You might call me a Burns Night virgin. I knew that the life and works of Robbie Burns are celebrated annually by Scots but I had no idea quite how and why. Now, having been inducted into the Burns Night tradition by the Primrose Hill Community Association, I have become quite the enthusiast.
And of course, any celebration organised by the PHCA is going to be great fun, warmly inclusive and memorable for all sorts of reasons.
After all, I can’t imagine any other occasion that would showcase a world premier of a flamenco dance to bagpipes – which was utterly mesmerising. Then ‘Wee Jock’ staggered forward to perform a gripping and heartfelt rendition of Tam O’Shanter. Another standout amongst so many fabulous performances was an excerpt from Braveheart (I think) that was acted out with such fervour in front of us that I was frankly terrified.
The Toast to the Lassies was delightful; and former Bond Girl, TV presenter and entrepreneur Catherine McQueen replied with a Toast to the Laddies in the form of a charming poem she had written herself.
Sharleen Spiteri dropped in to read ‘A Winters Night,’ proving herself a worthy holder of her school Burns Certificate.
The haggis astonished me by being delicious and the hot toddy was welcome, but that was where my indulgence in whisky ended. Mr iLPH, entering into the spirit of the evening, had brought along a Single Malt that claimed to taste of Tarry Rope, bought especially from Nicolas. I stuck with wine, tarry rope not really being my cup of tea (or dram of Scotch, if you will).
Huge congrats to the organisers and here’s to next year.
© 2019 Joanna Reeves, all rights reserved.
Hi Joanne – thanks for the glowing write up, and so glad that you enjoyed the evening. My first time hosting @ PHCC, and first time hosting Burns too. But not the last!