Eventful Perthshire in May

Spring Watch Safari, Highland Adventure Safaris, by Aberfeldy (1-6 May)

Discover what’s out and about in the bird and plant world at 3000’. This amazing environment is home to unique alpine plants and animals and the views are spectacular on a clear day. Booking Essential.

Japanorama, Perth Museum & Art Gallery, Perth (3 May)

Join in this wonderful celebration of traditional Japanese culture with indoor and outdoor entertainment, demonstrations and activities. These include Taiko drumming, martial arts, dancing, tea ceremony, sushi and origami. Presented in collaboration with members of the Scottish Japanese Residents Association.

Rock the Catwalk, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (3 May)

New Seekers’ singer Eve Graham - famous for hits such as I’d Like To Teach The World To Sing will come out of retirement to appear in the show, while St Johnstone FC defender Kevin Rutkiewicz will swap soccer for singing on the stage. Other acts include Perth band Southpaw, dancers from Julie Young’s School of Dance, members of the Vale of Atholl Pipe Band and percussion group Impulse. The show promises to be a lively evening of entertainment, with clothes from top High Street names such as Austin Reed and Phase Eight on display. Rock The Catwalk will raise money for cancer charity CLIC Sargent, which helps children and teenagers who have cancer.

Perth Farmers Market, King Edward Street, Perth (3 May)

At Perth Farmers' Market on the first Saturday of each month there is an abundance of fresh ingredients and quality products. From slabs of fresh red meat and slippery oysters to green, leafy veg to home made cakes, pies and wines - you will find everything you need to create delicious meals. If you're not sure what you're after, need to be inspired or want to know more about what you are eating, have a chat with our stallholders who can advise on ideas, cooking methods and traceability. From favourite comfort foods for the family to new and exciting recipe trends for dinner parties and friends, with Perth Farmers' Market, you really can make a meal of it.

The Original Windows Live Concert, The Ship Inn, Perth (3 May)

Original classic rock band inspired by the sounds of The Beatles, Kinks, Stones and Zombies. The band will also play at Mucky Mulligans in Perth on 24 May.

Central Scotland Horse Trails, Scone Palace, by Perth (3-4 May)

An equestrian event featuring dressage, show jumping and cross country.

History with Puppets, Scone Palace, by Perth (4 May)

Hamish the Highlander tells tales of Scottish history. 20 minute shows will be staged throughout the day.

Daniel Smith Duo, Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Pitlochry (6 May)

Daniel Smith can boogie, swing and slam out slow blues like an old master - always crisp and note perfect, his adventurous approach makes him one of the best blues pianists on the European circuit.

Blairgowrie Highland Nights (every Tuesday until September), Angus Hotel, Blairgowrie (from 6 May onwards)

Every Tuesday from May to September this is a real taste of Scotland with a regular cast of Tommy Newcomen accordionist/compere, Graeme Thomson piper, singer Anne Pack and the Angus highland dancers. Now in its 11th year, this show has become very popular with visitors and locals alike. Some general dancing and raffle. The dance programme will depend on the audience on the night but usual dances include Gay Gordons, St. Bernards Waltz, Strip the Willow, Eva Three Step etc (on every Tuesday until 30 September).

Callandra Productions present Jethro Tull, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (7 May)

Jethro Tull released their first album, This Was, in 1968 followed by Benefit, Aqualung, and Thick as a Brick. The band’s success grew internationally, establishing them as one of the world’s top live acts throughout the 70’s. After 40 at the bottom, at the top and various points in between, Ian Anderson and Martin Barre remain at the centre of a group of sometimes changing but excellent musicians. Currently, Doane Perry, Tull drummer of some 24 years, together with John O’Hara on piano and accordion, and David Goodier on bass continue the legacy of Tull’s music wherever fans, young and old, want to hear rock, folk, jazz and classical-inspired music for grown-ups.

Lau, Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Pitlochry (7 May)

Multi award-winning band featuring Aidan O’Rourke (Blazin Fiddles), Kris Drever and Martin Green on accordion who together, bring a contemporary edge to traditional music.

Bellevue Rendezvous, Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Pitlochry (8 May)

This acoustic trio perform beautiful, quirky tunes from Brittany, Macedonia, Poland, Finland and the British Isles. Join us for an original, sensitive and lyrical evening’s entertainment.

Educating Agnes, Perth Theatre, Perth (8-10 May)

Sometimes in a dark and daft world where no one can be trusted, a man needs to go to any lengths to control a woman. This fourth collaboration between theatrebabel and Liz Lochhead is an electrifying and ribald new version from ‘Scotland’s greatest living dramatist’ (Scotland on Sunday), infamous for her adaptations of Moliere’s best plays.

