Dundee

A campaign to generate a buzz for Dundee and the opening of V&A Dundee has received an international accolade.

The campaign activity to showcase the city and its new museum picked up a Platinum award at the HSMAI Adrian Awards on Tuesday (21 January) at the New York Marriott Marquis. Now in their 63rd year, the prestigious Adrian Awards recognise creativity and innovation in advertising, digital marketing and public relations.

Submitted by VisitScotland, the award entry was entitled "The Comeback Kid: Dundee - How Scotland's Fourth Largest City Became The King of Cool" and highlighted the increase in visitors to the city as well as key placements in target US media including New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Forbes and Vogue.

There were more than 1,100 entries for this year’s awards with all submissions eligible to win at the Gold, Silver and Bronze levels. Gold winning entries which were judged to be exceptional received Platinum status.

The award comes after independent research revealed V&A Dundee had a £75 million economic impact across Scotland in its first year. The study also found the museum had a £21 million impact on Dundee and created an estimated 370 new jobs in Dundee.

Opening in September 2018, V&A Dundee has shone a global spotlight on Dundee as a city of design, creativity and heritage. It welcomed over 833,000 visitors in its first year and has won a host of awards including a place on TIME Magazine’s list of ‘2019’s Greatest Places’.

From the initial conception to the opening of the museum, the museum represents over a decade of innovation, passion and dedication from its founding partners, funders and Dundee’s tourism industry. VisitScotland worked with key partners to ensure the city and country maximised the benefits brought by the new attraction.

VisitScotland’s marketing activity targets segments of key markets across the world to showcase Scotland’s visitor offering and give the country a renowned presence in the global marketplace to ensure the benefits of tourism are felt across the nation.

Caroline Warburton, VisitScotland Regional Leadership Director, said: “I’m delighted to see the work to showcase Dundee and V&A Dundee to the world has been recognised at the HSMAI Adrian Awards. The passion, innovation and hard work of Scotland’s tourism industry has been integral to the city and the attraction’s phenomenal success.

“At VisitScotland everything we do is about showcasing a destination and visitor experience worth talking about through innovative marketing, partnerships and events to inspire visitors to spend more time and money across the country.”

Philip Long, Director of V&A Dundee, said: “To receive such a prestigious award is a great recognition of the global impact V&A Dundee has already had, in creating a major new international cultural centre and in promoting Dundee and Scotland as world-class tourism destinations.”

Councillor John Alexander, leader of Dundee City Council, said: “This award is fantastic recognition of all the work which has been done by ‘team Dundee’ to put the city in the international spotlight.

“People from around the world are discovering what we locals know – that Dundee is a really cool place to live, work, play and visit.

“The buzz that has been created has helped bring visitors in record numbers, contributing millions of pounds to the local economy and supporting thousands of jobs.

“We’ll continue to shout about our city and encourage people to not only visit but stay for a while and discover the culture, adventure, nightlife and so much more that Dundee has to offer.”

To learn more about the HSMAI Adrian Awards go to https://adrianawards.hsmai.org/  

To find out more about Dundee and V&A Dundee go to www.visitscotland.com/destinationsmaps/dundee/  

For more information on VisitScotland and its work to grow tourism sustainably across Scotland, go to www.visitscotland.org

The “coolest little city,” the UNESCO City of Design and the home of jute production. We have design and fashion running through the veins of Dundee. With such a rich textile history, the city was already set to be a fashion centre in Scotland. Now, design institutes and successful contemporary fashion designers born and or based in the city, have continued the momentum that started over a century ago.

Jute may have been the beginning of the fashion journey in the city, even earning Dundee the name ‘Juteopolis’ in the 1900s. It started at the beginning of the industrial revolution. The burgeoning British Empire brought the trade of flax, which began the development of jute. It was a coarse material to begin with, only used for packaging and burlap sacks. Many years of refining the process in the mills of the city however, transformed the material into something coveted in couture brands the world over. Major fashion houses such as Balmain and Donna Karen have been known to use the ‘golden fibre’ on the catwalk. After cotton, it’s the cheapest fibre to use but more importantly is sustainable and eco-friendly, which is why you might find it cropping back up in a modern world, centred on environmentalism.

