Tag: Billy Connolly

Glasgow 850 to Celebrate the Big Yin with Weekend Tribute

Glasgow is set to honour one of its most iconic sons, Sir Billy Connolly, with a celebration this September as part of the Glasgow 850 programme.

The Big Yin Weekend, taking place on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September, will honour to the legendary Glaswegian comedian, musician, storyteller and artist through a vibrant mix of music, comedy, film and walking and cycling tours.

Sir Billy Connolly, who was awarded the Freedom of the City of Glasgow in 2010, has long been regarded as the voice and spirit of the city. His enduring career has brought laughter, insight and pride to generations of Glaswegians, and this celebration of his life and career reflects the deep affection the city holds for him.

The Big Yin Weekend is part of the wider Glasgow 850 programme – a year-long celebration marking the city’s 850th birthday. Led by Glasgow City Council, the programme showcases the people, culture and creativity that make Glasgow a truly unique place to live, work and visit.

Highlights of the weekend include:

  • The Big Yin Tune-In – A free pop-up musical performance at The Park Bar featuring Gary Innes & Friends and the premiere performance of a new song entitled ‘Big Yin’ by Scottish supergroup Mànran, to celebrate Billy Conolly’s contribution to folk music and commemorate the 60th anniversary of The Humblebums.
  • ‘Big Yin’s Best Of ‘– A comedy showcase presented by Glasgow International Comedy Festival, featuring past winners and nominees of the Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award.
  • Big Banana Feet screening – A special showing at Glasgow Film Theatre of the fly on the wall documentary following Billy Connolly on his 1975 tour of Ireland, introduced by comedian Scott Agnew.
  • Walking and cycling tours – Gallus Pedals Tours will host walking and cycling tours across the weekend inspired by Billy’s life and legacy, taking in key locations and mural sites across the city.

While the pop-up musical performance is free to attend, tickets for the other events are being sold at reduced prices to allow as many people as possible to attend.

Leader of Glasgow City Council, Cllr Susan Aitken, said: “Throughout our birthday year Sir Billy Connolly’s name has come up time and time again. As arguably the city’s best loved and most famous modern-day Glaswegian, we couldn’t celebrate this landmark year for the city without honouring Billy.

“Billy’s pioneering stand-up has always drawn on Glasgow’s spirit, resilience and uniquely funny bones, and then added his very own special brand of freewheeling genius to bring laughter and joy to millions. This weekend responds to the huge affection people have for the Big Yin with a living tribute to his comedy, music, storytelling and contribution to the arts – and to Glasgow.”

Gary Innes of Mànran and Hoolie in the Hydro, said: “Billy Connolly is a true representation of Glasgow ­– the city’s wit, warmth, spirit and love of music. This year’s Hoolie in the Hydro on 13th December is called The Big Yin and we will round off Glasgow’s birthday year with a tribute to one of the city’s most famous sons.

“As a warm-up to our own toast to Billy, it is fantastic to be part of The Big Yin Weekend and join other institutions from across the city in celebrating the Glasgow legend. Get along to the legendary Park Bar to see the first ever performance of The Big Yin, a tune that I have composed in honour of Sir Billy and raise a glass to the man himself, and Glasgow’s 850th year.”

Krista MacDonald, Festival Director, Glasgow International Comedy Festival, said, “Sir Billy Connolly is the heartbeat of Glasgow’s comedy spirit, a trailblazer whose wit, warmth and honesty put Scottish comedy on the world stage. He embodies the humour, resilience and character of this city, and continues to inspire every performer who steps onto our stages. 

“At the Glasgow International Comedy Festival, his legacy is felt in every laugh, reminding us that comedy here isn’t just entertainment, it’s part of who we are. We are excited to celebrate the Big Yin and Glasgow’s 850th celebrations with a special comedy event in the new Stand Comedy Club.”

Paul Gallagher, Head of Programme at Glasgow Film, said: “We’re thrilled to be part of The Big Yin Weekend with a special screening of Murray Grigor’s Big Banana Feet at GFT, complete with an introduction from Glasgow-based comedian Scott Agnew.

“Rarely screened since its initial release, the documentary captures Billy Connolly’s comic genius, musical flair and unmistakable Glaswegian charm off-stage.

“Lovingly restored by the BFI using the only 16mm print known to exist, the film was a sell-out hit when it premiered at Glasgow Film Festival in 2024, and we’re sure audiences will jump at the chance to experience Connolly’s larger-than-life talent on the big screen.”

Martin Heaney, Founder of Gallus Pedals, said: “As perhaps the most loved Glaswegian there’s a Billy Connolly reference on almost every one of our tours – not because every guest has heard of him, but because he brings humour to the most ordinary parts of life and has influenced how many of us describe this place. 

“It’s been a real joy discovering and exploring parts of the city that helped shape him both as a person and shaped his career and being able to share those locations on our tours.” 

