disney animated feature that explores the power of wishes during the holiday season. Join us as we follow endearing characters on a journey of self-discovery and the realisation that sometimes the most magical moments are the ones we create for ourselves.

Continuing the enchantment, Paul King's Wonka invites audiences to step into a reimagined world of Roald Dahl's beloved character. This long-awaited prequel will captivate with its imaginative storytelling and visually stunning portrayal of Willy Wonka's chocolate factory. It promises to be a treat for both fans of the original story and newcomers alike.

For those seeking a real-life underdog story with heart and more than a touch of humour, Taika Waititi's Next Goal Wins is a must-see. This film follows the American Samoa soccer team's journey to redemption on and off the field. Waititi's unique storytelling style brings humour and humanity to a sports narrative that goes beyond the scores.

A beautifully wicked tale of privilege and desire, Emerald Fennell's Saltburn offers a change of pace. This drama weaves a captivating narrative around the complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of a picturesque setting. Fennell's storytelling and the film's stunning visuals make it a compelling addition to our December line-up.

Finally, no holiday film programme would be complete without the timeless classic, Frank Capra's It's A Wonderful Life. This heart-warming tale of George Bailey's realisation of the impact of his existence remains a holiday favourite, embodying the spirit of generosity, community, and gratitude.

Join us at Macrobert Arts Centre this December and get ready for a month of BIG screen entertainment that will entertain, inspire, and leave you with a warm holiday glow.

Christmas films at Macrobert Arts Centre

I’m incredibly lucky to have had the opportunity to be a part of the young cast in the Macrobert pantomime for 3 years now. Each year is so different and equally just as good. Getting the chance to work with a professional team in a professional environment, at my age, is something I could only have dreamed of. It’s amazing to see first hand all the work that goes into creating these wonderful shows that are performed each Christmas.

Members of the young cast have always got along so well as we all share the same passion for performing and I believe that this is what makes the show so special for, not only us, but the audience as well. 

The rehearsal period as well as performing the shows help to grow my confidence and I have developed my skills in singing, dancing and acting alongside this. The audition process is also very professional and I always look forward to attending it. If I’m chosen to be a part of the young cast, I end up counting down the days until the rehearsals begin and I get to be back working in the place I love and doing something I thoroughly enjoy.

I definitely wouldn’t be the person I am today without these opportunities or all the amazing people I’ve met during the process. I’m so grateful for the positive impact that Macrobert has had on my learning and understanding of different aspects of theatre and I wouldn’t change this experience for the world.

Aladdin is opening at Macrobert Arts Centre on Friday 1 December. Book tickets here.

I'm So Grateful For The Positive Impact

On 8 February 1926 a young Scottish film critic wrote a review of Moana, a film about the lives of Pacific islanders, in the New York Sun newspaper. Summing up the films merits he noted that “Moana, being a visual account of events in the daily life of a Polynesian youth, has documentary value.” In this article John Grierson used the term documentary to describe factual film for the first time in the English language. Grierson’s subsequent career as a filmmaker led to him being known as ‘the father of documentary’ with his work in the 1920s and 1930s setting the template for documentary film.

The University of Stirling Archives holds Grierson’s extensive archive of personal and working papers and to coincide with the 2023 Central Scotland Documentary Festival we are delighted to present an exhibition in the Macrobert Arthouse celebrating his enormous and long-lasting contribution to film culture (Monday 2 October – Sunday 12 November 2023).

Featuring an extensive selection of images and documents from the archive the exhibition focuses on two of Grierson’s key films, Drifters (1929) and Nightmail (1936) which will both be screened at #CSDF23. Grierson’s writings document the development of documentary through the decades and his views on some of the key developments in the genre will also be presented. In 1957 Grierson moved from the world of film to television, presenting the programme This Wonderful World. From his desk in the STV studios in Glasgow Grierson presented a window through which he showed a selection of documentaries from around the world. The programme ran for ten years and provided a weekly celebration of the documentary. The scripts for the programme record Grierson’s thoughts and opinions on the genre which he played a major part in creating and examples are included in the exhibition.

Grierson’s archive captures the energy and commitment of his use and development of the new medium of film. Writing in Sight and Sound magazine in 1933 he set out his approach to filmmaking, claiming “I look on cinema as a pulpit and use it as a propagandist.” The archive presents many images of Grierson at work, pushing the restless progress of the documentary movement from behind an imposing desk. The exhibition provides an opportunity to reflect on the foundations of documentary which will be celebrated in all its forms in November at #CSDF23.

The Wonderful World of John Grierson

Indeed it is as #HandmadeFestive is here. Now in its ninth year, it’s bigger than ever. Building on the pre-lottery funded refurb reputation of the Macrobert gallery space, a few of us hatched a plan back in 2015 to dedicate our Arthouse over the busy festive season to three Scottish based artists to showcase their work and sell their pieces whilst providing our audiences a chance to purchase a unique gift (or two) during their annual trip to the pantosphere.  