Not only is the production of fabric an accolade the city can be proud of, UNESCO recognised the city’s design expertise in 2014. It was recognised then, and still is today that Dundee has a contemporary creative scene with an expertise in fashion. The 2012 winner of 'Scottish Young Designer of the Year’ Hayley Scanlan was born in the city and has dressed pop culture queens such as Little Mix, Pixie Lott, Jessie J and more. She went on to win the award once again in 2014, making her the only designer to win the title twice.  

Many other designers have emerged on catwalks from Dundee including Dreamland clothing whose line was requested exclusively by online fashion giants ASOS and Forever 21. Wilde Mode is a brand specialising in underwear for comfort that promotes body positivity and confidence. These amongst many others contribute to the flourishing fashion culture alive and thriving here. 

In 2018, Dundee hosted its own fashion week, celebrating up-and-coming designers. It championed the city’s artists, fashion designers, bloggers and jewellery designers. The V&A also honours the cities fashion heritage by hosting workshops and exhibitions. Last year the work of designer Nicholas Daley was exhibited in the museum, showing his creative workspace and how his Scottish-Jamaican heritage influenced his work. As of April this year, Mary Quant, whose iconic, sixties Mod style contributed to changing the face of fashion worldwide, will be exhibited.

Dundee has always and will continue to be the coolest little city, most likely because of its long standing connection with fashion. The future looks bright for the already successful designers affiliated with the city.

The food and drink scene in Dundee has an eclectic vibe, with many choices to dine out any day or night of the week. Between cultural and quirky cafes, wholefood shops and exquisite restaurants of varying themes and cuisines, there is an abundance of choice for all.

This list of the top ten restaurants, chosen by customers, is dominated by independent outlets, which shows the local affinity for food and service. Heart, soul, quality and imagination are poured into the food served here every day.

 1. Gidi Grill

The food and atmosphere here is Caribbean, African, Barbecue, and Jamaican.

Tripadvisor describes it as “a grill restaurant fusing the most delicious sauces from all over the world cooked over a Josper charcoal grill with a great selection of sides in a warm and beautiful setting.” A recent review states that it is “a great fusion of West African and Caribbean food in the heart of Dundee Quay.” The City Quay area is a picturesque waterscape, home to great restaurants and other businesses - well worth a walk to take in the sights!

 2. Sol y Sombra

It may not be situated in the Costa del Sol but this little taste of Spain is located just yards from the shore in Broughty Ferry. Its food and atmosphere are described as Mediterranean, European and Spanish.

One reviewer calls this place the “best restaurant in Scotland” and another describes an “amazing dinner” and “such a great experience.” With these reviews it sounds like reservations should be made rápido!

Broughty Ferry is just a few miles from the city centre and has many quaint and charming cafes and restaurants. Many like to take a bike down the scenic cycle path that runs the whole way along the waterfront. 

 3. Collinson’s Restaurant

Another Broughty Ferry favourite, Collinson's offers European, British, Scottish and contemporary cuisines. 

The photos of the food are works of art, with a distinct feel of fine dining. Their reviewers like that it’s family friendly and were unsurprised at how busy it was as they “had great food and excellent service.” Another was bowled over by the “excellent service coupled with outstanding food” and continue to say it’s “a must visit for any foodies.”

The food scene is ever-changing in and around the city. Now more than ever local produce is at the heart of menus, showcasing wonderful delicacies we have right on our doorstep.

 . Tahini

This lovely tapas restaurant is right in the heart of Dundee and its menu features Lebanese, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern Cuisine. 

The reviews of very recent visits brim with love for the place. ‘Fantastic Food” says one, which goes on to say the food “left you full.” Nothing better than good food and abundance of it! Another review says that it’s “easy to find and that everything was also “totally yummy.”

