Heal & Harrow

The 16th and 17th Century Scottish Witch Trials were one of the darkest periods of Scotland’s history. An estimated 2,500 people were executed, 80% of whom were thought to have been women. In this new project, Rachel Newton and Lauren MacColl pay a humanising tribute to these women while also exploring historical beliefs in the supernatural and modern day parallels in our society.

Each piece of music is based on specially commissioned works by celebrated author Mairi Kidd - tales inspired by and in remembrance of real women who were persecuted and tried as witches, and characters from the folkloric tales and mythology enshrined in our oral culture.

Rachel (The Shee, The Furrow Collective, Spell Songs) and Lauren (Salt House, Rant) are firmly established as two of the country’s most celebrated folk musicians. They have collaborated on each other’s projects for many years, and this project is a perfect and timely opportunity to work together as a duo for the first time.

Their performance will feature newly composed music with accompanying visuals to highlight this fascinating and important subject.

Visuals at the 8pm include flashing images and projections.1pm performance doesn't include accompanying visuals or flashing images.

"Two brilliant musicians at the leading edge of folk - an extraordinary subject and a fascinating, wonderful-sounding album." Mark Radcliffe, BBC Radio 2

Venue Accessibility Info

Wheel chair access is via the back door of the hall. The carpark has several spaces near the backdoor which are for those requiring assistance and the accessible toilet is also at the backdoor. In addition there is an installed loop system for the aurally impaired and the entrance, hall, front meeting rooms and the fire exits are all on one level. If you require assistance please contact us on 01309 675333.

Bar This is a Bring your own bottle event.