Stirling Tolbooth up for major award for second year running

Tolbooth Stirling has been nominated for the Venue of the Year at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards for the second consecutive year.

John McCusker performing live on stage at the Tolbooth
Musicians such as John McCusker have given Scottish trad performances at the Tolbooth (Photo Credit: Heather Anderson)

The Stirling Council-run venue is up against Dundee’s Caird Hall, the Lyth Arts Centre in Wick and the Breascleit Hall in Lewis, to be crowned the best for traditional Scottish music in the country.

The Tolbooth’s technical team has also been nominated for the Stage Technician of the Year accolade in recognition of their work behind the scenes to support live music performances.

The awards are decided by a public vote which remains open until Sunday 19 November, with the winners announced on 2 December.

'One of the best in the country'

Stirling Council Leader Cllr Chris Kane said: “The space that Stirling Tolbooth offers for trad music is one of the best in the country and it’s always been a key part of the venue’s offering. Being nominated for this major national award two years in a row underlines the venue’s popularity among fans and artists, and its reputation for nurturing new talent in the Stirling area and beyond.

“The hardworking and skilled technical team at the Tolbooth fully deserve their nomination for allowing us to deliver such a high-quality programme all year round. Make sure to show your support for the Tolbooth and its staff by giving them your vote before the deadline on 19 November.”

Once the city’s court and jail, Tolbooth Stirling was transformed into an award-winning music and arts venue in 2002 following a significant restoration and redesign.

The award ceremony takes place on Saturday 2 December and will feature performances from Peatbog Faeries, Mànran and Joy Dunlop Band among many others.