Off one of the main pedestrian area in the city, Tahini is a fine example of some of the exciting eateries you can find around town. 

 5 The Palais Tea Room

 The first of three cafes to make Dundee’s top ten, the Palais Tea Room serves Scottish cuisine.

Reviewers loved the Afternoon Tea and “had a lovely time” there. Many speak of the “friendly staff” which is perfect for when you need a happy face to brighten your day on a visit to a new city

The street The Palais Tea Room is on showcases a gorgeous view of the V&A, RRS Discovery and the river Tay.

6. Piccolo

Italian, Mediterranean and local cuisine make Perth Road’s Piccolo a must visit, just minutes from the very centre of town. This little place also offers “after-hours” perfect for night owls. 

Described as ”a fantastic little gem” and "consistently good” by one diner and a “small friendly establishment with great customer service and great food” by another, Piccolo is a favourite for everyone it seems.

The Perth Road is a foodie route of delight. Many independent, quirky cafes, restaurants and bakeries can be found there, as well as organic greengrocers.

 7. The Flame Tree Café

This little Australian café also offers British and Scottish food. The pictures alone are like the country itself; vibrant, enticing and colourful. (There is a rainbow bagel so Instagram-worthy it should be ordered on every visit.)

People rave about these bagels throughout the reviews - “fantastic coffee and rainbow bagels” - and that they “look fantastic and taste better.” One reviewer also stated that “my boyfriend said it’s the best bacon roll he’s ever had (and he has a lot of them).” Who better to take advice from than a bacon roll connoisseur?

The Flame Tree is just one example of the multi-cultural cuisine scene the city has. 

 8. Rancho Pancho

Their cuisine simply says “Mexican,” - no messing there. From the reviews and photos, it looks like they’re getting that right too!

The reviews gush with adoration for this small Mexican restaurant: “extremely happy with the food, service and ambience” said one, “favourite restaurant to visit” said another, while someone else mentions their “amazing cocktails.” It seems Dundee has its own piece of Mexico just a few minutes walk from the train station and waterfront!

The waterfront also provides a perfect stroll for after dinner bloating!

 9. Brasserie Ecosse

It’s veggie, vegan and gluten-free friendly. Judging by the reviewers' pictures though, they are doing every cuisine right.

Visitors love their brunch, saying it’s a “great price for what you get.” Another review said that it is “5-star service” and they “can’t wait to return to Dundee and try them for dinner!” It is described as a “Dundee delight.”

Did you know Dundee has a thriving brunch scene? Sundays are particularly busy with brunchers munching all over the city, from the Westport to The Cowgate. 

 10. Simpsons

Simpsons is a Scottish, British and international café. 

The reviews comment on its “nice vibe” and "cosiness." Someone even called it the “best place ever.” Just minutes from the waterfront and V&A as well as the city centre, this small café has good reason to make the top ten eateries in Dundee.

 For more information and reviews on Dundee’s food, visit https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Restaurants-g186518-Dundee_Scotland.html

Huge congratulations as Golden Globes were awarded to the media dynasty drama, ‘Succession’ and lead actor Brian Cox, who hails from Dundee. The series filmed at the iconic V&A Dundee for Season 2 with Scotland-based episodes first appearing on screen in September 2019 on HBO, Sky Atlantic and Now TV.

The 77th Golden Globes took place on Sunday, 5th January 2020.

Emmy Award-Winning Scottish actor Brian Cox (Medici, War & Peace, Churchill) returned to his roots, like his character Logan Roy. 

Created by Academy Award nominee Jesse Armstong (Fresh Meat, In The Loop, Peep Show), Succession tracks the lives of the Roy family as they contemplate their future once their aging father (Brian Cox) begins to step back from the media and entertainment conglomerate they control. Beginning where season one dramatically left off, season two follows the Roy family as they struggle to retain control of their empire, and while the future looks increasingly uncertain, it is the past that threatens to ultimately destroy them.

