An evening exploring the legacy of one of Scotland’s most renowned authors in words, film, and conversation.
Edinburgh Makar, author, and debut novelist, Michael Pedersen, will shepherd us through a vivacious night in homage to Robert Louis Stevenson and storytelling.
The night will begin with a screening of 'Pedersen and The Spirit of Robert Louis Stevenson', which is a short documentary by Spanish filmmaker David Carrillo. Presented by Pedersen, the film features the National Library's curator Dr Colin McIlory with highlights from the Library's treasured Robert Louis Stevenson archives. David and Colin will join us for a lively post-screening chat.
Following this, Pedersen will be joined by internationally acclaimed novelist Val McDermid, who will share her passion for Stevenson and her love of literature. Together, they'll bring Stevenson’s work to life through readings and stories while reflecting on their own literary journeys.
This event is part of our current display 'Tusitala: Pacific Perspectives on Robert Louis Stevenson', which is on at George IV Bridge until 10 May.
About the speakers
Michael Pedersen is a prize-winning poet and author, the Writer in Residence at The University of Edinburgh and the Edinburgh Makar. Pedersen has been shortlisted for the Forward Prizes Poetry and the Saltire Scottish National Book Awards and has won a Robert Louis Stevenson Fellowship.
Dubbed the Queen of Crime, Val McDermid is a celebrated and bestselling Scottish crime writer. She has sold over 19 million books to date across the globe and is translated into more than 40 languages.
David Carrillo is a Spanish filmmaker based in Edinburgh. He has worked in feature films, commercials and festivals. 'Pedersen and the Spirit of Robert Louis Stevenson' is his more recent project as a director.
Dr Colin McIlroy is the Curator of Modern Literary Manuscripts at the National Library of Scotland.
'Everyday courage has few witnesses. But yours is no less noble because no drum beats for you and no crowds shout your name.' — Robert Louis Stevenson
Refreshments will be available to purchase at the cafe before the event begins at 6:30pm.
Tickets
- Supporter ticket: £10
- Standard ticket: £5
- Low income ticket: Free