Chimes International presents Jack Jones with his Big Band, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (9 May)

One of the great vocalists, Jack Jones makes a rare visit to the UK to celebrate half a century in showbusiness accompanied by his world-class 18-piece Big Band. Those five decades have garnered two Grammys, his own TV variety show, countless sellout world tours, regular Las Vegas engagements and 50 recorded albums (including 20 US Top 20 hits) — the latest a tribute to his great friend Tony Bennett. His stylish, elegant approach blends jazz, pop and swing to great effect on classic tracks such as Lollipops And Roses, Wives And Lovers, The Impossible Dream, The Race Is On, Lady, Call Me Irresponsible, What I Did For Love and the Love Boat theme as well as big band covers of more unlikely material like Light My Fire and Every Breath You Take.

Main Street Blues, Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Pitlochry (9 May)

An exciting four piece band who bring a mix of blues and jazz influences together to perform classics from legends such as B.B. King, Muddy Waters, and Elmore James.

Music in Blair Atholl, The Steading Blair Atholl and Cathedral Dunkeld (9-11 May)

A series of delightful chamber concerts given in informal surroundings (Fri - The Steading, Blair Atholl & Sat - Dunkeld Cathedral), Open Day of informal music making (Sun - The Steading, Blair Atholl). Artists taking part: The John Tunnell Trust - Some of Britain's finest young professional chamber musicians with their Professors, William Bennett (flute), Neil Black (Oboe), Richard Deakin (Violin) & Clifford Benson (Piano).

Crieff & Strathearn Monthly Market, James Square, Crieff (10 May)

Enjoy a day in the pleasant country town of Crieff and visit the monthly country market. The markets will feature a wide variety of stall-holders, from traditional farmers’ market produce such as organic meat, jams & pickles to crafts and giftware, including photography, glass & jewellery. Also with cooking demonstrations provided by local restaurateurs.

Scotland’s Knitting Only Show, Perth Racecourse, Scone Palace Park, by Perth (10 May)

Many stalls with a wonderful selection of yarn for sale and accessories for hand and machine knitting. Talk to knitwear designers, yarn and knitting experts. Lectures, demonstrations, a competition, fashion show and hands on area for hand and machine knitting, also crochet. Cafe and ample free parking. Organised by the Scottish Machine Knitters Association who will be running a hat competition during the day. The subject of the competition is Knitted Hats for Ladies' Day at the Races. Entries will be received until 11am on the day, any arriving late will not be included in the judging. Show your Scottish Knitting Show ticket at Scone Palace and enjoy discounted admission to the attraction (discounted admission cost £5.80). A small free bus operated by Burnbrae Garage, will run from either in or near Leonard Street Bus Station to the Racecourse from 9.30am to 4.30pm.

Scottish Country Dancing, Pitlochry Town Hall, Pitlochry (10 May)

An evening of traditional dancing to some of Scotland's best bands - Gordon Shand.

Festival of Nettles, Scottish Crannog Centre, Kenmore (10-11 May)

Special range of exhibits from Danish textile experts, hands on crafts and foods celebrating the multi-talented nettle plant. From string to soup, free facts and recipes - this event offers something for everyone.

The Official Scottish Motorshow — Knockhill Motorfair, Knockhill Racing Circuit, Dunfermline (10-11 May)

A fabulous family day out! Bursting full of activities you are guaranteed a fun packed day out with FREE Stunt shows, 4x4 rides, Skid rides & track rides!

Terry Grant will be performing his awesome stunts throughout the day and the Go Fast Jet Pack man will be flying over the show.

Burnsong on Tour, Perth Theatre, Perth (11 May)

This combination of amazing songwriting talent from diverse musical backgrounds first came together in 2006 for a special 5 day retreat called The Song House, run by Burnsong. Squeeze songwriter Chris Difford has been rightly hailed as half of the best British songwriting duo since Lennon and McCartney while Karine Polwart is firmly established as Scotland’s foremost singer songwriter. Emma Pollock recently embarked on a solo career after a decade fronting the much-missed Delgados. They are joined by acclaimed producer and electronica artist Future Pilot AKA, Glasgow hip-hop fusion vocalist MC Soom T, Edinburgh’s hotly-tipped Kim Edgar and Canadian keyboardist and singer Michael Johnston.

Perthshire Business Fair, Bells Sports Centre, Perth (13 May)

The 10th Perthshire Business Fair - Exhibition of Perthshire businesses.

