Walk the solar system - in Dirleton!
Take a trip around the solar system this winter in and around Dirleton.
Dirleton Primary School children worked with Heriot Watt University to create a scale model of our solar system in the village and wider area. Each stop in the solar system comes with a QR code and features a clear Perspex plate with a colour image of the planet, showing its surface details and appearance. Above the image is a silver ball to represent the planet’s size according to the installation’s scale. The sun can be found at the centre of Dirleton, while the furthest -away planet, Neptune is located in Archerfield Walled Garden. A billboard has lots of information and pictures that Dirleton's children made.
Dan Arnold, an associate professor at Heriot-Watt University, said: "At the Dirleton Solar Walk, our mission is to encourage children to discover a passion for science, maths and astronomy through experiencing the wonders of the solar system. We aim to spark interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics {STEM} in schools. Students are at the heart of this project, engaging with the installation and researching interesting facts and material to share with the public.”
Dirleton Primary School pupil Eilidh (age 7) commented: "Dan helped us to do some really tricky calculations and we helped to measure where everything would go."
Millie (age 9) added: “We have been really connected to this project and we have been involved in lots of activities including making Lego aliens in groups and creating clay aliens too.”
Watch this space!
Head Teacher Brian Moody attended the launch with some of the school's children, teacher Emma Teacher who was involved in the project. He believes that the project will be of interest to anyone who would like to could come along and ‘experience the solar system’ in our local surrounding, saying:
"All the children in our school will experience the Solar Walk and we will be devising some interactive activities for other pupil’s to enjoy as part of the Edinburgh Science Festival next Spring."
Find out more about the project and the Dirleton Solar Walk
Museums
Museums are a warm place with a friendly face
Free to visit, they have regularly changing craft activities suitable for children and families as well as temporary exhibitions and reference books available to browse and read.
John Gray Centre (Museum) 15 Lodge Street, Haddington, EH41 3DX.
Thursday and Friday 10am to 1pm, 2pm to 5pm, Saturday 10am to 1pm, 2pm to 4pm.
John Muir's Birthplace 126 High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1JJ.
Wednesday – Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday 1pm to 5pm.
Dunbar Town House Museum & Gallery High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1ER.
Saturday 2pm to 4pm courtesy of Dunbar and District History Society volunteers.
Random Acts of Kindness
A group exhibition following a series of creative workshops in late summer and autumn that explored RECONNECT RESPECT RESTORE. Our use of earth’s resources is wreaking havoc, we must tread more softly.
Nature journals, plant able books and botanical papermaking, nature writing, cyanotype & mono printing with nature, creative books inspired by nature and the oak tree’s community explored through natural dyeing, felting, spinning and stitching.
The exhibition is on until Sunday 26 January.
John Muir’s Birthplace, High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1JJ. Admission free.
Climate Crafty Christmas workshops
Be Creative, Have Fun – make stars, angels, all things merry and bright with old books.
Friday 6 December 2 to 4pm. John Muir’s Birthplace, High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1JJ. Suggested donation £3.
Booking essential by calling 01368 865899 or email museumseast@eastlothian.gov.uk
Ukraine/Scotland – Land Art & Photography Exhibition
John Gray Centre, 15 Lodge Street, Haddington, EH41 3DX
Open until 25 January 2025. Opening times at www.johngraycentre.org
LAND is the focus of this exhibition and what it means to people when it is the land of their birth, their own country. Many Ukrainians, for the time being, have settled in Scotland. As a group of artists both Ukrainian and Scottish, we wanted to record this brief moment in history and celebrate the connection between the two countries. We celebrate the land with photography, painting, print, drawing and some small sculpture. Although the conflict continues there is still the need to enjoy the beauty of the landscape of each country, a subject which has inspired artist for centuries. Group exhibition curated by Cathy Bell.
Find out more here
Images: Top L-R photograph by Vika Yasynska and Bass Rock by David Hutchison. Bottom L-R Land by Cathy Bell and Saturation by Ira Andreichuk.
Working Lives
Dunbar Town House Museum and Gallery, Dunbar Town House Museum and Gallery, High Street, Dunbar EH42 1ER
October to March, Saturdays 2 to 4pm
Display open courtesy of Dunbar and District History Society. Free admission but donations welcome.
Dunbar’s Town House or Tolbooth is more than 400 years old and touched the lives of many people. Through the Town Council, Police Station, Library, Registrars, Tourist Information, Housing Office, MP and MSP Office, Museum and many more!
Do you know someone who worked here? Have you been to a wedding here? The team would love to hear your stories and see your photos. Email museumseast@eastlothian.gov.uk
Step back in time as we help you discover the hidden past of this iconic building.
What's on at The Brunton
December to January
As the holiday season approaches, The Brunton is delighted to present a dazzling array of performances in Musselburgh and Haddington, that promise to enchant and entertain audiences of all ages. From the panto twist on the classic tale A Christmas Carol to the rock ‘n’ roll sound of Buddy Holly & The Cricketers our December and early January line-up offers a perfect escape into a world of magic and wonder.
Whether you're seeking a classical concert in a beautiful church setting or a spirited adventure with a modern twist, our festive programme has something special for everyone. Join us in celebrating the winter season with unforgettable shows that will leave you filled with joy and holiday cheer.
