The Burns an a' That festival got under way on Saturday 3 May at Burns Cottage with the preview of The Houghmagandie Pack a brand new work by leading young Scottish theatre company Grid Iron. The play, which is a promenade piece, specially designed to be performed in Burns National Heritage Park, tells the story of Burns' life from the death of his father in 1784 to his return to Ayrshire and reconciliation with Jean Armour in 1788 - arguably the four stormiest years of the poet's life. During the play, Burns is hounded by Jean's family, is persuaded to publish his first work, encounters fame and city lights in Edinburgh and eventually has to choose between the temptations of sophisticated city life and the countryside he loves. One of the highlights of the Burns an a' That festival, which runs from 3 - 11 May 2003, The Houghmagandie Pack is just one of a number of treats in store at Burns National Heritage Park during the festival. Read the Scotsman review of the play.

Robert Burns, your Bard, by the Way! is a romping comedy by Baudran Productions that compresses the whole of Burns' life (and death) into a breakneck 70 minutes. It runs from 5 May, when a special opening night in aid of the Uist Hedgehog rescue will be attended by the Duchess of Hamilton. On saturday 10 May, auld Betty Davidson will be visiting Burns Cottage to tell some more of the ghost and fairy stories that inspired young Robert Burns. With live music and performances throughout Ayr and the surrounding region as well as a film festival, lectures and special community events, the Burns an a' That festival is the perfect time to come and visit Burns National Heritage Park.

For tickets and more information, telephone 01292 443700