News
Jasper the Kirkwall Cat
World Premiere presented as part of St Magnus Festival, which celebrates its 50th year in summer 2026. This fun story with music for all the family was created by Artistic Director Alasdair Nicolson, in honour of the much-loved feline resident of Albert Street in Kirkwall, Jasper was a regular visitor to many of the shops including St Magnus Festival office where he would often 'help' with preparations.
​
Meet Jasper and his friends Magnus the Mouse and Sigurd the Seagull as they go on a mystery adventure around the streets of Kirkwall. What has disturbed their quiet daily life?
​
THE ASSEMBLY PROJECT
Jessica Leary Narrator
Alasdair Nicolson Conductor
The Bestiary of Brilliant Beasts
Drawing on John Gallas's collection of poems about endangered species, David Knotts has created a vibrant and colourful musical score which brings to life such creatures as the Blobfish, the Goblin Shark, the Flying Fox and the Mole Rat amongst others.
​
A crazy cavalcade of critters is brought to life with narration and illustrated projections, and the musicians of The Assembly Project.
​
THE ASSEMBLY PROJECT
Jessica Leary Narrator
Alasdair Nicolson Conductor
The Assembly Project Board
The Assembly Project is delighted to welcome May Halyburton to its Board of Trustees.
​
May Halyburton brings a wealth of experience to the Board. An in-demand Double Bassist & Bass Guitarist, she has worked extensively as
an orchestral, chamber and session musician, both nationally and internationally. May is a
passionate music educator, teaching double bass and bass guitar to players of all ages and
stages. She regularly coaches youth orchestras from school to national level and is a tutor with
the Benedetti Foundation. May is a published author and created her project, Bessy Bass, to help
promote music and the double bass to children. May also sits on the Board of Edinburgh Youth Orchestra and is a Trustee of the Scottish Bass Trust.
​
May will join The Assembly Project ensemble for their midsummer performances at St Magnus International Festival.