Rebels with a Cause

Jacobite-themed weekend of storytelling, live music, tours, exhibitions and a quiz

In the same month as we remember Guy Fawkes’ rather unwelcome trip to the Houses of Parliament, that building’s Scottish counterpart is hoping for some friendlier visitors. Held over the St Andrew’s weekend, Rebels with a Cause is a mix of storytelling, live music, drama workshops, tours, exhibition and quiz, all exploring the Jacobite cause.

It’s also a great chance to see inside the Scottish Parliament’s remarkable building at Holyrood. ‘One of the things we work really hard at as an institution is to make people aware that this is a Parliament that is open and accessible,’ says Presiding Officer, Alex Fergusson. ‘And by running events like this, we can say to people look this is actually your Parliament, it’s open to you – come in and enjoy yourself.’

The four-day event ties in with a fascinating exhibition looking at the 1715 and 1745 Risings, and the impact the Jacobites had on literature and art. Included in the programme are a re-enactment of the battle of Culloden and a debating championship —illustrating the diverse ways you can win an argument.

‘The first aim for the weekend is that people who come along have a bit of fun,’ says Fergusson. ‘The second is that they learn something about this fascinating time in our history - and there’s something rather nice about learning about your past in a building where your future is discussed. And the third aim is that we have another satisfied group of people who will act as ambassadors and encourage others to visit the Parliament. If we can achieve that, it will have been a very successful event.’

The Scottish Parliament, Fri 26-Mon 29 Nov

More: Kids, Music, History, Jacobites, Parliament, Quiz, St Andrew's Day, Talks & lectures

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