Dunfermline will be filled with lights, music, myths, legends and action next month, as it hosts the Bruce Festival, part of the Celebrating Fife 2010 programme.
The event, which runs from August 19 to 29, celebrates the life of Scottish hero Robert the Bruce, who is buried in Dunfermline Abbey.
Thanks to funding from Celebrating Fife 2010 and national events agency EventScotland, this year’s festival is bigger than ever and includes three concerts and a Son et Lumiere.
The Robert the Bruce Myths and Legends concerts on August 19, 20 and 21 each involve one of Scotland’s most acclaimed performers as Dougie MacLean, Karen Matheson and Dick Gaughan perform intimate concerts inside the abbey’s nave.
The audience will then walk with Robert the Bruce on a sunset tour of the ancient abbey and palace as Scotland’s hero takes them on a chronological journey, with dramatic outdoor performances, storytelling and a Son et Lumiere of lighting effects and music.
There is a chance for visitors to step back in time on August 28 and 29 at Robert the Bruce-Live in Pittencrieff Park.
Kings of Celtic rock Soar Patrol will provide the soundtrack as the Clanranald Trust showcases medieval camp life with hand-to-hand fighting by film stunt performers Combat International, who are fresh from the set of Ridley Scott’s latest Robin Hood movie.
There will also be battle re-enactments, an inter-national street market, children’s battles and have a go archery.
The Bruce Festival is a major event in the Celebrating Fife 2010 calendar, a year-long festival highlighting the region’s unique environment, cultural identity and lifestyle activities.
Beverley Reid, Fife Council’s Dunfermline area cultural co-ordinator, said, “The festival is a special 2010 celebration of the life of one of Scotland’s most famous and inspiring heroes, Robert the Bruce.
“With a jam-packed programme that offers something special for all ages, this medieval feast will be sure to inspire and enthrall.”
Susan Hughes, chief executive of Dunfermline Delivers, added, “This year the festival is timed to link in with other international events like the Edinburgh Festival and we’re sure that with such a range of entertainment for families, local and international visitors Dunfermline is a must for people’s summer plans.”
Tickets for the concerts and Son et Lumiere are on sale at www.visitdunfermline.com.