Tag: BBC Alba

BBC ALBA takes a deep dive into the life of Commonwealth Games’ first Hebridean swimmer

BBC ALBA follows the record-breaking athletic career of professional swimmer, Kara Hanlon, in a brand-new documentary, airing on the 24 July, ahead of the Olympic swimming schedule.

Produced by Sunset+Vine, Kara Hanlon: Dare to Dream takes viewers on a journey through the life of the Hebridean swimmer, from her childhood growing up in Stornoway to training for the qualifiers for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

The now four-time British champion was inspired to take up the sport from a young age after learning to swim in her local community pool in Stornoway.

Speaking in the documentary, Kara said: “I did a lot of other sports when I was younger like running, but swimming for me was the one that always stuck.

“I was taught to swim by some of the local lifeguards at the old Stornoway pool, and what I remember most was racing for badges that I could put on my swimsuit to show that I’d made it to 50m or to 100m.”

At 14, Kara’s competitive swimming career took a major step forward after a chance meeting with DR Morrison, a prominent Lewis-based swim coach.

Kara said: “I didn’t want to go cross-country one morning and my mum said, okay, if you don’t go to cross country, go swimming instead. So off I went swimming and I bumped into DR and he basically asked me to be part of his group that he was developing for the Island Games.”

Kara goes on to detail the sacrifices her family often had to make for her swimming development in terms of both financial cost and time: “There were a lot of times where my parents would have to take time off work to take me on the ferry over to the mainland, and I think they were just willing to support me through that and that just meant going to more and more competitions going up and up the levels.”

Kara, now 27, has since achieved top swimming accolades in her professional athletic career. Last year she became the fastest female breaststroker in Scottish history for both 50m at the 2023 Glasgow International Swim Meet, and 100m during the North District Open Championships in Aberdeen.

In 2022, Kara achieved her childhood dream by becoming the first ever swimmer from the Western Isles to represent Scotland at a Commonwealth Games when she competed at Birmingham 2022. Reaching the finals of the 50m and 100m Breaststroke events, Kara also swam the final of the 4x100m Women’s Medley Relay, helping her team to a 5th placed finish.

Talking about swimming, Kara says: “I think it kind of chose me. I feel like it was kind of my destined path. Breaking Scottish records is something that I’ll always have, and I’ll always cherish. And I have been the fastest woman in Scotland ever.”

Fiona MacKenzie, commissioning editor at BBC ALBA, said: “From a 12.5m pool to competing in the qualifying rounds of the Olympic Games, Kara has gone from a small pond to a big pool.

“She is one of Scotland’s most decorated athletes, yet maintains a humble demeanour as she candidly opens up about her life growing up on Lewis in this new documentary.

“We can’t wait for BBC ALBA viewers to see what it takes to become a competitive swimmer and hopefully inspire the next generation of talent.”

Kara Hanlon: Dare to Dream will premiere on BBC ALBA on Wednesday 24 July at 9pm and on demand on BBC iPlayer (in Gaelic with English subtitles): 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001v5wc.

BBC ALBA provides respite from hustle and bustle with new slow-living series

BBC ALBA is set to go off-grid in a brand-new series exploring the growing lifestyle trend of ‘hutting’. Bothag Phàdruig | Peter’s Hut reunites viewers with Peter MacQueen, his partner Coinneach ‘The Hebridean Baker’ MacLeod, and their loveable sidekick, Seòras the dog, as they spend time at the family’s secluded hideaway in Argyll and Bute.

Set on edge of Clachan Sound, overlooking the famous Slate Islands, the series will take viewers on a ‘through the keyhole’ experience of off-grid living, with no phones, Wi-Fi or mains electricity to connect Peter and his guests to the outside world.

The eight-parter, produced by Caledonia TV, follows Peter for a full year as he and his family and friends visit the hut to escape their busy day-to-day lives.

In the first episode, Peter is joined by his other half, Coinneach – the Hebridean Baker – for a family weekend at the hut.

After a quick tour around the garden, Peter helps Coinneach make Bakewell scones just in time for his dad and uncle Stuart arriving.

Viewers can also expect to see special moments of Seòras, the loyal and beloved family dog before he sadly passed away last year.

Peter MacQueen comments: “The hut has always been an incredibly special place to us. My father built our hut six years ago and we have never looked back – it’s a privilege to give BBC ALBA viewers this exclusive chance to see our rural hideaway. Hutting helps families to go back to basics, appreciate the simple things in life and strengthen social bonds.

“Viewers can expect true off-grid living with no electricity, or Wi-Fi to access social media. We have kept up this family tradition to switch off from our bustling daily lives and reconnect with nature in its simplest form.

“Throughout the series, we have different guests join us for a bit of respite and to enjoy a slow-paced way of living. The series also captures the last few months we had with Seòras before we sadly lost him last year.

“Although it has been emotional seeing him again on screen, we are grateful we had the chance to create lasting memories with him at the hut.”

‘Hutting’ is a growing lifestyle trend in Scotland, offering access to the outdoors for those living in busy cities and rural settings alike. Often remaining in the same family for generations, the concept was established in Scotland following the First World War whereby people would pay a small amount in ground rent to landowners to build a rustic bolthole for their families.

‘Hutting’ is a prominent part of Scandinavian cultures as a place to visit with family and friends on the weekends and holidays.

Bill Macleod, Commissioning Editor, BBC ALBA, said: “This series is the definition of heart-warming television. I defy anyone who watches it not to want to spend time with Peter and his family as they cook, build, forage, swim and simply enjoy each other’s company in what must be one of the most beautiful spots on the planet. Kick back and be transported for the ultimate get-away!”

