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Newsletter January 2004
Bliadhna mhath ùr dhuibh uile... Happy New Year to
one and all
Duais Comunn Gàidhlig Lunnainn
The
Council have for some time been searching for an appropriate way to
commemorate
the life of Ann S. Castle, former Treasurer, and previously Secretary
for many years of the Society. Ann was survived by Cliff; between them,
they were the Gaelic Society of London. Many avenues were explored,
but
the Council has found in Duais Comunn Gàidhlig Lunnainn the most fitting
way
of marking her selfless dedication.
Duais Comunn Gàidhlig Lunnainn (The Gaelic Society of London Prize) is
being established
for an outstanding contribution to the furtherance of the Gaelic language
and
culture. Because of its considerable significance, this honour will only be
awarded
when the Council is convinced that work of considerable merit has
been
carried out.
Alison Kinnaird MBE was commissioned to create a fitting trophy for this
prestigious
prize. The piece in blue, green and opaque glass, depicts a boat carrying
the Gaelic tradition through the rough waves of the world. Alison has chosen
motifs such as the Celtic cross, representing religion and architecture.
As
you will see she has incorporated the Society's motto in this unique piece.
Alison
has an international reputation as a glass engraver, and her latest work
will
be exhibited at the forthcoming Psalmsong exhibition at the Victoria and Albert
museum in London. In addition to her engraved glass panels, Alison has
composed
accompanying clarsach music. Many will remember Alison's last
visit to the Society for Gaelic Day 2002.
The first recipient of Duais Comunn Gàidhlig Lunnainn will be Malkie
MacLean. Malkie
is the director of the Gaelic Arts Agency, Proiseact nan Ealan and the driving
force behind Leabhar Mòr na Gàidhlig, (The Great Book of Gaidhlig).
The
book, in addition to being sold in that format is a travelling exhibition in
its own
right. The exhibition has to date visited Glasgow, New York and is currently
in
Edinburgh. Do
not miss the only opportunity to see this piece of artwork, which will be on
display
throughout the evening.
This special event will form the highlight of an unforgettable
evening for the Society.The prize will be presented at the Burns
Supper,
Saturday 24th January 2004 at St Columbas, Pont Street, Knightsbridge.
Tickets are available at Visit Scotland Cockspur Street, London
OR from Tommy MacAskill (tel) 020 7828 8978.
Council member Honoured
The Society's congratulations go to Archie Cameron who was awarded
the CBE in
the New Year's Honours List. Archie who hails from Argyle, is Director of
Operations
in the Fees and Allowances Department of the House of Commons.
Harry Nicol at the Royal Opera House
The star of our forthcoming Burns evening will be appearing in the
role of Major Domo
in Richard Strauss's Der Rosen Kavalier at the Royal Opera House on
April
13; 19; 22; 24; 27; 30. For a fraction of the price and with fine cuisine
included,
why not come and see him at our Burns Supper on the 24th?
POSH Burns Supper in Knightsbridge
In addition to the finest quality Haggis, tatties 'n neeps we are
offering vegetarian
starters and Haggis (organic meat free). We have Stornoway Black
Pudding and hot smoked salmon from South Uist. There will also be a
complimentary
malt whisky toast. Harry Nicol will entertain us with Burns songs,
accompanied
by Alasdair Nicholson on piano. Bill Innes will pilot us through the
evening's
proceedings ably supported by Tommy's toast to the lasses and Helen
Nicholson's
reply ( rumour has it that coaching has come from Germaine Greer).
So
expect sparks to fly ! Tickets, Ģ30, must be purchased by 17th January.
Future functions
Gaelic Love Songs from Roddy Campbell of Barra, 14th February St
Columbas, Knightsbridge
Oidhche Seann Nos (evening of traditional song) from Mary Smith of Lewis,
3rd
April, Crown Court, Covent Garden
Details from Tommy MacAskill 020 7828 8978
The Gaelic Bill - London Meeting 8th December
In a letter from the Chief Executive of Bòrd na Gàidhlig, Allan Campbell
praised the Society for organising the meeting on the 8th of December. The
meeting attracted
the largest attendance of the entire consultation process. Allan
enthused
" it is most heartening to find that the Gaels in London are
maintaining their
honourable tradition of such robust support for the language and
culture". Thank
you all for attending and for your useful scrutiny of the draft bill.
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