National competition aims to brew up talent in the Highlands
A NATIONAL competition by Deuchars IPA is encouraging up-and-coming performers in The Highlands to share their talent with the chance of performing live at an Edinburgh venue.
The inaugural ‘Deuchars Beermat Fringe’ aims to give both professional and amateur acts the opportunity to be part of the world’s biggest arts festival and to take part in this unique online competition, believed to be the first of its kind for the Fringe.
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe official sponsorship partner, and beer of the Fringe, Deuchars IPA has also teamed up with acclaimed author, Ian Rankin, to judge and present the top act with the ‘Deuchar’ award at the Brewery on August 7.
Entrants aged 25 or over will be asked to submit a short video via Deuchars IPA’s dedicated Facebook site (www.facebook.com/DeucharsIPA) of their performance, which could be a poem, sketch, routine or any other act that includes the line ‘ You’re Due a Deuchars’.
The competition will be advertised on beermats within selected pubs in the Highlands that stock Deuchars IPA, which is brewed by Caledonian Brewery, as well via social media.
Stephen Crawley, Managing Director of Caledonian Brewery, said: “We’re really excited about the Deuchars Beermat Fringe. It’s the first time something like this has run alongside the Fringe and is a great way for anyone who has a talent they want to shout about to be a part of the biggest, most exciting arts festival around.
“This is our fourth year of supporting the Fringe and we see the partnership as ‘the greatest double act’ as there’s an obvious connection between us - Edinburgh. We’re proud of our associations with the city and both organisations value their balance of history and modernity.
“So, whether you’re a professional, or simply someone who has a flair to share that will make us smile, laugh (or cry!), we want to hear about it.
“Having one of the best writers in the country be a part of the judging panel is brilliant. I’m personally a huge fan of Rebus in particular, and it obviously makes it even better that Inspector Rebus’ favourite pint is our very own Deuchars IPA.
“We’re looking forward to seeing what the people of The Highlands have to offer – good luck to all entrants.”