With weekly episodes airing every Tuesday throughout June and July (and available on demand on BBC iPlayer), special guests on the programme will include broadcaster and journalist Lesley Riddoch who enjoys a leisurely break to the hut while embracing the natural surroundings.

The first episode of Bothag Phàdruig | Peter’s Hut will premiere on BBC ALBA TONIGHT (Tuesday 25 June) at 8.30pm and on demand on BBC iPlayer (in Gaelic with English subtitles): https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001v5wc.

BBC ALBA launches search for up-and-coming Highlands and Islands artist to open Belladrum main stage

BBC ALBA has teamed up with The Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival during the 13th year of coverage to launch a search to find the best of Scotland’s up-and-coming musical talent.

Celebrating 20 years of Belladrum – and its longstanding support of Scottish artists – the search brings the spirit of the much-loved family festival to life to find the best talent ‘homegrown in the Highlands – and Islands’, with the winner given the opportunity to open the main stage.

Open to solo artists and bands from the Highlands and Islands (where at least 50% of its members have a Highland home address) across all genres, the talent search will showcase the top newcomer with a prime slot in the Hot House Arena on Thursday 25 July, kicking off the weekend of live music and arts.

The winner will also have the opportunity to play an acoustic session in the BBC ALBA studio which will be available to watch on BBC iPlayer as part of the broadcaster’s festival coverage.

Musicians can apply by submitting a bio and link to their music to tartanheart@bbc.co.uk, with entries judged by a panel of experts, including representatives from Belladrum, the BBC and Scottish folk singer and multi-instrumentalist Julie Fowlis, before the shortlist goes to a public vote on the Belladrum website.

Julie Fowlis comments: “The Belladrum Tartan Heart festival has become one of Scotland’s most popular and iconic music festivals, set in the most beautiful Highland surroundings. It’s the kind of festival that every musician wants to play!

“I’m honoured to be part of the judging team for this year’s talent search, which affords an amazing opportunity to an up and coming artist from the Highlands and Islands to perform at the festival. If you’d like to play Bella this year, this is your chance.”

Calum McConnell, commissioning editor at BBC ALBA, said: “We’re proud supporters of the arts in Scotland, and committed to bringing coverage of the likes of Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival to viewers across the nation through funding from MG ALBA.

”We’re always keen to showcase our homegrown talent, so what better way to extend our annual support of the Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival in its 20th anniversary year than with a search for the next best ‘homegrown’ talent from the Highlands and Islands.

“Our Belladrum festival coverage is always a highlight in the BBC ALBA summer schedule and with the winner earning a spot on the main stage, we hope this can give an emerging artist the boost to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Fatherson, Frightened Rabbit and Twin Atlantic, who all played at Belladrum early on in their careers.”

Belladrum brings together top musical acts, comedy, cabaret, spoken word, dance, drag and even wrestling as part of the annual family-friendly festival. A wealth of new names have been added to the festival’s 20th anniversary line up in recent weeks, with returning festival favourites and artists making their first visit to the Highland event, including mighty rock music legends, Toyah & Robert, and the UK’s biggest country music export, The Shires.

A band with one of the most long-standing relationships with Belladrum, Twin Atlantic, will also make a welcome return, headlining The Garden Stage this summer – having first made their break on the festival’s emerging artist stage in 2008.

These acts join the previously announced headliners Deacon Blue, James Arthur and Sugababes, alongside Ocean Colour Scene, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Calum Beattie, Teenage Fanclub, Jack Bugg and many more, with this year’s event themed around ‘love’.

Dougie Brown, Belladrum festival producer, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with BBC ALBA in search of the most exciting up and coming artists from across the Highlands & Islands.

“Since the very first festival in 2004 Bella has been proud to showcase the best in emerging music alongside household names and festival favourites.

“Numerous artists careers have grown in parallel with the festival and there is nothing better than watching an artist’s career blossom and invite them to return to the festival to perform on bigger stages and to bigger audiences over the years.”

The talent search is now open, with entries accepted via email to tartanheart@bbc.co.uk until 9am on Friday 12 July.

Find out more about Belladrum and get your tickets at tartanheartfestival.com. For those unable to attend, BBC ALBA will be bringing the best of the festival to viewers at home with its annual live coverage broadcast across the weekend, available on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer.

Watch live or on demand from 25 July: Belladrum on BBC ALBA.

New series of BBC ALBA’s flagship current affairs programme premieres with special on Nagorno-Karabakh

In September 2023, Azerbaijan retook the enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh. Recognised internationally as part of Azerbaijan, until recently much of it was under Armenian control as the Republic of Artsakh.

Armenia had captured the territory during a war in the early 1990s. After Azerbaijan’s recapture of the enclave, most of its Armenian-majority population fled, and are now living in Armenia.

In this latest instalment of BBC ALBA’s European current affairs programme Eòrpa, Annabel Maclennan meets several of those displaced, as well as representatives of the Armenian and Azerbaijani Governments who are currently involved in talks to formally set their respective borders.

Scottish Government External Affairs Secretary, Angus Robertson MSP, also sheds lights on Scotland’s connection to this decades-old conflict. Mr Robertson facilitated talks in Edinburgh and Moray between the two sides in 2003, and sees a role for Scotland in helping resolve tensions today.

He said: “If it comes to the Scottish Government which can help in the hosting of events, academics and experts who could share their expertise, and NGOs who have expertise on the ground in different parts of the world and have been involved in peace and reconciliation processes elsewhere.

“If we recognise that we have all of these resources here, these are things that we can offer to places like the South Causasus. So when the time is right for them, if they want, it’s up to them. If they want to come here, they would be very welcome.”