More information on attending the free music event or booking tickets at glasgow850.com or on each of the partners’ websites.

A Big Map for the Big Yin!

Interactive map launched to celebrate Billy Connolly

A BIG MAP FOR THE BIG YIN! 

  • National Theatre of Scotland launches a new interactive map for Scotland to demonstrate its love for the Big Yin, inviting people to share their own Billy Connolly memories. 
  • National Theatre of Scotland’s acclaimed, five-star, sell-out production, celebrating Scotland’s most loved comedian, Billy Connolly, returns to stages in 2024.

ABOUT THE BIG MAP FOR THE BIG YIN 

Billy Connolly’s relationship with Scotland spans his extraordinary life and career over the last 80 years.  The National Theatre of Scotland wants to create a map of all the places that have a personal connection to Billy, to help create a love letter from the people of Scotland to their favourite comedian.  They are inviting people to share their knowledge of Billy, stories, memories and photos, to make a living tribute to The Big Yin. 

Billy Connolly toured the folk clubs, the grand theatres and workings men’s clubs of Scotland from 1970’s, retiring from live performance in 2018. 

Born at 69 Dover Street, Anderston, he worked the shipyards of Glasgow’s Clydeside in the 1960’s, before taking to the road with folk rock band The Humblebums. 

He made his theatrical debut, in 1972 at the Cottage Theatre in Cumbernauld, ahead of performing in The Great Northern Welly Boot Show at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, also that year. 

Billy first established himself as a star, selling out a run and  breaking box office records at Glasgow’s Pavilion Theatre in Jan/Feb 1974, returning to the theatre on many occasions.  

In January 1994, he undertook a World Tour of Scotland  on a Harley Davidson, taking him from Kelso to Kirkwall with a stop off at Eden Court, Inverness, broadcast on the BBC later in the year.  His love affair with his native country, continued with his residence at Candacraig House, in Aberdeenshire. 

Further information on the map and how to be involved can be found here 

ABOUT THE BIG MAP FOR THE BIG YIN 

Billy Connolly’s relationship with Scotland spans his extraordinary life and career over the last 80 years.  The National Theatre of Scotland wants to create a map of all the places that have a personal connection to Billy, to help create a love letter from the people of Scotland to their favourite comedian.  They are inviting people to share their knowledge of Billy, stories, memories and photos, to make a living tribute to The Big Yin. 

Billy Connolly toured the folk clubs, the grand theatres and workings men’s clubs of Scotland from 1970’s, retiring from live performance in 2018. 

Born at 69 Dover Street, Anderston, he worked the shipyards of Glasgow’s Clydeside in the 1960’s, before taking to the road with folk rock band The Humblebums. 

He made his theatrical debut, in 1972 at the Cottage Theatre in Cumbernauld, ahead of performing in The Great Northern Welly Boot Show at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, also that year. 

Billy first established himself as a star, selling out a run and  breaking box office records at Glasgow’s Pavilion Theatre in Jan/Feb 1974, returning to the theatre on many occasions.  

In January 1994, he undertook a World Tour of Scotland  on a Harley Davidson, taking him from Kelso to Kirkwall with a stop off at Eden Court, Inverness, broadcast on the BBC later in the year.  His love affair with his native country, continued with his residence at Candacraig House, in Aberdeenshire. 

Further information on the map and how to be involved can be found here

Gary McNair – writer and performer of Dear Billy said: “I’m delighted we are launching the Big Map for the Big Yin where people can pin their own stories and connections to Billy. As we learned when interviewing people to make this show- everyone has something to say about Billy, whether that’s a memorable meeting or a connection to his work.  

“The great thing about the Big Map is that there is a space where people can continue to share and hopefully build an interactive document about what he means to us all. 

“I’m beyond giddy to be bringing the show Dear Billy back so soon after it’s tour last year. It is a genuine honour to have been trusted to make this show, Billy is so important to so many people that it was so well received was a dream come true.

“I can’t wait to get back on the road with the band and meet new amazing audience.”

ABOUT THE SHOW  

National Theatre of Scotland presents   

DEAR BILLY   

A Love Letter to the Big Yin   From the People of Scotland   

Written and performed by Gary McNair, Directed by Joe Douglas   

Music performed and composed by Simon Liddell and Jill O’Sullivan, Set and Costume designed by Claire Halleran, Lighting design by Kate Bonney and Simon Hayes, dramaturgy by Joe Douglas. 

Touring Scotland and England in May followed by a run at Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August 2024 

Opening at His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen then touring to Pavilion Theatre, Glasgow; and Eden Court, Inverness. 

Followed by a two-week run at the Assembly Rooms as part of the Assembly Festival programme for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2024.  

“Vivid, funny and poignant.” ​★★★★★ ​The Guardian 

“A gloriously masterful 90 minutes of theatre.” ​★★★★★ ​The Telegraph 

Dear Billy Production Photos - Photo credit Sally Jubb 07

In 2023 National Theatre of Scotland’s production of Dear Billy undertook a 17 venue Scotland-wide tour, reaching over 8000 people.

