You've probably heard the incomparable songs and poems of Scotland's National Poet, but have you ever wondered what Robert Burns was really like? Come hear him speak for himself through actor Karl Goldstein, at the Annual Robert Burns Birthday Celebration.
This popular event always attracts a full, lively crowd of Burns fans, Scottish, and early music lovers. Come join with everyone for some hot Scottish fiddling, great songs, poems (including the legendary “Tam o Shanter”), and conviviality, in a costumed, 18th century setting, performed by some of the Bay Area's best.
When Susan Rode Morris and Phebe Craig began to record their 18th-century style arrangements of Burns songs, which have been played to rave reviews on National Public Radio's Performance Today ("Between the Late and Early", and "Among the Lasses" on the Donsuemor label), they wanted to learn as much about Burns as they could. His hundreds of letters gave the most fascinating insight into who he was, and an idea was born: to make a performance piece, drawn only from his letters, to present Burns songs in a context where he would be present, through actor Karl Goldstein. You will hear Burns talk about his songs and his life, loves and struggles. You will hear the fiddle tunes that inspired him, played in the 18th century manner. The Robert Burns Celebration is pure Burns, with all his wit and bite, and heartmelting tenderness.
Tickets at the door – come early for a good seat and to hear tonight’s special pre-show treat: The California Revels' own Solstice Singers set the mood with some favorite Burns songs and other delightful Scottish ditties.