Viktorya Balayan’s husband, Sevak, was killed when defending Nagorno-Karabakh. She was left to tell her daughter, Maria (six), that her father would not be coming home. She said: “I sat her and explained to her that Sevak had died and he is a star now, and he will always be with her, he sees her from the above and is very proud of her.

“One time we noticed that Maria couldn’t be found anywhere. We found her on the balcony, speaking to the stars: “Mom, look, Dad is the biggest star.”, I said, “Yes, he is the biggest star.”

Elin Suleymanov is Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to the United Kingdom. He says those who fled Nagorno-Karabakh are welcome to return: “Of course, anybody who can come, who wants to come back, can come back.

“But they need to prove that if they want to be citizens of Azerbaijan.”

Reporter Annabel Maclennan reflects on her time covering this issue, on those she met, and why what happens in Nagorno Karabakh and the Southern Caucasus matters.

She comments: “The tragic human stories and powerful testimonies we heard in Armenia left me in no doubt that this is a situation to which we should be paying attention.

“That, coupled with the current situation in neighbouring Georgia, as well as the wider geo-political situation of the Southern Caucasus, bordering Russia, Turkey and Iran, highlights the significance of this conflict and the importance of peace in the region.”

Eòrpa is BBC ALBA’s flagship current affairs programme, covering a range of domestic and European stories, ranging from the impact of fires and flooding in Greece, to gender-based violence in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.

The new series of Eòrpa will premiere on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer weekly, on Wednesday evenings at 9pm (in Gaelic with English subtitles).

Watch live or on demand: www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006mvwb

Sex in Gaelic – All is revealed in new BBC ALBA documentary

BBC ALBA is delving into the ‘covert’ sexual history of the Gaelic language and it’s speakers in a new Trusadh documentary.

Feise ann an Gàidhlig | Sex in Gaelic explores the way sex has been perceived in Gaelic literature, poetry, music and customs across the centuries – studying language which has never been discussed on Gaelic TV.

Airing on Monday 20 May at 10pm, the fascinating, eye-opening, even shocking historic relationship between sex and the Gael will be uncovered with the help of artistic and academic experts.

Directed and presented by Scottish writer, Catriona Lexy Campbell, the 60-minute documentary will take audiences on a trip across Scotland to discover the Gaels who helped shape – or dispel – wider societal perceptions of and attitudes to sex. 

At the University of St Andrews, Catriona meets Peter Mackay, co-author of The Little Blue Book – the first collection of ‘obscene and transgressive’ Gaelic poetry. Together they discuss the oldest erotic verse in the Gaelic language and learn about the colourful characters who wrote them.

In the Isle of Skye Catriona meets singer and folklorist, Anne Martin, to learn about how women dealt with sex and risk – through song.

In Inverness-shire, acclaimed author Sarah Fraser tells the story of Alexander Macdonald, one of the most renowned Gaelic poets who – thanks to some of his more expressive verses – is also one of the most censored.

Catriona said: “For the first time, we are uncovering language that hasn’t been discussed on Gaelic television before.

“Though there is sometimes the view that the Gaels are particularly reserved people when it comes to discussing emotions or sexuality, when we look closely at this historic literature, that’s not really the case.

“There is clear evidence of people being more expressive about sex than was previously thought. That’s why we’re putting a spotlight on understanding and preserving the explicit, and sometimes downright obscene, language used throughout our history.”

The documentary also looks at changes in attitudes towards individuals’ sexuality. Catriona reflects on how the past has impacted modern attitudes and even uncovered new connections. 

Feise ann an Gàidhlig | Sex in Gaelic premieres on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer on Monday 20 May at 10pm (in Gaelic with English subtitles).

Watch live or on demand: www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001zh25.

BBC ALBA shares the epic journey of ‘A Bear named Wojtek’ in exclusive VE Day premiere

To mark the anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE DAY), BBC ALBA is giving viewers an exclusive opportunity to unravel the story of A Bear named Wojtek with a special Gaelic broadcast of the award-winning animation.

Airing on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer on Wednesday 8 May, this is the first opportunity for UK audiences outside of the film festival circuit to explore the true story of Wojtek the Bear.

The half hour animated film, dubbed in Gaelic with English subtitles, tells the epic journey of an orphaned Syrian brown bear who was adopted by Polish soldiers during World War II, becoming a beacon of hope and an emblem of their fate.

The story begins with a platoon of Polish soldiers trading rations for a small orphaned Syrian bear cub that Piotr Prendys, a member of the 22nd Artillery Corps of the 2nd Polish Army, names Wojtek – ‘happy warrior’. To Piotr, the bear comes to represent his lost homeland, needing protection and care to become strong and independent again. To Wojtek, Piotr and the soldiers become his only family.

Tragically, the realpolitik of the war’s outcome ultimately force Piotr and Wojtek to become refugees in Scotland, with Wojtek confined in Edinburgh Zoo.

Directed by Scottish filmmaker Iain Gardner, and produced by Iain Harvey and Wlodzimierz Matuszewski, Mathan Leis an Ainm Wojtek / A Bear named Wojtek is a love story for one’s homeland; and an important subject in times of refugees, nationalism and xenophobia.

Producer Iain Harvey said: “This is an emotional story, not just because it is true – though the film makes no pretence of being a documentary – but through the extraordinary parallels of recent events: the Covid pandemic restricting movement, and then the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

“The agony of losing loved ones and the plight of refugees is symbolised by the history of Wojtek the Bear.

“Coupled with the beautiful artwork and the haunting music by Normand Roger, it is a film that will never lose its appeal.”

