Two major cultural moments related to one of Scotland’s most famous figures, Mary, Queen of Scots, will coincide in Aberdeen this autumn.
A rare silver casket believed to have been owned by the controversial Queen – a Highlight Loan from National Museums Scotland – will be on display at Aberdeen Art Gallery from 11 October to 19 April, while from 2 to 4 October Aberdeen Performing Arts will welcome Scottish Ballet’s acclaimed production of Mary, Queen of Scots to His Majesty’s Theatre, following sell-out performances and rave reviews at the Edinburgh International Festival.
The Mary, Queen of Scots Casket was acquired for the nation in 2022 for £1.8 million thanks to support from the National Heritage Memorial Fund, Art Fund, the Scottish Government and several trusts, foundations and individual donors. Made in Paris, probably between 1493 and 1510, the casket is a superb and extremely rare work of early French silver, very little of which survives, even in France. It is likely that its long-standing association with Mary has kept it preserved for over 450 years.
Scottish Ballet’s major new production Mary, Queen of Scots, from choreographer Sophie Laplane and co-creator James Bonas, draws on the complex relationship between Mary and Queen Elizabeth I of England, as cousins, rivals and a danger to the other. Soutra Gilmour’s striking, contemporary set is complemented by dazzling costumes that capture the grandeur of the era, with nods to haute couture and punk. New music, by the team behind 2022 hit Coppélia, is performed live by the Scottish Ballet Orchestra.
Having premiered at the Edinburgh International Festival in August, Mary, Queen of Scots thrilled critics and audiences alike: “One of the most visually captivating and emotionally arresting shows ever to emerge from the Scottish Ballet stable. Mary, Queen of Scots isn’t just a gift that keeps on giving, it’s like a game of pass-the-parcel with a fascinating new layer to unwrap every few minutes. Bravo to every single person, on-stage and off, who contributed to this masterpiece of modern ballet.” (The List)
Councillor Martin Greig, Aberdeen City Council’s culture spokesman, said, “It is thrilling that people in Aberdeen and visitors to the city will have the opportunity to experience these two major cultural events relating to Mary, Queen of Scots. The excellent opportunity to see the renowned silver casket in the city can be linked up with enjoyment of Scottish Ballet's wonderful dance performances. These are splendid ways to appreciate diverse art forms around a similar historical theme. These are activities which add so much to the city's wellbeing."
Dr Anna Groundwater, Principal Curator of Renaissance and Early Modern History at National Museums Scotland said, “One of Scotland’s national treasures, this extraordinary casket has been venerated as a relic of Mary, Queen of Scots for centuries, and I’m delighted that visitors to Aberdeen Art Gallery will have the opportunity to see it up close. Beyond its connections to one of Scotland’s most famous figures, it is a rare and spectacular piece of historic silver in its own right. This highlight loan is part of National Museums Scotland’s National Strategy, which sees collections and expertise shared with museums across Scotland.”
Ben Torrie, Aberdeen Performing Arts Director of Programming and Creative Projects, , said: “This incredible new production from Scottish Ballet, as well as the chance to view a remarkable piece of history at the Art Gallery is testament to Mary, Queen of Scots as an enduring figure in our cultural identity, who continues to fascinate and inspire to this day.”
Christopher Hampson, Artistic Director/CEO of Scottish Ballet said: “In this world premiere season, we’re excited to present our new production Mary, Queen of Scots in Aberdeen – a city with a rich history of its own. The story is iconic, and part of our heritage in Scotland. Audiences can expect bold and exciting choreography that blends classicism with modernity, reshaping a familiar story with powerful originality.”