The series also stars Matthew MacFadyen (Ripper Street, Howard's End, Pride & Prejudice) and Sarah Snook (The Glass Castle, Winchester, Black Mirror).

The production was supported by Screen Scotland’s Production Growth Fund and was also a brilliant opportunity for work experience for students of Screen Academy Scotland’s Screen NETs Programme.

Succession brought Production Manager, Donald MacKinnon and Location Manager, Martin Henderson to the region. TayScreen, the screen office for the Councils of Dundee City and Perth & Kinross Council were delighted to welcome the team and provide support.

V&A Dundee is an iconic new museum of design on the city’s Tay River Waterfront. It’s the first V&A outside London and its unique ship-shaped architecture reflects the city’s links with sea. It’s right next to the Polar exploration sailing ship of Captain Scott, Discovery.

Subscribers can watch Succession on HBO or Sky Atlantic.

Fife Tay based photographer Moira Lavigillante caught a few impressions of production behind the scenes at V&A Dundee.

Dundee Airport will offer direct flights to and from Belfast and London City from early next year.

Loganair is switching its existing Dundee service from Stansted to London City, and increasing the number of seats available.

The air link to the capital is supported by a Public Service Obligation (PSO) which protects routes that boost tourism, connect the UK and encourage economic growth.

The route is backed by funding from the government, Transport Scotland and Dundee City Council.

A larger aircraft will be deployed when flights move to London City from March 29, 2020.

An ATR 42-500 will replace the Saab 340 presently used to Stansted, increasing seat capacity from 33 to 48 seats on every flight.

The new aircraft will also cut carbon emissions per passenger by around 30% against the Saab 340.

The lead-in fare is being cut by £10 to £59.99 each way. The new Dundee-London City route will be served by two flights in each direction on weekdays and one on Sundays.

The carrier is also resuming year-round flights between Dundee and Belfast City from April 2 – the first between the two cities since the end of a previous service in 2012.

Fares start at £44.99 one way with up to six flights a week in summer and three a week during the winter.

Loganair chief executive Jonathan Hinkles said: “There are real benefits for our customers in this move to fly directly into UK’s capital, not least being the reduced travel time to the heart of the city.

“London City Airport is only ten minutes from Canary Wharf and 30 minutes from central London. It’s a substantial time saving on the Stansted Express journey.”

Mark Flynn, deputy convener of Dundee City Council’s city development committee, said: “The announcement of these routes to and from Dundee into the heart of London and Belfast are attractive propositions for business and leisure travellers, making it quick and easy for them to get directly to and from the city.

“Our air link with the UK’s commercial centre is an important part of our travel infrastructure and a positive piece in the delivery of a strong and sustainable economy that will provide jobs, retain graduates and make Dundee a magnet for new talent.”

Dundee has won in the UK’s first national Staycation Awards and is now officially the best city in Britain to enjoy a holiday, weekend away or short break without leaving the country!

“We’re thrilled to have won the City Staycation of the Year in the i Staycation Awards,” said Councillor Mark Flynn, on behalf of Dundee, One City Many Discoveries. “We were up against very stiff competition, with the holiday hotspots of York, Brighton & Hove and Bath also being shortlisted for this award.

“In the last few years, Dundee has emerged as one of the most vibrant cities in the country for a staycation. Widely known as Scotland’s coolest – and sunniest – city, Dundee combines the best of contemporary culture, inspiring architecture and a rich historical heritage with fabulous food and drink, good transport links, a great choice of places to stay and a fantastic selection of things to do.”

The i Staycation Awards are a nationwide search for the country’s best loved holiday spots, and the winners were announced on November 21 at a glittering awards ceremony in London by The One Show and Countryfile presenter Matt Baker. Launched by i Newspaper and holidaycottages.co.uk, the awards have 17 categories, ensuring all types of UK staycation are covered, including city breaks, country escapes, family seaside holidays and dog-friendly getaways.