Behind the scenes with the pantomime chorus
Get ready to kick off the holiday season in style. Join The Brunton on Sunday 1 December, for a dazzling Christmas Light switch-on that promises to be a night full of cheer and excitement. The festivities will start with a magical torchlight parade, winding its way from the old town hall at 6p,. And as the anticipation builds, the stars of the enchanting pantomime A Christmas Carol will illuminate Musselburgh with a spectacular display of festive lights. Don't miss out on this joyous celebration!
This heart-warming production is perfect for audiences of all ages, offering a blend of humour, drama, and festive spirit that will leave everyone dancing and singing along! Watch as the miserly Scrooge is visited by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come, each bringing their own special message of hope and redemption.
Book your tickets now and make A Christmas Carol in Musselburgh and Haddington a cherished part of your festive celebrations!
A Christmas Carol – Panto in Musselburgh
Wednesday 18 December to Saturday 4 January at 1:30pm / 5pm / 7pm
A Christmas Carol – Panto in Haddington
Friday 6 December to Saturday 14 December at 1:30pm / 5pm / 7pm
Book your tickets here
Musselburgh
At the start of December in Musselburgh, get ready to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Northesk Parish Church in Christmas by Candlelight with Royal Northern Sinfonia on Sunday 1 December at 7pm. This enchanting evening promises to transport you into a world of warmth and festivity, as the soft glow of candlelight illuminates the exquisite sounds of the orchestra. The Royal Northern Sinfonia, renowned for their impeccable artistry and emotive performances, will present a carefully curated selection of holiday classics and timeless masterpieces.
Christmas by Candlelight with Royal Northern Sinfonia
Join us on Friday 6 December at 7:30pm for an unforgettable evening with the dynamic duo, Alasdair Fraser and Natalie Haas. Known for their electrifying performances and innovative approach to traditional Scottish music, Fraser's masterful fiddle playing combined with Haas's driving cello accompaniment creates a compelling fusion that transcends genres. Don't miss the chance to experience the synergy and musical magic of Alasdair Fraser and Natalie Haas in the intimate setting of Northesk Parish Church.
Alasdair Fraser & Natalie Haas
Prepare to be mesmerized by the remarkable talents of pianist Ignas Mackinas as he takes the stage for a captivating afternoon of music on Tuesday 10 December at Northesk Parish Church. Our final Bite-Sized concert at lunchtime of 2024 begins with an optional light lunch of soup and a sandwich at 12 noon, followed by the concert at 1pm. Mackinas, known for his expressive artistry and technical brilliance, promises to deliver an unforgettable performance that will transport listeners through a rich tapestry of classical compositions, set within the intimate and welcoming atmosphere of Northesk Parish Church.
Glorious Piano Music: Ignas Maknickas
Also, in Musselburgh this festive season you can be swept away by the enchanting melodies and festive spirit of André Rieu's 2024 Christmas Concert: Gold and Silver, taking place at Loretto Theatre on Saturday 7 December at 7pm. Known as the "King of Waltz," André Rieu, along with his Johann Strauss Orchestra, will grace the screen with a spectacular performance filled with timeless classics and holiday favourites.
André Rieu’s 2024 Christmas Concert: Gold and Silver
Continuing our screenings at Loretto Theatre in December is the classic tale of Cinderella brought to you by the Royal Ballet & Opera on Tuesday 10 December at 7:15pm. This enchanting production promises to transport audiences into a world of grace and beauty, where the timeless story of Cinderella unfolds through exquisite dance and music. With stunning choreography, lavish sets, and breathtaking costumes, the Royal Ballet & Opera's rendition of this beloved fairy tale is sure to captivate and delight viewers of all ages.
RB&O: Cinderella
Our final film of the season will be the highly anticipated adaption of best-selling novel Small Things Like These. This poignant drama, set in a small Irish town during the 1980s, tells the story of Bill Furlong, a hardworking coal and timber merchant, as he navigates the moral complexities of his community. With a powerful narrative that explores themes of compassion, courage, and the impact of small actions, this film promises to be a moving and thought-provoking experience. Small Things Like These (12A), will be showing on Wednesday 11 December at 7:30pm in Loretto Theatre.
Small Things Like These (12A)
Haddington
Haddington is set to sparkle with an exciting line-up of events that promise to enchant and entertain. Join us at the Corn Exchange for a memorable holiday experience filled with laughter, music, and the magic of togetherness.
Buddy Holly & The Cricketers take the stage at Corn Exchange, Haddington for one night only on Wednesday 18 December at 7:30pm. This talented tribute act will bring the magic of Buddy Holly's timeless music to life, delivering an energetic performance that will have audiences singing along to classic hits. Don't miss the chance to experience this incredible experience!
Buddy Holly & The Cricketers
Be dazzled as The Rocket Man – A Celebration of Sir Elton John comes to Corn Exchange, Haddington on Friday 10 January, at 7:30pm. This electrifying performance promises to deliver a night filled with the iconic hits and flamboyant flair that Sir Elton John is renowned for. As the festive season ends, this event offers the perfect opportunity to keep the celebrations alive!
The Rocket Man - A Celebration of Sir Elton John
To find out about more live events and screenings in Musselburgh and Haddington, in 2025 and beyond, please visit www.thebrunton.co.uk