Since then, #HandmadeFestive has taken a variety of forms. We’ve had craft fayre days and weekends running alongside the month-long collection, a pandemic driven online collection in 2020 and last year, a pop-up selection from local upcyclers. The latter is a medium close to my heart and I’m in awe at some of the recycled materials used and upcycling abilities of some of our artists and makers. 

I am in my absolute happy place in our wee stock room like a caffeine fuelled elf curating and displaying the collection with invaluable support from colleagues - from selecting work, liaising with artists and makers, listing all of the pieces on the tills and, of course, selling to visitors and audiences amidst the festive throng. 

2023 is our most ambitious incarnation yet, showcasing 36 Scottish based artists and makers: 13 of whom have had jewellery, cards and prints available for sale at Macrobert throughout the year; 4 are returning from previous years, and we welcome 19 artists and makers to #HandmadeFestive for the first time. 

In my humble opinion the sheer joy of this collection is the range of work on display, hobbyists, emerging artists and professionals exhibiting alongside one another. On display, for immediate take home purchases you will find framed artwork, unframed prints, poetry prints, quirky jewellery, festive decorations, cards and homewares. 

Don’t just leave it ‘til the interval to take a look - come and spend some time in the space and browse the selection on display. There is a gift here for everyone, I’m sure of it. My trouble is selecting which one! 

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…

Handmade 2023

We (hopefully) bid farewell to the chill of winter and welcome the promise of longer days. With that in mind, I am thrilled to share our new film programme, which aims to delight and inspire audiences of all tastes and inclinations.

We are screening the riotous thriller - Wicked Little Letters. Directed by Thea Sharrock, this film takes you on a gripping journey into the darkest corners of the human psyche. With standout performances from Olivia Coleman and Jessie Buckley, Wicked Little Letters will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Macrobert News

Scottish Dementia Arts Festival 2025 to take place at Macrobert

Macrobert Arts Centre launches vibrant programme for summer/winter 2025

Macrobert Arts Centre announces opening film for Central Scotland Documentary Festival 2025

Johnny McKnight makes glorious return to Stirling for 2025 pantomime, 'Weans In The Wood'

Creative Scotland award Macrobert Arts Centre over £1.2million in Multi-Year Funding programme

Macrobert receives grant to increase venue accessibility

Macrobert find their Appley Ever After with Ian Gallacher Jewellers

Handmade Festive Edition 2024: Gifts by Scotland’s Artists & Makers

Central Scotland Documentary Festival announces lead film for 2024

Snow White cast announcement

Santa's Magical Lighthouse cast

MDrama classes come home to Macrobert

CSDF 2024 full programme announced

Adam Clement bags his Golden Ticket

Central Scotland Documentary Festival 2024

Stirling Gets More Fun Every Year!

It's Officially nesting season for the Macrobert Oystercatchers

Christmas films at Macrobert Arts Centre

I'm So Grateful For The Positive Impact

The Wonderful World of John Grierson

Handmade 2023

Thrilling, epic, poetic meditation, our March film programme has it all.

What A Joy To Be Back At Macrobert

Movement - A Culture on Campus Exhibition

Arts Centres: Crisis or Crossroads

Macrobert announces bumper Autumn programme

Macrobert Arts Centre launches Christmas Appeal to bring festive joy to Forth Valley

Picture Hooks is back!

Welcome to Creative Quarter

Feminism in Film

As we get older, we want to keep doing the things in life that we enjoy

We caught up with the writer of Dracula: Mina’s Reckoning, Morna Pearson, about her adaptation of the Bram Stoker classic.

The Munro Society

Homemade Film Mix

"it’s been an adventure to say the least"

“Thinking outside the box…”

"This tour is a celebration of trans lives"

That sounds like a difficult job

The excitement of performing and presenting at Macrobert continues apace

They bring something really special to our Live season

"How do I write for a local audience while telling my own story?"

"It's like Narnia... But better."

"Every day seems to have got busier and busier..."

Shakespeare: The Feminist by Linda Duncan McLaughlin

We Are Where We Are...

The Return to Tally’s Blood

Creative Quarter Gathering

It was quite a summer

We Don't Get To Choose What Happens

Here's some advice from one parent to another

Help Choose Macrobert Moviehouse Plean's Opening Film

Our challenge includes

Stories of Macrobert

Call me old fashioned...

I’m going to enjoy ticking it off my to-do list...

Never Apologise: An Exhibition from the Lindsay Anderson Archive

Handmade Festive Edition 2024: Gifts by Scotland’s Artists & Makers 