Councillor Flynn, Depute Convener City Development, Dundee City Council revealed that winning the city category of the Staycation Awards is recognition of the success of the city’s vision to make Dundee one of the best small cites in the UK for a cultural short break. “We’ve focused on collectively telling the story of our city’s transformation from industrial centre to cultural capital – an approach which appears to be working.

“Well over one million people visited our city in 2018, with a 19% increase in visitors to Dundee in the first six months of 2019.

“Our spectacular waterfront setting is now home to V&A Dundee, Scotland’s first design museum, which has already given our city a £187 million tourism boost, as well as a green public space hosting everything from outdoor music gigs to free exercise classes.

“Many exciting new activities have been developed by local businesses and individuals, such as walking tours, wakeboarding in the docks, scenic trips around the area on a vintage bus and dolphin-spotting boat trips on the Tay. These visitor attractions perfectly complement our existing, well-known attractions such as The McManus Dundee’s Art Gallery & Museum, Dundee Contemporary Arts, Dundee Rep, Dundee Science Centre, RRS Discover, HMS Unicorn and Verdant Works.”

To further enhance Dundee’s reputation as a city staycation destination, a number of new hotels, bars and restaurants have opened, Dundee train station has had a £38 million upgrade and transport links to and from the city have been improved. “We are also installing a fleet of electric bikes, so once they get here, visitors can easily explore Dundee and the surrounding area,” continued Councillor Flynn.

“Dundee is a dynamic Scottish city which looks to the future, offering a refreshing alternative to the traditional tartan, shortbread and bagpipes image. We believe, as do many of our million-plus visitors that Dundee is the best place in the UK for a city staycation - and its great news for the city that the judges of the i Staycation Awards, agree.”

Hanna Tavner, i news said :  “Congratulations to all the winners at the inaugural Staycation Awards. The destinations, attractions and accommodation on offer in the UK are truly exceptional and deserve to be celebrated.”

Caroline warburton, VisitScotland Regional Leadership Director said : “I would like to offer my congratulations to Dundee for winning City Staycation of the Year, although it comes as no surprise!

“The city’s remarkable rise within Scotland’s travel scene continues as its thriving hub for design, innovation and culture is revealed. Visitors know they can thoroughly enjoy a staycation here, with countless great places to eat and drink, shops galore, easy transport access and a plethora of diverse things to see and do.

“The growing number of visitors all helps the tourism sector’s contribution to the local economy by creating jobs and sustaining communities. The arrival of the iconic V&A has propelled Dundee into the global spotlight and, together with the McManus Gallery, RRS Discovery and Verdant Works, help shine a light on all this incredible city has to offer. This accolade has cemented Dundee’s reputation as a must-see city and we look forward to this continuing in 2020 and beyond.”

5.30pm – 9pm, Friday, 15^th November, 2019 City Square, Albert Square & city centre streets

As darkness falls on the evening of Friday, November 15, buses across Dundee will be ferrying passengers to a spectacular event in the city centre – Dundee’s Christmas Light Night.

Dundee’s Christmas Light Night will bring sparkle, colour and the flicker of flaming torches to the city centre streets, marking the lighting of the city’s Christmas decorations and the start of over two months of seasonal festivities in and around Dundee.

Cllr Alan Ross, Convener for Dundee, One City, Many Discoveries, said:

“This is shaping up to be a fantastic and unique event for Dundee.  The combination of street entertainment and late night shopping culminating in the Christmas Ceilidh in City Square is expected to attract thousands of visitors to the city centre.”

Dundee’s Christmas Light Night will begin with fun and music in City Square from 5.30pm, along with impromptu Street Theatre performances, exciting carnival rides, a Wishing Wall and the chance to sing and dance through Dundee’s streets on a Silent Disco Tour.

Then, at 6.30pm, when the festive atmosphere’s in full swing, a breathtaking Torchlight Procession will wind its way from the High School of Dundee to the City Square, passing through Albert Square, Commercial Street and the High Street.

The lanterns which will be ablaze for Dundee’s Christmas Light Night’s Torchlight Procession were made by the people of Dundee at special workshops earlier in the year.