Piotr’s experience echoes that of many Polish people, who would become the biggest losers of the War as their land is bargained off to the Soviet Union. Despite feeling abandoned and betrayed, the Polish fortitude continues today via Wojtek: still a celebrated legend and symbol of hope.

Co-produced by Filmograf in Poland and The Illuminated Film Company in the UK, Mathan Leis an Ainm Wojtek / A Bear named Wojtek was financed by the Polish Film Institute, Screen Scotland, and the UK Government-supported BFI Young Audiences Content Fund.

Mathan Leis an Ainm Wojtek / A Bear named Wojtek will premiere on BBC ALBA and BBC

iPlayer on VE Day, Wednesday 8 May, at 7pm (in Gaelic with English subtitles). Watch live or on demand: www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001z24r.

BBC ALBA sparks creativity with new DIY competition series

Meet the contestants of Dùbhlain DIY (Instructions Not Included)

Get ready for an electrifying DIY showdown this spring as amateur Scottish duos go head-to-head in a brand new TV challenge series, Dùbhlain DIY (Instructions Not Included).

Airing each Monday at 8.30pm from 6 May, the five-part BBC ALBA original series will follow six pairs – made up of married couples, family members and friends – as they compete for a £2,000 cash prize and the ‘Dùbhlain DIY champions’ title.

Inspiring the nation to ‘do it yourself’ in the name of sustainability, the innovative format will see rookie pairs battle it out in a series of home renovation tasks – with a twist. Without any instructions, demonstrations or even guidelines to follow, the couples will need to bring their differing strengths and creative talents to the competition to see who measures up.

Some may shine while others fall flat as they face a variety of themed challenges, but everything is to play for with one couple being eliminated each week, putting their skills – and relationships – to the test.

Hailing from across Scotland, the Dùbhlain DIY (Instructions Not Included) contestants include:

  • Isle of Lewis and BBC Radio Nan Gàidheal pals, actor Marisa MacDonald and An Lot crofter Donald “Sweeny” MacSween;
  • Hebridean siblings, solicitor Isabel Macleod (from Carloway, now based in Stornoway) and Royal National Mòd ‘Traditional’ gold medallist, Tormod Macleod (from Carloway);
  • Lewis-based spouses, wife and mum-of-four Marie Duke (originally from Skye) and her film editor husband Paul (originally from Newtonmore);
  • Glasgow-based friends, singer Josie Duncan (from Laxdale) and artist and content creator Choirstaidh Iona McArthur (from Greenock);
  • Retired twin sisters from the Isle of Lewis, Donna Barden and Mina Nicolson; and
  • South Uist cousins studying in Glasgow, Alasdair Campbell and Calum MacMillan (raised in Bornais)

From basic flat pack furniture to their own creations made out of recycled materials, their imagination will be allowed to run riot, before being tempered by materials, time constraints and often, their own abilities.

Dùbhlain DIY competitor, Tormod Macleod said: “I do occasionally try my hand at DIY. I have built flatpacks like everyone else and have built a couple of basic raised beds for my garden.

“I do try to fix things when needed as well but I’m certainly not a professional.”

Hoping to learn a few things along the way, his solicitor sister Isabel Macleod added: “I learnt a lot from my dad – he was a fisherman, joiner and builder and could turn his hand to anything.

“I would often spend time helping him make and repair things but wish I’d learnt more! I always attempt to fix things around the house as I don’t like how wasteful society is. Not sure if I’m very good at some tasks but it’s always worth a try!”

Hosted by TV and radio presenter Derek “Pluto” Murray, alongside main judge musician Iain “Spanish” MacKay – a skilled joiner by trade – the Gaelic duo ensure there will be plenty of laughs along the way.

Enlisting the help of an expert guest judge each week, viewers can join in with the excitement and exasperation as the couples vie for the title, with a display of improvisation at its best.

Presenter Derek “Pluto” Murray said: “Get ready for the ultimate test of creativity, ingenuity, and skill with our new DIY competition, pitching challenges with the twist of “instructions not included” – as if flat pack furniture building wasn’t stressful enough!

“Although the competitors lack in instructions, they excel in enthusiasm and craic!”

Judge Iain “Spanish” MacKay added: “It’s a celebration of the country’s DIY culture – whether an amateur enthusiast or someone who has had to pick up a hammer out of necessity, Dùbhlain DIY will give the viewers something they can relate to, even if it’s just seeing the sheer frustration of attempting even the most basic of DIY tasks.

“While offering feel-good escapism, we hope it’ll inspire those at home to get out there and start a new project of their own.”

But which couple can prove to the nation that they have what it takes to be the first ever ‘Dùbhlain DIY champions’ and still remain friends?

A joint project between Demus and Seaglass Productions, Dùbhlain DIY (Instructions Not Included) premieres on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayeron Monday 6 May at 8.30pm (in Gaelic with English subtitles), with weekly episodes available every Monday evening. Watch live or on demand.

E: MGALBA@3×1.com

The Search Is Over: Winners of Gaelic Film Competition FilmG revealed

The winners of this year’s prestigious Gaelic short film competition FilmG 2022 were announced last night (Friday, February 25) in a special awards ceremony on BBC ALBA.
 
Many of the winners across the 17 prize categories were brought into the FilmG studio by video link to accept their award and chat with programme hosts and competition stalwarts Fiona MacKenzie and Niall Iain MacDonald.

The specially created awards programme was shown on BBC ALBA last night and is available to watch on the BBC iPlayer for 30 days afterwards.

Films followed this year’s competition theme Lorg, which means search, find or trace, and with over 90 filmmakers attempting to find the winning formula, the judges had a tough job whittling down the entries over multiple days.

