A real royal occasion
Perth’s medieval past is centre stage tonight with a theatrical event to mark the 583rd anniversary of the murder of King James I of Scotland.
James died on the night of February 21, 1437 and in St John’s Kirk – close to where he fell and where historians believe his actual body may be lying – there will be an evening of performance from 7.30pm.
‘An Evening with King James I – Love, Blood and Blind Ambition’is a culmination of years of work by top academic Professor Oram, dean of arts and humanities at the University of Stirling.
He’s aiming to raise approximately £250,000 to begin an archaeology dig in Perth, hoping to find the bodies of King James and Joan of Scots, presumably buried 100 yards away from the great city kirk. A discovery like this could be monumental for the Fair City.
Tonight specially composed poetry, recited by the poet Jim Mackintosh will create the scene.
Jim said he was looking forward to the evening ahead:“I’m delighted to be taking part in this wonderful event in such a unique setting. I hope you will join us to be entertained and learn more about Perth’s history.”
Music will be performed by specialist medieval music ensemble Gaita, a group dedicated to performing their music in a medieval context.
There will be an interview with the critically-acclaimed Perthshire-based novelist Helen Grant, featuring excerpts from her book‘Murder in Blackfriars’, based on the king’s death.
Visitors to the commemorative evening will hear readings taken from James I’s ‘Kingis Quair’, performed by Professor Richard Oram from the University of Stirling and from John Shirley’s eyewitness accounts of the tragic murder of James I, performed by Dr Lucy Dean from the University of the Highlands and Islands.
Two actors – Matt Roberts and Flora Hamilton – are stepping into the roles of King James I and Joan of Scots to perform extracts taken from Rona Munro’s vividly-imagined and tumultuous play ‘James I, The key will keep the lock’. The work explores the complex character of James I, his behind-the-throne manipulations and a nation unwilling to acknowledge his regal authority as he returns from 18 years a hostage.
Actor Matt said:“The King of Scots is such a powerful figure in history. Having the chance to step into his shoes has been an exhilarating experience and one I hope to continue.”
Flora, playing his beloved Joan‘The Jewel of England’, said:“I adore Joan of Scots. Her history, her temper and the revenge she enacts when he’s killed... terrifying to research, so much fun to play.
“Joan is someone all of Scotland needs to know.”
Tickets are from Eventbrite, adults cost £20, concessions £15.