"The islanders have always loved legends - in previous generations, on a winter night there was nothing else for them to do but tell stories and play their fiddles. They told stories, of course, about their neighbours and about the Laird and Minister and smugglers and lovers - the vivid people who were part of their own circumstances."

George MacKay Brown

Via House Studio is where Scottish folklore and island myth come alive. Share in the oral tradition of Orkney; experience Scottish folklore and island legend via music, song and dance. Lynn Barbour has explored the folklore and myth of her home country along with other Scottish storytellers. We welcome other Scottish storytellers to come along and share their tales of folklore and myth.

The social customs of the Orkney fishing and farming communities underline the spiritual connection between people and the natural elements. Folklore and myth is not particular just to the Orkney islands, the oral tradition of storytelling is a worldwide heritage. Scottish storytellers have passed on the folklore and myth in their own dialect for thousands of years and still do. In Orkney, the language of the Norse and Pictish people, Norn, was lost. Only remnants of the old sagas and stories remain. We offer to you these island myths and legends, a glimpse back to the lost times of evenings by the peat fire.

"The enchanting tongues went on and on beside the fish-oil lamps. Then the grey of morning entered the crofts and called the islanders back once more to their hard work of ploughing and fishing".

George Mackay Brown

Cost

Peat Fire Tales evening: £10 per person. £6 per child.

Folklore Courses

Myths, Masks and Story of the Scottish Highlands and Islands - Embark on a journey of storytelling - learn and taste an oral tradition - open your eyes to the world of mask.

Folk Dance and Customs of the Scottish Highlands and Islands - Explore the character of Scottish folk dance and its place in Scottish life - discover the connection of folk dance and social ritual - enjoy the energy dance draws from human spirit.

Course dates by arrangement.
April - September - £395
October - March - £345
Weekend Courses - £200

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