Organisers are inviting people to join in with the atmospheric procession on the night. Torchbearers simply need to register at the High School of Dundee meeting point at 5.30 pm on November 15 and be ready to join the procession when it begins at 6.30pm.

Once the Torchlight Procession reaches City Square, the traditional countdown will begin for the Christmas Light Switch On, when the city’s show-stopping decorations and, of course, the giant Christmas tree, will burst into colour.

For younger visitors, a more relaxed countdown will take place in Albert Square - The Mini Christmas Lights Switch On. This family-orientated event will include a kids’ disco, face painting – and an illuminated Pingoo, the loveable Christmas penguin.

In addition, there will be a very special bus stop on Albert Square, where Mrs Claus will be welcoming children on board the Santa Bus, which is making a magical journey from Lapland specially for Dundee’s Christmas Light Night. The McManus: Dundee’s Art Gallery and will also be joining in the fun, keeping their doors open until 7.30pm.

Once the lights are shining brightly all over the city centre, Dundee’s Christmas celebrations will continue in City Square with a massive Christmas Ceilidh with live music from top ceilidh band, Skyrie.

Dundee’s Christmas Light Night also features a free nativity play in the atmospheric setting of the Steeple Church. Dundee Nativity – The Christmas Angel allows the Archangel Gabriel to tell his version of the first Christmas and will include chances for younger members of the audience to join in.

Christine McGlasson, Managing Director, Xplore Dundee said:

“Dundee’s Christmas Light Night is always a wonderful evening for all the family and as always, we're delighted to transport people to and from this fabulous event by bus. And we hope everyone will experience the excitement of Christmas when they meet Mrs Claus on our Santa Bus, which is back for the festive season and will be welcoming kids of all ages on board. What a wonderful way to begin Christmas in Dundee, with a packed programme of celebrations which will continue until January 2020.”

Plan your Dundee Christmas Light Night experience

Christmas in Dundee features a wide range of festive events, including markets, winter fayres, workshops, foodie experiences, plays, concerts, ballet, pantomimes, children’s shows, live music, carol singing, exhibitions, dancing and even Christmas movies!

For the full programme of events, including information about bus routes over the festive period, download a copy of the Christmas in Dundee Festive Guide from dundee.com

https://www.dundee.com/sites/default/files/Christmas%20in%20Dundee%20brochure_0.pdf

Dundee’s status as one of Scotland’s most exciting foodie destinations has been confirmed with the launch of Dundee Eats – a beautifully illustrated, fold-out guide celebrating the city’s delicacies, food districts, favourite tipples and even its eating habits!

The guide was produced in conjunction with a group of food and drink experts from the city’s thriving independent food and drink sector and is packed full of locals’ tips and advice about what to try and where to go, along with an insider’s guide to three of Dundee’s best-loved food districts.

 “Our city has a fabulous reputation for its food and drink and we hope Dundee Eats encourages visitors and locals alike to experience the food and drink scene we have here to the full.” said Cllr Alan Ross of Dundee One City, Many Discoveries, the campaign who developed the guide.

As well as showcasing the excellence of Dundee’s food and drink, Dundee Eats shines a spotlight on the gastronomic delights to be found throughout Tay Country, the stretch of coast and countryside radiating out from the centre of Dundee.

“Dundee’s a great place to eat and drink because of our proximity to field, farm and coastline, so we’ve included a map of the wider area showing how close Dundee is to these world-class food producing areas” said Chef Rory Lovie of Bridgeview Station restaurant.

“We’ve also included a Food Bucket List,” added Rory Lovie. “These are ten food experiences unique to Dundee which everyone should taste at least once. We’re hoping people will tell share their own suggestions too, using the hashtag #DundeeEats!” 

In addition, Dundee Eats shines a light on the city’s Good Food Heroes – people who are really making a difference to how Dundonians eat, drink and cook, including a pioneering café owner, multi award-winning chefs, a café owner who uses vegetables grown in her grandad’s allotment and Dundee’s Godfather of Pizzas, Luigi Esposito.