Parker Dawes (14), a pupil at Ardnamurchan High School in Strontian, West Lochaber, scooped three awards – Best Young Filmmaker, Best Film Fluent Speakers and Best Production, for his slapstick spy thriller Spies-R-Us.

Parker said: “We chose the spy topic because it was opposite to the film we made last year which didn’t win any prizes.

“We were interested to see if an action film could get different results – and it worked! I created a storyboard and we had crash mats so everything was well planned.

“I’ve always loved filmmaking and I’ve always looked up to FilmG. I’m really happy to get these awards because my friends and I were so sad when we didn’t win last year. It was great to be on that podium as a winner.”

An animation by Alina Brust from Edinburgh won ‘Best Film’ in the Open Category, the first time an animation has won this prize in FilmG.

‘An Taigh Solais’ follows a shepherd who is trying to find a lost sheep and has to shelter with her flock in an abandoned lighthouse to escape a storm. Due to the pandemic Alina had no access to university facilities so she made the entire film in her bedroom.

Alina (23) said: “I’m inspired by the Scottish landscape and coastline, especially the lighthouse and the cliffs around St. Abbs, one of my favourite places. And a lighthouse is a perfect setting for a weird and spooky story.

“Making this film was a great opportunity to combine my two passions of art and languages.

“I’m so grateful that all my hard work has paid off – as a Gaelic learner it feels like such a special achievement for me.”

Scooping the prize for Best Production (Under 12), Coignear air Chall (5 Lost Souls) by Sandbank Primary School in Dunoon follows five school friends as they take a spooky journey to one of the town’s historic landmarks.

A film about hillwalking and scrambling as a way to get a new perspective on the world from beyond the cold, dark glens and high above the clouds, ‘Thar Nan Sgòth – Beinn Eighe’ (Above the Clouds – Beinn Eighe) by Anndra Cuimeanach from Gairloch secured the prize for Best Documentary (12-17).

In the Open category a short documentary called ‘A’ Mhuir’ (The Sea) about wild swimming by the students at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig in the Isle of Skye who take part in the sport, has picked up two separate awards, Film Duthchais and Best Director (Anna Garvin).

Emily Murray (21), from Lewis, accepted the FilmG award on behalf of the class. She said: “Taking part in FilmG was a good opportunity to practice the skills we had learned in class, such as camera, sound and editing.”

Anna Garvin (23) from Oban, who is studying Gaelic in Media at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig in Skye, said: “I feel very honoured to have won this.  It was my first time directing and I learnt so much about the skills needed to direct from working on this film. 

“Entering FilmG was a great opportunity to use all the technical and production skills we had learnt so far to create a film that would be shown to a public audience.“

‘Am Buaile Dubh’ which takes a look around Am Buaile Dubh on the outskirts of Inverness, has secured the Best Performance award for the film’s producer and narrator, Eòghan Stiùbhart.

Eòghan (40), from Inverness, is a Gaelic teacher with over 5k followers on Instagram for his Scottish Gaelic learning videos. He’s also an advocate for men’s mental health.

He said: “I went to Am Buaile Dubh a lot through lockdown, it’s a great place to be outdoors and get exercise. It allows me to be in a little world of my own and helps my mental health.

“For this film I wrote a monologue about what the place means to me and paired this with my own and old images and maps to illuminate the place.

“Winning this award was a surprise and honour, it was really cool to win the big metal G.”

And ‘Eilean Lois’ (Lois’s Island) by Somhairle MacIain (Sorley Johnston) from Kirkintilloch, East Dunbartonshire, which follows him and his girlfriend, Lois, as they cycled the Hebridean Way in the summer and he teaches her to speak Gaelic on the trip won them the award for Best Student Film.

Former Bishopbriggs Academy pupil, Sorley (19), who is studying Gaelic Media at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, Skye, said: “I entered FilmG because I wanted to showcase a film that I had made myself while I was still on my course and had access to all the editing equipment and software.

“I’m planning on putting the prize money towards equipment of my own so I can continue to make films after my course finishes.”

Debbie Mackay, Project Manager at CGS who deliver the project said: “It was another great year for entries, and we were especially impressed by the high level of storytelling and filmmaking skills amongst our youth categories.

“As the competition continues to grow, we see filmmakers push themselves to a higher standard year after year. It’s a privilege to be a part of the project.”     

Iseabail Mactaggart, Director of Multi-platform Content at MG ALBA said: “FilmG has always been so important to Gaelic media as a whole and also to the individual filmmakers and groups who take part year after year.

“Seeing the talent coming through the ranks and refining their craft in order to pick up one of the coveted prizes is gratifying for all involved in Gaelic media, and testament to our ambition to continue to nurture an unrivalled Gaelic-speaking talent base both in front of, and behind the camera for years to come.”

All films from this year’s competition are available to watch on the FilmG website: www.filmg.co.uk

Further updates can be found on FilmG’s Social Media Channels:

www.facebook.com/filmgalba/ 
www.instagram.com/filmg_alba/ 
twitter.com/FilmGAlba

Edinburgh film-makers shortlisted in FilmG Gaelic Short Film Competition

Filmmakers taking part in this year’s prestigious Gaelic short film competition FilmG 2022 have been inspired by nature, environmental issues and the great outdoors – with many of the shortlisted films exploring these topics.

Many films followed this year’s competition theme Lorg, which means search, find or trace, it could even be interpreted as footsteps, with some shortlisted films exploring the outdoors, getting closer to nature and appreciating and protecting the environment.

Nominees have now been confirmed across 17 categories and all the shortlisted films are available to watch on the FilmG website.  