Originally announced to mark Billy Connolly’s 80th birthday year, the production was enthusiastically received by audiences, selling-out at venues across Scotland, garnering a wealth of positive reviews and due to popular demand is now back on tour again in 2024. 

“If you want to know about Billy Connolly, ask the people of Scotland. If you want to know about the people of Scotland, ask them about Billy Connolly.” 

Billy Connolly needs no introduction. He is a national treasure. From the shipyards of the Clydeside to his trailblazing and extraordinary stage and movie exploits, he is woven into Scottish culture.   

Everyone has a Billy story. An expert team of story gatherers has created a collection of these moving and hilarious tales. Gary McNair, one of Scotland’s most renowned theatre-makers, has turned these stories into a special show celebrating the Big Yin and what he means to the people of Scotland.  

The production will tour in May 2024, opening at His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen before touring to Pavilion Theatre, Glasgow and Eden Court in Inverness with a two-week run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August 2024. 

Dear Billy is a unique touring production that evolved on the road. It travelled the length and breadth of Scotland in 2023, visiting local theatres, arts and community centres gathering stories along the way which were woven into the show as the tour progressed.   

Gary McNair is hitting the road once more with two musicians. Audience members are welcomed to share their own Billy stories, with the possibility of those stories making it into the performance. Each show offers a unique chance for audiences to laugh, sing, and celebrate the man and the legend.  

“The perfect tribute to a man who has left his gloriously indelible mark, not only on the art of stand-up comedy, but on the culture of Scotland.”  The National 

“What emerges is a brilliant portrait not only of the Big Yin as others see him, but of his importance as a cultural touchstone to many Scots” ★★★★, The Times 

Dear Billy is written and performed by leading Scottish theatre-maker Gary McNair whose recent work includes the acclaimed Nae Expectations, a fresh take on the Dickens classic for the Tron Theatre; Ugly! A Cinderella Story for Cumbernauld Theatre Company and a new adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s Jekyll and Hyde featuring a solo performance from Forbes Masson which opened at the Royal Lyceum Theatre, Edinburgh in January 2024 before touring.  

The production is directed by Joe Douglas whose work for National Theatre of Scotland includes The Cheviot, The Stag and the Black, Black Oil, Dear Scotland and Associate Director for Black Watch. Joe previously collaborated with Gary on McGonagall’s Chronicles (Which Will Be Remembered for a Very Long Time).  

Musicians re-joining Gary on the road are Simon Liddell whose work for theatre includes The Domestic (Scenes for Survival/National Theatre of Scotland) and McGonagall’s Chronicles (Which Will Be Remembered for a Very Long Time) and Jill O’Sullivan who writes and performs across the worlds of popular music, theatre and dance.  

“A vivid, charismatic piece of theatre.”  ★★★★★ The Skinny  

Billy Connolly, or, the Big Yin, whom this show is dedicated to, is Scotland’s most beloved comedian, with an impressive career as a stand-up, actor, writer and musician spanning more than 50 years. In 2022, Connolly was awarded the BAFTA Fellowship for lifetime achievement.   

Gary McNair is a Glasgow based writer and performer. He is a three-time Fringe First winner and has produced work for and with many of Scotland’s major theatre companies.

His plays have been translated and performed all over the world, from Germany to Japan, from New York to New Zealand. Gary’s work includes A Gambler’s Guide to Dying, Square Go (co-written with Kieran Hurley); McGonagall’s Chronicles Which Will Be Remembered for a Very Long Time, Donald Robertson Is Not a Stand-Up Comedian, After The Cuts, Letters to Morrissey and Locker Room Talk. These plays are published by Methuen.    

Joe Douglas is a theatre director, playwright and performer.

Joe’s career began as Trainee Director at the National Theatre of Scotland from 2007 to 2008. He was the Artistic Director of Live Theatre from 2018 to 2020, and before that, Asspcoate Artistic Director of Dundee Rep and Co-Artistic Director of the Utter touring company. His work includes Clear White Light, Death of a Salesman, Spoiling, The BFG, George’s Marvellous Medicine, The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui, Educating Ronnie, Letters Home, The Red Shed, Stand By and The Cheviot, the Stag and the Black, Black Oil.    

Touring to His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen (Thu 16-Sat 18 May); Pavilion Theatre, Glasgow (Wed 22-Sat 25 May); Eden Court, Inverness (Tue 28-Wed 29 May); Quays Theatre, The Lowry, Salford (Sat 1 June); Assembly Rooms, Edinburgh Festival Fringe (Tues 13 – Sun 25 August, no shows on Wednesdays)  

On social: #DearBilly   

Access: Theatre for a Fiver tickets available for under 26’s and those on Universal Credit  

BSL interpreted, audio described and captioned performances full information here.  

Tour information and full creative biogs here.