Perth Races — Spring Meeting and Ladies Day, Perth Racecourse, Scone Palace Park, by Perth (14-15 May)

May's evening meeting is a special night at the Races and is the first evening meeting of the summer at Perth. Book your table with some friends to enjoy the hospitality and entertainment in the smart Office Party Marquee in the centre of the course. Enjoy a meal before racing at your own table, then party into the evening to a live band with a late bar. It's the popular Ladies Day on the 15th May , and in 2008 the competition will again be fiercely contested. Fashion and fun is the order of the day with a great prize of £500 of fashion vouchers for the “Best Dressed Lady” on the day presented by Jacques Vert and Planet . Bring your friends for an afternoon at Perth Races and enjoy the competitive racing whilst you are dressed to impress for Ladies Day. This is always a very popular meeting with plenty of runners and some great racing. Spring is in the air, the racecourse often looks at its very best. Jockeys are hungry (they always are) it is the start of their season and there are plenty of horses on the go. It is an interesting time for the dedicated follower of NH racing as very often good young horses come to this meeting for their final run before being turned away for the summer, a time for the notebooks to be out.

Wild Honey, Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Pitlochry (16 May—18 October)

When the young Chekhov completed his first play, he cannot have anticipated that a century later, it would be given a dazzling makeover by the author of Noises Off - nor that his youthful musings would be turned into a sharp, wildly funny midsummer comedy of love, lust and locomotives! The party to celebrate the return of Anna Petrovna to her late husband`s country estate attracts a motley crew: friends, acquaintances, creditors.... and suitors. From doctors to retired Colonels, landowners to horse thieves and merchants to Female Emancipationists, all walks of country life gather - including the local schoolmaster, Platonov. Once a radical student destined to become “a second Byron”, Platonov appears to have settled for a dull married life in the country. But Platanov`s seductive charm and ready wit are undiminished, a combination which can be highly attractive - and very dangerous. As the alcohol flows and fireworks burst in the night sky, the bees begin to gather round the honey pots. And while Anna Petrovna fends off would-be husbands, Platonov is juggling four women, fighting off a legal action (and a galloping case of the DTs) and evading a murder attempt or two.... Hurtling from farce in the forest to a steam-driven finale, we are delighted to open the 2008 Season in high style with the Scottish première of Michael Frayn`s effervescent 1984 comedy. In repertoire until 18 October.

Dip and Discover, RSPB Vane Farm Nature Reserve, Kinross (17 May)

Join one of our Field Teachers and find out what lives in a pond. All manner of creatures live in ponds, from pond skaters to the top predator the Great Diving Beetle. Come along and see what we can fish out, identify and learn about a ponds ecosystem. Advance booking essential.

Perth Gardeners Market, King Edward Street, Perth (17 May)

Stalls offering everything from bedding plants to garden accessories will be on display. Green-fingered visitors to the market can purchase plants and accessories to ensure their gardens are in tip-top condition. For a great choice of bulbs and blooms, be sure to pop down to King Edward Street.

Tinariwen, Shooglenifty & Friends, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (17 May)

Tinariwen - rebellion and rock ‘n’ roll have been strutting hand-in-hand for more than half a century, but only very rarely has their union involved real weapons and a painful struggle for survival. Tinariwen fought a rebellion in the early 1990s to win greater freedom and self-determination for the Touareg people of the southern Sahara. The fight was brief and bloody but it gave birth to a whole new style of desert music, powered by rolling rhythms and electric guitars. Tinariwen are originators, survivors, the Stones and the Clash of the Sahara rolled into one, and their roots rock rebellion of the soul is one of the most entrancing sounds to emerge from Africa in years. Shooglenifty - who better to pair Tinariwen with than Scotland’s own folkie renegades Shooglenifty. For more than a decade, they have been at the forefront of new Celtic music with a freewheeling blend of traditional tunes, world influences and irresistible rhythms delivered with blistering energy and a great sense of fun. Robert Plant’s guitarist and Tinariwen’s producer Justin Adams opens a terrific night of music performing with Gambian one-string fiddle player Juldeh Camara and Salah Dawson Miller showcasing their acclaimed fusion of delta blues and North African rhythms.

Cancer Research UK Race For Life, Scone Palace, by Perth (18 May)

Since it started in 1994, Race for Life has grown to become the UK’s largest women-only fundraising event. All the money raised by our participants helps fund the life saving work of Cancer Research UK — the world’s leading independent organisation dedicated to cancer research. So far millions of women of all ages and fitness levels have walked, jogged or run 5k to raise over £200 million in sponsorship for the charity.

