Arts spree to boost town’s big culture bid

AN arts event in Paisley is offering a packed programme of live music, poetry readings and comedy.

The fringe event for the town’s national arts festival The Spree is part of the bid to be named UK City of Culture 2021.

Paulo Nutini will headline the main event with a sold out gig at Paisley Abbey with indie rock bank Frightened Rabbit and singer songwriter Dougie MacLean also part of the line up.

The Spree for All, organised by local music charity LNP Promotions, sees local bars, cafes and restaurants host a string of live gigs from October 14 to 22.

There will be a family zone on the High Street on both Saturdays with music, magicians, balloon artists and face painters.

Interactive theatre company Mischief La-Bas will also be entertaining the crowds.

LNP co-founder Tommy McGrory said: “There are street artists who will perform as The Elvis Cleaning Company and also perform a pedestrian Grand Prix.”

The Burger & Keg Live tent in Abbey Close will host Paisley’s Tom Urie who will appear alongside comic Janey Godley on Wednesday October 18.

Mr McGrory said: “The Spree for All is the coming together of the people who put live music and more around the town.

“There is something for everyone in the town and this year the quality and diversity of the programme is even bigger and better.”

The event also features a youth stage at Paisley Cross on both Saturdays, with local talent.

The Spree for All fringe event is sponsored by Paisley First, the non profit organisation set up to deliver a business improvement district for the town centre.

Chairman Ian Henderson said: “We are hoping to encourage as many people as possible to visit the town and take a fresh look at all Paisley has to offer.”

“Paisley has a vibrant cultural scene and we are delighted to support Spree for All in their efforts to take The Spree to venues across the town centre.”

For a full Spree for All programme of events see www. thespree.co.uk/spree-for-all/.