Liz Gordon writes with news of an upcoming social event in the village of Eassie, about ten miles North of Dundee:
A McGONAGALL SUPPER
There will be a McGONAGALL SUPPER at Eassie Hall (on the Glamis to Newtyle Road at Balkeerie, Angus DD8 1SQ) on Saturday 15 October at 7.30 for 7.00pm. (No, not a mis-print in the start time but just part of the topsy turvy nature of this fun event which includes a reverse-order three course meal to fulfil and fill full!) All very welcome!
Most folk around here will have heard of William McGonagall – and may groan at what many consider his truly awful poetry – but this event aims to put the best possible spin on a man who could be regarded as the best-known Dundonian (although unfortunately not for the best reasons).
Our guest speakers include two Dundee authors, Eddie Small and Norman Watson, both of whom have wide knowledge of William McGonagall. There will of course be some memorable poetry (performed by those who can!). Other entertainment on the night includes a ‘best dressed Bunnet competition’ – so, bring or wear a mad hat if you will!
Tickets for this event cost £15.00 and are for sale at Newtyle Post Office and The Pot and Pantry, Meigle. For more information about the event and enquiries about tickets, please phone Jane on 01307 840313 or Liz on 01828 640027.
Norman Watson, one of the guest speakers, is the author of Poet McGonagall: The Biography of William McGonagall and a fund of information about our favourite doyen of doggerel. Here’s hoping the evening goes well!
Brilliant, this is just what we need. For too long that upstart Burns has had a night to be celebrated whilst Scotland’s (and the world’s) greatest poet has been ignored. McGonagall night should be an annual event wherever cultured people congregate.