Elgin Town Hall homecoming for top Bothy Ballads contest
THE biggest event in the bothy ballads calendar is nearing a triumphant return.
After two years of virtual events, the countdown for the Bothy Ballads Champion of Champions 2023 is well underway.
Returning to its traditional Elgin Town Hall home, the singing showdown will also bring back its beloved interval stovies, drams and oatcakes.
The first tickets for the event have already been sold, as a rolling box office outside Elgin Town Hall has been doing a roaring trade.
Organised by the Rotary Club of Elgin, the event will kick off at 7pm on Saturday, February 11.
Continuing a 40-year tradition, the event has been sponsored by The Macallan.
The whisky firm have helped the Rotary organise the competition since 1983, when the Rotary hosted his first event.
Competitors from across the north east, many of whom are previous winners, are gearing up to make the pilgrimage to Elgin this year.
Defending champion Joe Aitken will be taking on other area winners Allan Taylor, Geordie Murison, Shona Donaldson, Paddy Buchanan and Hector Riddell.
Each of them are vying for the chance to hoist the winners porridge bowl and spoon.
Elgin Rotary's team leader for the event Graham Milne had warm words for Elgin Town Hall staff and other organisations which have given the contest a boost.
He said: “As well as The Macallan's invaluable support, the event has received support from Keith Community Radio and Walkers Shortbread and we have had very helpful support from the Elgin Town Hall personnel."
The night will be compered by experienced host Gary Coull, with music from special guest artists Bryan Gear and Martin Henderson from Shetland on fiddle and keyboard.
Tickets are available from the Town Hall Foyer on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10am to 12pm until the February, and are £18 for Main Hall or £20 for Balcony.
Click here to buy tickets for the event.