The competition received 91 entries this year, which covered various different stories and current events, and the judges had a tough job whittling down the entries over multiple days.

On the environmental theme, eponymous Uilleam Uaine (Green William) is in Staffin to help the pupils to make the right choices for the environment, in a film of the same name which was written and produced by pupils at Staffin Primary School on the Isle of Skye. It has been shortlisted as the Best Production (Under 12).

And a film by pupils at Sgoil Bhagh a’ Chaisteil on the Isle of Barra called ‘Cosgais A Churaim’, (The Cost of Caring) which looks into the effects of disposable face masks on our environment, has been nominated for Best Documentary. 

Dihaoinean airson Teachd (Fridays of the Future) tells the story of a scientist who wants to save the world with a potion she has invented to create an Eco Superhero. However, the wrong people keep drinking it! 

Made by pupils at Craighill Primary School in Tain, this film has also been shortlisted as the Best Production (Under 12).


Gaelic Medium pupils at Oban High School have been nominated for ‘GOP 26’, which is about an environmental conference GOP26 taking place in Glasgow with leaders from all over the world making speeches, but one of the speakers mysteriously goes missing. The film was shortlisted for the quality of the spoken Gaelic throughout.

Several films explore the great outdoors including a film about hillwalking and scrambling as a way to get a new perspective on the world from beyond the cold, dark glens and high above the clouds. 

Called ‘Thar Nan Sgòth – Beinn Eighe’ (Above the Clouds – Beinn Eighe) this film, made by Anndra Cuimeanach from Gairloch, has been nominated for Best Documentary and Best Young Filmmaker in the Youth Category (12-17).

Also in the Youth Category a film by Emma Rose Passmore from Harris called ‘Falaichte Ann an Roghdal’ (Hidden in Rodal) which looks at the secret history of Roghdal in Harris, has been nominated for Best Documentary and Best Young Filmmaker.

In the Open category a short documentary called ‘A’ Mhuir’ (The Sea) about wild swimming and the students at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig in the Isle of Skye who take part in the sport, has been nominated for Best Film, Film Duthchais, Best Performance (Somhairle MacIain), Best Student Film and Best Director (Anna Garvin).

‘Am Buaile Dubh’ by Eòghan Stiùbhart from Inverness, which takes a look around Am Buaile Dubh on the outskirts of Inverness, has been nominated for Best Film, Film Duthchais (which translates as best heritage or community film), Best Performance (Eòghan Stiùbhart), Best Director and Best Script.

While a spoof of outdoor programmes called ‘Rachamaid’ by Ross Young from Inverurie has been shortlisted for Best Performance (Ross Young) and Best Student Film.

And ‘Eilean Lois’ (Lois’s Island) by Somhairle MacIain from Glasgow, which follows him and his girlfriend, Lois, as they cycled the Hebridean Way in the summer and he teaches her to speak Gaelic on the trip, has been shortlisted for Best Student Film.

This is just a few of an array of fantastic films by talented filmmakers, schools and community groups from across Scotland that have made it to the shortlists for the FilmG 2022 Short Film Competition. 

Karen Elder, a journalist for An Là is a Scottish Gaelic-language news programme broadcast on the Gaelic-language channel, BBC ALBA, was one of the judges this year.She said: “It was a privilege to once again be a part of the judging panel for FilmG. There was a wide variety of films entered, from strong documentaries to comedy. It was no small task.” 

You can watch shortlisted films on the FilmG website. FilmG is the Gaelic short film competition, funded by MG ALBA and delivered by Cànan Graphics Studio on the Isle of Skye.

The winners of this year’s prestigious Gaelic Short Film Competition FilmG will be revealed on BBC ALBA from 9pm on Friday, February 25 via a new, specially created, awards programme broadcast from Stornoway.

The show will be hosted by FilmG and BBC ALBA stalwarts Fiona MacKenzie and Niall Iain MacDonald.

For more information, www.filmg.co.uk 

Shortlists:

Youth (Under 12) Category

FilmmakerLocationFilmCategoryLink to FilmDescription 
Bun-sgoil Ghàidhlig Ghleann Dail (Glendale Primary School)GlasgowDeiseil neo aindeiseil?Best Film (Under 12)https://youtu.be/JXLuSzXW0lkThings go wrong when a group of pupils try and play a game of hide and seek instead of learning about it. Where did Penelope go?!
Bun-sgoil Achadh na Creige (Rockfield Primary School)ObanLorden Bino agus NedBest Film (Under 12)https://youtu.be/axhZ-LBu_ywLorden, Bino and Ned have told the dinner ladies at Rockfield Primary School that their food is not good enough and they will make school dinners better.
Sgoil Staffainn (Staffin Primary School)Isle of SkyeTearlach san EileanBest Film (Under 12)https://youtu.be/eWOxlGeXD5EPrince Charles visits Staffin
Bun-sgoil Dun Bheagan (Dunvegan Primary School)Isle of SkyeAir Chall ‘s Air LorgBest Film (Under 12)https://youtu.be/J_eMMxhCzrcWill one young girl’s conscience help her do the right thing?
Bun-sgoil Thaigh A’ Chladaich (Sandbank Primary School)DunoonCoignear Air ChallBest Production (Under 12)https://youtu.be/U2xnw4qEA5UFive Children go to Kilmun on Halloween. Did they get away safely? They met a strange family – the Adams Family!
Sgoil Staffainn (Staffin Primary School)Isle of SkyeUilleam UaineBest Production (Under 12)https://youtu.be/s4wPduOWU04Uilleam Uaine is in Staffin to help the pupils make the right choices for the environment
Bun-sgoil Cnoc na Creige (Craighill Primary School)TainDihaoinean airson TeachdBest Production (Under 12)https://youtu.be/MDHwFPaTmVMA Scientist wants to save the world with a potion she has invented – to create an Eco Superhero. However, the wrong people keep drinking it!
Bun-sgoil Ghlinn Urchadain (Glenurquhart Primary School)DrumnadrochitAn Iuchair DraoidheilBest Production (Under 12)https://youtu.be/iQm8t4qOMGMA student finds a magic key and brings it into class

