Beyond The Bothy - Bothy Ballad Singing Competition
Channel: Cairn Production
Date: 2015-10-18

Across the North East of Scotland - follow 6 competitive singers aged 16 to 76 as they fight it out to win the coveted Brose Bowl and become the  'Champion of Champions'  the ultimate accolade in the Bothy singing world.

In this documentary, we venture deep into the heart of rural Scotland to uncover the enduring tradition of Bothy Ballads, a form of folk music that has been the lifeblood of the farming communities in the north and northeast for centuries. This film takes us to the prestigious Elgin competition, where the craft of Bothy singing is both celebrated and contested, offering a window into the lives of those who keep this tradition alive.

In an exploration marked by both reverence and a critical eye, this documentary delves into the tradition of Bothy Ballads, a cornerstone of Scottish cultural heritage. Through the lens of the Elgin competition, we observe not just a contest of vocal prowess but a meaningful assembly that bridges generations, keeping the flame of Scottish folklore burning brightly in the modern age.

Featuring a cast of characters as diverse as the ballads they perform, from seasoned veterans like Gordon Easton and Joe Aitken to the youthful enthusiasm of Neil Cooley, the film paints a vivid portrait of dedication, passion, and community. These are not merely performers but custodians of a way of life, each with a story deeply entwined with the land and its history.

As the competition unfolds, the documentary highlights the nuances of Bothy singing, the meticulous preparations undertaken by the contenders, and the palpable tension as they await their turn on stage. The role of the judge, pivotal yet unenviable, underscores the subjective nature of art and the complexities involved in adjudicating such a deeply personal and cultural expression.

This film is more than a mere chronicle of an event; it is an introspective journey into the soul of a nation, exploring how traditions like Bothy Ballads serve as a conduit for collective memory, identity, and resistance against the homogenizing forces of modernity. It questions, celebrates, and critically examines the role of such traditions in contemporary Scottish life, offering insights into the challenges of preservation and the inevitable evolution of folk practices.

Join us for a compelling exploration of Bothy Ballads, where every note sung is a thread woven into the rich tapestry of Scottish culture, and every performance is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, music, and community. This documentary is an invitation to experience the beauty and complexity of Scotland's rural heritage, through the voices of those who live it.