Etape Caledonia, by Pitlochry (18 May)

The Etape Caledonia is a timed mass participation cycling event on closed roads. The 134km (83-mile) course will provide a stern but achievable challenge for up to 2,500 competitors, with over 2,000 metres of hill climbs in the stunning surroundings of highland Perthshire. The event will appeal to road racers and cycling enthusiasts, but will also be accessible to the fast-increasing audiences entering triathlons and duathlons across the UK.

Great Wee Scottish Walk, North Inch, Perth (18 May)

The Great Wee Scottish Walk is a popular walk for children from 2-16 years over a distance of 2 miles. It is a fun day - wear fancy dress and enter for your favourite charity or community project. Activities on the day include toddlers romp, teddy bears picnic, stalls, face painting, music, charity mascots and free goody bag and a certificate to all entrants completing the route. Further details of the route, sponsors, online entry and application forms are available online from the walk's website.

Music Goes Wild, Perth Concert Hall, Perth (18 May)

From the deepest, darkest jungle to a Wild West Rodeo, from the magnificent Lion King to a flighty Bumble Bee, join Christopher Bell and the Orchestra of Scottish Opera on a wild and wonderful exploration of the animal kingdom in this menagerie of magnificent melodies. Look out for an elephant, a lion and a tortoise from the Carnival of the Animals, as well as a Russian bear, a French cow and a whole Ark of other animals, all brought to life with some fantastic singing from NYCoS Choirs from Falkirk and Stirling.

The Clansman, Scone Palace, by Perth (18 May)

Come along and learn about the Highland Clans, their weapons, culture and traditions in the company of costumed characters. 20 minute performances will be staged throughout the day.

Duncan Chisholm & Ivan Drever, Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Pitlochry (20 May)

Back by popular demand, this duo perform fiddle, guitar and song! Their work has been recorded by Davy Arthur, Wolfstone & The Dubliners.

The Fiddle Tree present Fiddle Rendezvous, Birnam House Hotel, Birnam (20 May)

Featuring Bruce Molsky & Mary Anne Kennedy, Gerry O'Connor & Gilles Le Bigot, and Mike & Ali Vass.

Just Laugh Comedy Club, Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Pitlochry (21 May)

Compared by Perth’s own funnyman, Bruce Fummey, this comedy night will feature 3 or 4 original, observational-style comedians.

Perth Festival of the Arts, Perth Concert Hall, Perth Theatre, St John’s Kirk, Perth (22 May-1 June)

The Festival has its roots in classical music and opera but in recent years has broadened its range of appeal to include all art forms. Highlights in 2008 will include the English Touring Opera "Don Giovanni" by Mozart and "Anna Boleyn" by Donizetti and a production for Primary School Children of "Little Red Riding Hood"; Artists in Residence - The Nash Ensemble of London; The Russian State Symphony Orchestra & John Lill; Dame Emma Kirkby (soprano) and Florilegium; The Magic of Dance with Camilla Dallerup and Ian Waite, two of the professional dancers from the BBC's popular "Strictly Come Dancing" and New Zealander singer Will Martin; The Levellers; The London Community Gospel Choir; The Great Big Gilbert & Sullivan Show; Jazz legend Courtney Pine and his band; Sir Richard Rodney Bennett & Claire Martin; Radio 4 favourite Arthur Smith; 4 Poofs and A Piano; and Likely Lad Rodney Bewes.

For full programme details visit www.perthfestival.co.uk

She Stoops to Conquer, Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Pitlochry (22 May-16 October)

Mrs Hardcastle is determined to marry her decidedly spoiled son from her first marriage, Tony Lumpkin, to her glamorous niece, Constance Neville — if only to keep the fabulous Neville jewels in the family. Constance, however, has other plans.... which tend to involve the dashing George Hastings.... Likewise, Squire Hardcastle has arranged a match for his daughter, Kate, with the son of his old friend, Sir Charles Marlow. Neither the Hardcastles nor the bridegroom-to-be have ever met - so the Squire has no way of knowing that while young Marlow is hopelessly bashful in the presence of society ladies, he becomes a veritable Casanova at the sight of a serving wench.... Marlow invites Hastings to accompany him to Liberty Hall, the Squire`s country house. When the young bucks stop at a rowdy alehouse seeking directions, a well-oiled Tony Lumpkin decides that fun is to be had. Telling the visitors they can find rooms for the night at a nearby inn, complete with grumpy landlord and gorgeous barmaid, he directs them to.... Liberty Hall, their intended destination.... With its outrageous mix of secret elopements and nocturnal confusions, Goldsmith`s classic comedy has delighted audiences for over two centuries. A ribald and hilarious portrait of life and love in town and country, this promises to be a season highlight! In repertoire until 16 October.

