Hear Here Project Launch

Amplifying voices unheard

Hear | Here is a three-year initiative dedicated to celebrating the heritage, identity, and culture of underrepresented communities in Dumfries through public art, print media, and immersive experiences. Our mission is to amplify diverse voices, preserve rich cultural legacies, and foster creative campaigns that engage the community in appreciating the vibrancy of these cultures. In our first year, we’ll spotlight the Travelling Showpeople, whose profound contributions have shaped Dumfries’ industrial, cultural, and civic identity since the mid-1500s.

In collaboration with local organisations, charities, and community groups, Hear | Here intertwines creativity with advocacy, citizenship, and human rights. This project arrives at a pivotal moment for Dumfries, addressing themes of regeneration, climate change, cultural heritage, and integration to help shape the town’s future.

Join us for an evening of talks and films featuring guest speakers, along with an immersive walking experience to Biddall’s Bridge. Together, we’ll ignite this exciting project that celebrates the diversity of Dumfries communities. We warmly invite Doonhamers, both old and new, as well as those from afar, to come, share some scran, learn more, and help shape this vibrant initiative.

The Travelling Showpeople have a deep-rooted connection to Dumfries, significantly influencing the town’s cultural and civic identity over the centuries. Their legacy dates back to World War II, when a large group resided in the area, contributing to local businesses and important civic projects.

Before this, the Showpeople are believed to have partially financed the iconic suspension bridge known as ‘Biddall’s Bridge.’ This bridge is named after the Biddall family, legendary Showpeople who introduced the first projected film to Dumfries through the ‘Biddall’s Bioscope’ and played a key role in establishing many of Scotland’s first cinemas. They were also renowned for their mesmerising Ghost Illusion shows, utilising the Pepper’s Ghost technique.

A testament to this unique relationship is the continuation of two of Scotland’s last four traditional street fairs, both held in Dumfries: the Rood Fair in September and the Spring Fair in March. These fairs, situated along the River Nith, have been vital in preserving the cultural heritage of the Travelling Showpeople and remain central to the town's cultural life.

The immense cultural value of these traditional street fairs is recognised in the UNESCO Convention on the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage (2003), highlighting their importance in maintaining our shared heritage.

Host or Publisher The Stove Network