“Scotland’s food and drink has changed beyond all recognition in the last 30 years to become one of the country’s most successful sectors. This corner of Scotland is a prime example of how to make the most of Scotland’s top quality, locally-produced vegetables, fruit, meat, game, fish, seafood and more” said Fiona Richmond, Head of Regional Food, Food & Drink Scotland. “Dundee is fast becoming one of the top places to eat in the UK, and Dundee Eats will help spread the word further about the fabulous food and drink on offer in Dundee and across Tay Country, contributing to the national food tourism ambition at the same time”

Dundee Eats is beautifully illustrated by local artist Laura Darling, whose eye-catching maps and illustrations bring Dundee’s unique food story to life.

“My illustrations were inspired by the playfulness of Dundee's food and drink scene - people are doing delightfully innovative and creative things yet at the same time not taking themselves too seriously.

“The guide is packed with fascinating facts and I loved working on it, although I did get very hungry drawing fish suppers and fudge doughnuts.” said Laura Darling.

Printed versions of Dundee Eats are now available to pick up from many independent food shops, eating places and bars throughout the city.

To download Dundee Eats, visit  https://www.dundee.com/DundeeEats

Special thanks to all who contributed their thoughts and suggestions particularly those representing Dundee’s indy food and drink sector, Mhairi Wild, Tayble; Danny Cullen, Law Brewery; Claire Simpson, Simpsons; Rory Lovie, Bridgeview Station; Ian Alexander, Birchwood Emporium.

Ends

Media enquiries please contact Dundee One City, Many Discoveries Jennie Patterson jennie@patterpr.com Tel: 07773 849586

The 2019 Festival of the Future will get off to a flying start when Scotland’s leading aerial dance company take to the sky outside the University of Dundee on Wednesday 16 October.

All or Nothing Aerial Dance Theatre will perform their trademark spectacular moves while suspended high above the ground as part of the official opening of this year’s Festival. The dancers will move up and down the University’s Tower Building to a specially created soundtrack, while an original animation created by Dundee alumni Ryan McKnight is projected on to the side of the building.

Guests will then be led to Bonar Hall for a musical performance by children from Claypotts Castle and St Pius primary schools, who are part of the Big Noise Orchestra, a Sistema Scotland initiative.

In addition to opening the Festival, the show will also mark the 60th anniversary of the Tower Building’s foundation stone being laid.

“The Tower is one of the tallest and most recognisable buildings in Dundee as well as being the beating heart of the University,” said Festival programme director Emma Beatt. “The exciting performance by All or Nothing and Ryan’s film lighting up the building is the perfect way to launch the Festival while celebrating a landmark anniversary for this Dundee landmark.

“We are delighted to have put on such a packed programme to suit all tastes with events exploring how science and culture can come together to solve some of the biggest issues we face while educating and entertaining visitors at the same time.”

Festival of the Future, the University’s flagship celebration of art, culture and science will take place from October 16-20. The theme of this year’s Festival is social change, and more than 60 events featuring music, design, dance, theatre, food and comedy will explore this while engaging with audiences of all ages.

High-profile speakers include author Kerry Hudson, who will share the personal stories from her memoir Lowborn: Growing Up, Getting Away and Returning to Britain’s Poorest Towns, an attempt to understand what it means to be poor in Britain today. Meanwhile broadcaster Paul Mason will launch a radical defence of universal rights and human-centric institutions while resisting the insidious influence of algorithms over our lives.

Paul will also take part in a panel considering the question ‘Do editors pander to audiences more than they should?’ as part of an exploration of journalism in an era of clickbait, fake news and social media.

Each day of the programme will feature events aimed at children, young people and adults, debates with academics and external speakers and high-profile events featuring prestigious figures from the worlds of science and culture. Dance, theatre, music and comedy performances will also take place.

More information about Festival of the Future can be found at www.dundee.ac.uk/futurefest.