Youth (12-17) Category

FilmmakerLocationFilmCategoryLink to filmDescription
Parker DawesArdnamurchanSpies-R-UsBest Film (Fluent), Best Production, Best Young Filmmaker, Best Performance (Parker Dawes)https://youtu.be/yRN6I9rNduoSeumas McGuffin, the best spy in the world and friend Iain stole a secret file from the most secure facility in Scotland. Here’s what happened.
Àrd-sgoil an Òbain (Oban High School)ObanGOP 26Best Film (Fluent)https://youtu.be/CtVGNy2PsSgGOP26 is taking place in Glasgow and world leaders are making speeches. But one of the speakers has gone missing!
Àrd-sgoil Ghearrloch (Gairloch High School)GairlochAn Sithiche Mu DheireadhBest Film (Fluent)https://youtu.be/zt9k4zzFTfgThe Gille Dubh, has lived in the Gairloch area for centuries.But after the laird had hunted him, he was not seen again … until he appeared in our own day
Finlay agus Calum MorrisonGlasgowAn Taigh-ÒstaBest Film (Fluent), Best Performance (Finlay Morrison)https://youtu.be/ziIP9d-EUg4Iain and Donald McRamsay explore the goings-on in the fictional village of “Ochanish”. There are some interesting characters staying there!
Àrd-sgoil Ile (Islay High School)IslayEasga Bhuidhe na FeidhBest Film (Learners)https://youtu.be/oARMiRNVzyQIs Easga Bhuidhe na Feidh as fearful as legend suggests? A group of Islay teenagers try to find out.
Acadamaidh Pheairt (Perth Academy)PerthAn Amaladh a ChèileBest Film (Learners)https://youtu.be/2QHIWzyBXOQA small group of pupils leaves a classroom and see a poster offering a reward for the capture of an escaped llama.
Àrd-sgoil Tobar Mhoire (Tobermory High School)MullSeumas SnasailBest Film (Learners)https://youtu.be/3gS9zxAlx7IA young girl goes to extreme lengths to meet her idol. Is meeting your heroes ever a good idea?
Acadamaidh Allt a’ Mhuilinn (Millburn Academy)InvernessFlòraidhBest Film (Learners)https://youtu.be/h12m98PjC54Can you ever be sure who you’re talking to when you meet someone online?
Àrd-sgoil Phort Rìgh (Portree High School)Isle of SkyeCuidhteasBest Production, Best Performance (Iseabail MacRae)https://youtu.be/rcEFfex-0v4Three respectable wives in the Victorian Era plan a way to find independence from their husbands
Àrd-sgoil Loch Abar (Lochaber High School)Fort WilliamGàidsear ChreutaireanBest Production, Best Performance (Calum Stewart)https://youtu.be/nZmPTyQF8IYWhen there’s something strange in your school, who will you phone? Gàidsear Chrutairean (Creature Catcher)!
Àrd-sgoil Aird nam Murchan (Ardnamurchan High School)ArdnamurchanBeatha Iain LomBest Productionhttps://youtu.be/Rfq93GwOv_sFrom birth to death- scenes from the life of one of Scotland’s best known poets.
Anndra CuimeanachGairlochThar Nan Sgòth – Beinn EigheBest Documentary, Best Young Filmmakerhttps://youtu.be/RScxxJ-3WGESometimes we have to leave the cold, dark glens and climb high above each cloud. There we get a new perspective on the world.
Emma Rose PassmoreHarrisFalaichte Ann an RoghdalBest Documentary, Best Young Filmmakerhttps://youtu.be/ejf_w648ZVYA look around the secret history of Roghdal in Harris
Keri NicIainInvernessLatha na DeuchainnBest Young Filmmakerhttps://youtu.be/bnzta6WQjLIIt’s exam day for the Gaelic pupils. This film picks up on the different types of student (and teachers) that you encounter during exams!
Sgoil Bhagh a’ ChaisteilIsle of BarraCosgais A ChuraimBest Documentaryhttps://youtu.be/_0MUTOpstAQA look into the effects of disposable face masks on our environment.
Àrd-sgoil MhicNeacail (Nicolson Institute)Isle of LewisCeannaircBest Documentaryhttps://youtu.be/hzLk-AyZRJQTwenty years after the 9/11 attacks, Nicolson Institute S3 students take a look back at history.
Sgoil Ghàidhlig GhlaschuGlagsowFo BhruidBest Performance (Shreya Saul)https://youtu.be/J99RYIxIQlYA group of friends have to follow a number of clues to find out what has happened to their missing friend.
Sgoil Ghàidhlig GhlaschuGlasgowMurt MatamataigBest Performance (Eylana McCormack)https://youtu.be/GB_UQI3E7PEWhen the maths teacher is murdered, it is up to the class to figure out who amongst them is the murderer.

