Pupils from Barthol Chapel, Methlick, Udny Green and Tarves schools are preparing to take to the stage on Friday 14 November at the impressive concert hall at the National Trust for Scotland’s Haddo House near Ellon, as part of a project to put young people in touch with their local heritage.

The project ‘Keek Back, Syne Haud Gaun’, which is being run by the National Trust for Scotland and Aberdeenshire Council, encouraged school children to create a new drama and songs inspired by Aberdeenshire’s rich heritage.

Pupils were guided by Irene Watt, a PhD researcher from the Elphinstone Institute to learn research techniques and put this into practise by researching their local area. They took inspiration from what they discovered to create the drama and songs that will be premiered on Friday to an audience of fellow pupils.

The performance at Haddo House continues its long tradition as a highly significant centre for the performing arts in the North East.

Paul Anderson, the highly-accomplished North East fiddler and his wife Shona Donaldson will support the pupils during rehearsals and will also feature at the performance in the concert hall, which will include both traditional performances and new work.

Sandra Morrison, Group Learning Manager for the National Trust for Scotland said:

“Having had this in mind for a number of years now, it was a real thrill for me to see it brought to life. It has been an absolute joy to see the enthusiasm of the youngsters for this project. They have worked hard on their research and on their performances. The teachers and tutors should also be congratulated for their hard work and commitment. We are all very proud of this partnership.”

Education, Learning and Leisure Committee chairman Cllr Richard Stroud said:

“Aberdeenshire boasts a proud cultural heritage, and projects such as ‘Keek Back, Syne Haud Gaun’ help keep this alive. In turn, Haddo House’s long-standing links with the arts makes it the perfect venue for the performance of the finished works.”

Aberdeenshire Council’s Arts Development Officer, David Atherton said:

“This is a great opportunity for children to work with cultural partners to develop their latent performing talent! The tutors, children and school staff have been incredibly enthusiastic and the final performance promises to be both fabulous and beneficial to all concerned.”

The funders of this project must also be recognised for their contribution as without it, this would not have been possible: Tom & Thelma Wilson Charitable Trust, Astor of Hever Trust, Miss Anne Brooks Fairgreen Charitable Trust, The Mackay & Brewer Charitable Trust, Aberbrothock Charitable Trust, M E B Charitable Trust, The W M Mann Foundation.