POTFEST Scotland, Perth Agricultural Centre, Perth (23-25 May)

Potfest Scotland now in its 12th year continues to attract ceramic artists from throughout the UK and Mainland Europe. Over 100 exhibitors and 5000 members of the public will travel hundreds of miles to play a part in the biggest pottery festival in the country. The work on show will range from large scale garden sculptures to fine detailed ceramic jewellery and from fountains to teapots. Interested in the creative process? Seeking that little bit of inspiration for the house or garden? - Be prepared for visual overload at Scotland's most exciting ceramics event ever.

Atholl Highlanders Parade, Blair Castle, Blair Atholl (24 May)

Annual parade and inspection of the Atholl Highlanders and their pipe band by the Duke of Atholl.

Strathmore & the Glens Community Market, Wellmeadow, Blairgowrie (24 May)

Come along and sample some of the big county's tasty offerings or purchase some plants for the garden. Learn more about your community and experience a market town ambience. Also available - local crafts, homemade soap and yummy tablet!

The Scottish Open Volleyball Tournament, Bells Sports Centre & North Inch, Perth (24-25 May)

The largest volleyball event in the UK is now in its 24th year. Competition takes place on 30 outdoor courts on the North Inch and 5 indoor courts in Bells Sports Centre (Division of Honour only). Fixtures on both days for all teams and includes a Ceilidh and disco for all.

Atholl Gathering & Highland Games, Blair Castle, Blair Atholl (25 May)

Highland Gathering with piping, dancing, heavyweight events and tug o' war in the presence of the Duke of Atholl & Atholl Highlanders. Trade stands and refreshments.

Branklyn Garden — Himalayan Blue Poppy Day, Branklyn Garden, Perth (25 May)

Following on from the success of last year, we are holding another Himalayan Blue Poppy Day. This promises to be another great day out, with plant experts available to answer all your questions about these magnificent plants. Steve McNamara, Property Manager/ Head Gardener is doing a free tour of the garden. Tea & coffee, scones & biscuits available on the patio.

Jowett Rally — Scotland 08, Market Park, Crieff (25 May)

A display of Jowett Car and Commercials ranging from the open two seaters of the 1920s to the sporting models of the early fifties will be on display courtesy of the members of the oldest one make car club in the world. Owners will be on hand to discuss aspects of the various models. To compliment the vehicle display stalls, exhibitions and displays are planned to suit all tastes. Accompanied children will be warmly welcome. Members from Denmark, Australia and New Zealand are attending "Scotland 08".

Fun with Fibres, Scottish Crannog Centre, Kenmore (26 May)

This spinning, weaving and dying gala day is inspired by underwater discoveries of ancient rope and textiles. Try your hand at rope making, stick-weaving, make a dye-bath, spin colourful yarns or grasp the nettle to make string. Hands-on fun for all ages. Includes Crannog tour.

Highland Nights, Recreation Ground, Pitlochry (26 May-8 September)

Outdoor evenings of Scottish entertainment, Pipe bands, Highland and country dancing, Scottish songs and music (on every Monday until 8th September).

…and Chocolate, Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Pitlochry (27 May)

A Shirley Valentine style comedy thriller about life, love and maltesers! Jan has just turned 50, she's all alone, the kids have flown the nest and it's a holiday weekend. Faced with the prospect of defrosting the fridge she makes a decision which will change her life forever...

Blair Castle Celtic Night, Blair Castle, Blair Atholl (28 May)

An opportunity to sit back and watch all things Scottish in a traditional 'Celtic Night' featuring The Pitlochry & Blair Atholl Pipe Band, highland dancers and much more. A great evening of entertainment for all the family.

Malinky, Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Pitlochry (28 May)

Expect the foyer to throb with the beat of the bodhran, flute, fiddle, mandolin and Irish box and whistle as we welcome back Malinky with their striking vocals and instrumental flair.

Habeas Corpus, Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Pitlochry (29 May-15 October)

Brighton, 1973: having watched the Permissive Society erupt around him, middle-aged GP Arthur Wicksteed is desperate to join in. When the extraordinarily nubile Felicity Rumpers walks into his surgery, he is dazzled - only to discover that he is competing with his hypochondriac son Dennis for her affections.... Meanwhile, Wicksteed`s neglected wife Muriel plots an assignation with her old beau, Sir Percy Shorter, now head of the British Medical Association. Enter, at the same time, Lady Rumpers, champion of Empire and Felicity`s mother, who has her own unique memories of Sir Percy. Something to do with an Anderson shelter dur