Byrnes Night & Special Guests

David Byrne’s Night arrives at the Old Fruitmarket with a joyous collision of song, poetry and theatrical flair. Celebrating the unlikely shared heritage of Robert Burns and Talking Heads frontman David Byrne, this one-of-a-kind live experience brings together a rotating collective of musicians from across the indie, punk and experimental worlds to reinterpret Byrne’s iconic catalogue alongside stirring recitals of Burns’ verse.

Expect infectious rhythms, art-rock classics, unexpected collaborations and moments where literature and live music intertwine in surprising ways. The ever-changing house band creates an atmosphere of spontaneity and creative freedom, while playful theatrical touches and a sense of collective celebration keep the energy high throughout the evening. Equal parts gig, cultural gathering and artistic happening, no two performances are ever quite the same.

Set within the characterful surroundings of the Old Fruitmarket on Burns Night itself, this promises to be one of the festival’s most distinctive winter celebrations.