Organised by Midlothian Council and local organisations, the first Midfest includes more than 60 events across the county, from Saturday 21 September to Sunday 29 September.
Highlights of the programme include performances by the award-winning Pathhead Music Collective, a family launch event at Dalkeith Country Estate on Saturday 21 September, storytelling at Rosslyn Chapel and an evening with renowned folk musician, Ewan McLennan.
Councillor Lisa Beattie (pictured right), cabinet member for culture, said: “Here in Midlothian, we are lifting the curtain on a well keep secret, in that we have a wealth of talent. We have a wide variety of excellent people, organisations, associations and companies who have all been brilliant in helping to make this debut, multi-strand festival a reality.
“Thanks to everyone’s efforts we are able to offer a diverse and fantastic range of events, days out and shows right across the arts, from music, to drama, to storytelling, to arts and crafts, visual arts and comedy.”
Councillor Beattie said she was hoping Midfest would become an annual event in the county.
She added: “By late September we’ll all have recovered from the festivals in Edinburgh and we’ll be hungry for something that little bit different.
“Midfest is a showcase for scores of talented groups and individuals – whether they’re a weaver, an actor or a musician – and we hope as many residents and people living outwith the county will join together to laugh, dance, have fun and enjoy themselves.”
Rosslyn Chapel is hosting a series of events including a candlelit music night and tour featuring the Edinburgh Academy Choir. One of Scotland’s most acclaimed storytellers, Marion Kenny, will also be at Rosslyn weaving magical stories in the chapel about its mysterious carvings and myths.
For more details of the programme visit www.midlothian.gov.uk/midfest