Open Category

FilmmakerLocationFilmShortlisted for  
Alina BrustEdinburghAn Taigh SolaisBest Film, Best Student Film, Best Director (Alina Brust)https://youtu.be/EYN7y0ih9vYA shepherd and her sheep are trapped in a strange lighthouse.
Innes MacLeodIsle of LewisCudaigBest Film, Film Duthchais, Best Director (Innes MacLeod)https://youtu.be/BNe8wEbmbIsCudaig’s life as a Coastguard volunteer.
Cursa TBh Sabhal Mòr OstaigIsle of SkyeA’ MhuirBest Film, Film Duthchais, Best Performance (Somhairle MacIain), Best Student Film, Best Director (Anna Garvin)https://youtu.be/0VAitEe_uVEA short documentary about wild swimming and the students at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig who take part in the sport.
Eòghan StiùbhartInvernessAm Buaile DubhBest Film, Film Duthchais, Best Performance (Eòghan Stiùbhart), Best Director, Best Scripthttps://youtu.be/yeKqd4ak_0kA look around Am Buaile Dubh on the outskirts of Inverness
Ross YoungInverurieRachamaidBest Performance (Ross Young), Best Student Filmhttps://youtu.be/oxjOk9mSy6IA spoof of outdoor programmes.
Somhairle MacIainGlasgowEilean LoisBest Student Filmhttps://youtu.be/JLQZtS7A9QUIn the summer me and my girlfriend, Lois, cycled the Hebridean Way. Lois does not speak Gaelic but I try to teach her some on our trip
Comunn na GaidhligNationwideLorgan Caluim CilleFilm Duthchaishttps://youtu.be/aJkvxxkSOlAIt is the 1,500th anniversary of the birth of St Columba. The Comunn na Gàidhlig team works throughout Scotland and seven of our Iomairtean Cànain (language initiatives) looked for local links with Colmcille
Marcas Mac An TuairneirEdinburghCrò-naomhBest Performance (Marcas Mac An Tuairneir)https://youtu.be/bfDLBEPTG3IA film-poem by Marcas Mac an Tuairneir with the poem’Crò-naomh’ (‘Sacred Heart’)
Robbie MacLeodEdinburghLorganBest Performance (Robbie MacLeod), Best Scripthttps://youtu.be/iqY422knVegA film poem examining the things that go out of view, and the traces they leave behind them.
Clas Gàidhlig ChamelonFalkirkLàrach eucoir anns a’ GhearasdanBest Performance (Julia Gull), Best Scripthttps://youtu.be/R8xJpTJtuxoA crime was committed in Fort William and the neighbours are shocked. A police officer narrows down the suspects to four people and interviews them.
Cheryl Heggie School of Dance + Sìne na ScreenInvernessThòisich e le Sreothart!Best Scripthttps://youtu.be/IQ4yRWtaqbYIt started with a sneeze! The entries for the Highland dancers scatter everywhere and they end up in the wrong competitions at the Highland games

​

Two people from Edinburgh feature in tonight’s Eòrpa about Assisted Dying

Two people from Edinburgh feature in the next episode of European Current Affairs programme, Eòrpa, which is about the proposed Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill and will air on BBC ALBA tonight (Thursday, November 18) at 8.30pm.

Dr Donald MacDonald – from Edinburgh – practiced as a doctor, and as a minister, for many years, both in the UK and in India and he’s had MS for almost 40 years. He is against the assisted dying Scotland Bill because it goes against the age old medical ethic of not ending a life deliberately. He’s concerned that people would feel like a burden on their family, friends or caregivers and due to this they might opt for ending their life via assisted suicide or euthanasia.

And Leighanne Baird-Sangster from Edinburgh. In May 2020, her wife Gill was terminally ill with melanoma cancer and when she reached the end-of-life stage they had a very difficult 10 days before she died when she suffered a lot of pain. Leighanne supports the Assisted Dying Scotland Bill, so that no one else goes through what her wife did.

Assisted dying has always been a divisive, and deeply controversial topic. Those in favour may see it as a compassionate way to end suffering. Many people come to support it due to their own personal experience. But on the other hand, many of those against changing the law see it as gravely immoral, and as something which could be used to undermine the rights of the most vulnerable in society.

Any new change in the law in Scotland would not make it easy for someone to go through the assisted dying process. Anyone who wishes to go through with it must have a terminal, incurable illness, and must be deemed to be near the end of their lives. Although the proposed bill currently contains no recommendation on exactly how long someone might naturally have left to live.

Spain is the latest country to pass an assisted dying bill, giving people the option to end their lives when they choose. From March this year, those living in Spain who suffer from incurable illnesses can begin the process to end their own lives.  

In Spain, a doctor can administer the final drug – something which would not be allowed were the law to change in Scotland.

Other Contributors include: 

Dr Gordon MacDonald, Chief Executive Care not Killing, believes it would put people who are vulnerable in a very dangerous situation, that they would come under pressure to end their lives prematurely and rather than that we should be investing in proper palliative care.  

Ally Thompson, Director – Dignity in Dying – says the current blanket ban is unfair and unjust, and causes so many dying people and their families to suffer needlessly. He believes legalising assisted dying for terminally ill, mentally competent adults, would be better.

Liam MacArthur MSP for Orkney Islands – he thinks people have increasingly come to the conclusion that having this choice of an assisted death is compassionate, it’s what a progressive country ought to aspire to,

Rev Domhnall Michael Macinnes – he believes that passing this Bill would open Pandora’s Box and we should be encouraging life for people because it’s a precious gift from God. Mr MacInnes, who is minister of Gairbraid Church in Maryhill, Glasgow, is originally from Lewis. He is also a former minister at St Columba’s Church in St Vincent Street, Glasgow.

Javier Serrano Martin from Spain – was the first person in Madrid to die under the new assisted dying legislation. He suffered from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and spoke to Eorpa shortly before his death.