ScotlandsFest: Northern Spirits, Restless Hearts

ScotlandsFest: Northern Spirits, Restless Hearts

Janis Mackay / Luath PressProfessional company

60 minutesHall
Join Janis Mackay, author of On a Northern Shore, in the fertile place where ancient Scottish folklore and new feisty fiction meet – where love is hampered by ghosts and the restless surge of the sea is always in hearing. A love story, steeped in Celtic folklore and set in the windswept coastal shores of the far north of Scotland, On a Northern Shore takes you right there: where the gull’s lonely cry and the seal’s song can tear your heart. Beautifully written. Unputdownable. Atmospheric and intriguing.

About the show

ScotlandsFest: Northern Spirits, Restless Hearts is a spoken word and storytelling event presented by Janis Mackay and Luath Press at the Hall at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Janis Mackay, author of On a Northern Shore, brings together ancient Scottish folklore and new fiction in a love story set on the windswept coastal shores of the far north of Scotland. The work explores love hampered by ghosts and the restless surge of the sea, where the gull's lonely cry and the seal's song are always within hearing. The show runs for 60 minutes, is suitable for audiences aged 14 and over, and tickets start at £10.

Why see this show?

A lyrical reading at the fertile meeting point of Celtic folklore and contemporary fiction, led by the author herself. Janis Mackay brings coastal atmosphere and emotional depth to a story the listing calls unputdownable — a warm, intimate Fringe hour.

Event Details

Monday 24 August 2026

All performances at 13:30

60 minutes

Hall

14 Johnston Terrace

View on map

1 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Ticket Price

£10 (7)

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the event run?

The event runs for 60 minutes.

What does a ticket cost?

Tickets start from £10.

What is the age guidance?

This event is suitable for audiences aged 14 and over.

Where does the event take place?

The event takes place at the Hall.

What is this event about?

Janis Mackay, author of On a Northern Shore, explores her love story set in the far north of Scotland, blending ancient Celtic folklore with new fiction involving ghosts, the sea and restless longing.

Are there any content warnings?

No content warnings are listed for this event.

About This Performance

ScotlandsFest: Northern Spirits, Restless Hearts is a spoken word performance at Hall during Edinburgh Festival 2026. Running for 60 minutes, this show is part of the world's largest arts festival, bringing together performers and audiences from across the globe.

Experience the magic of live performance at Edinburgh Festival. Each show offers something unique and memorable.

Venue: Hall

Hall is one of Edinburgh's Festival venues, hosting a variety of performances throughout August. Located in the heart of the city, the venue is accessible by public transport and within walking distance of other Festival locations.

Tips for Attending

  • Read recent reviews for audience reactions
  • Check venue accessibility if needed
  • Allow time to find unfamiliar venues
  • Download venue apps for digital tickets

Booking Information

Ticket Prices: From £10

Age Guidance: 14+

Content Warnings: None

Book early to avoid disappointment. Popular shows sell out quickly during Edinburgh Festival.

Part of Edinburgh Festival 2026

Edinburgh Festival transforms Scotland's capital into the world's leading cultural destination every August. With thousands of performances across hundreds of venues, the festival offers unparalleled choice for culture lovers.ScotlandsFest: Northern Spirits, Restless Hearts represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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