Perthshire Advertiser

Rebus adds drama to Rankin’s 2024 date

Fair City appearance by best-selling author Ian

- STAFF REPORTER

Famed Scottish crime writer Ian Rankin is already looking forward to a date with a Fair City audience next year.

The ‘In Conversati­on With...’ event will bring Rankin to Perth Theatre alongside award-winning dramatist and screenwrit­er, Gregory Burke, on May 17, 2024.

Rankin’s Rebus novels have been translated into 35 languages and topped best-seller lists across the world.

He has written plays, standalone novels and non-fiction, presented a TV show and even collaborat­ed with singer Jackie Leven on a CD.

Brought to life in partnershi­p with the Scottish Arts Trust, ‘In Conversati­on With...’ is a series of exclusive and intimate fundraisin­g lunches supporting Perth Theatre’s outreach work in the community.

“I’m looking forward to visiting Perth and chatting on-stage with my friend Gregory Burke, whose play Black Watch changed the landscape of Scottish drama,” said Rankin.

The fellow Fifers will discuss the life and times of Rankin’s famed creation DI John Rebus, who Burke brought back to TV screens after a long hiatus.

Burke said: “I’m very excited to visit Perth Theatre for a conversati­on with the creator of Inspector Rebus, and world’s leading Fifer, Sir Ian Rankin.”

Earlier this month Perth Theatre and the Scottish Arts Trust’s inaugural ‘In Conversati­on With…’ event on Friday, May 12 raised over £6000 in support of the theatre’s outreach work in the community.

One hundred and 20 people enjoyed a Perth Gin drinks reception, a Simon Howie lunch and a raffle for prizes donated by local businesses 63 Tay Street, Dewar’s Distillery, Perthshire Artisans and St Johnstone FC.

Those in attendance were regaled by insights and anecdotes from Scottish stage and screen legend Alan Cumming with author Louise Welsh.

A book signing at the end was an opportunit­y for an informal meet and greet.

Vanessa Rawlings-jackson, vice chair of Perth Theatre and Concert Hall, who organised the event, said: “Our first ‘In Conversati­on With...’ lunch was such a success in raising funds to support our work with our communitie­s, particular­ly young people.

“Thank you to everyone who came, and to Alan, Louise and our sponsors, Perth Gin and Simon Howie, for making the day so special.”

Next year’s event ‘In Conversati­on With…’ Sir Ian Rankin and Gregory Burke is already on sale and tickets are expected to be in high demand.

For tickets and informatio­n visit perththeat­reandconce­rthall.com, or call or visit the Perth Theatre Box Office on 01738 621031 Monday to Saturday from 10am-4pm.

 ?? ?? Renowned Ian Rankin and inset, Gregory Burke
Renowned Ian Rankin and inset, Gregory Burke

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