Politics and Young People

It is often stated that young people aren’t interested in politics – but is this true? Disputing this assumption, the 2009 Festival of Politics will include a range of events aimed at, or featuring young people.

Tying in with the Homecoming Scotland, Oor Rabbie (11am, Saturday 22 August) uses live music and witty storytelling to provide the perfect introduction (or refresher!), for people aged eight and over, to the life and work of Scotland’s National Bard, Rabbie Burns.

Also examining the life and work of Rabble Burns, Scottish Youth Theatre’s production of Love But Her (6pm, Saturday 22 August) tells the story of Jean Armour – the wife of Robert Burns – from her early days, to life and death in Dumfries.  Featuring Burns’s songs and poems, the piece charts both their great love and turbulent relationship.

On the same day as the play is performed in the Parliament’s Chamber, Scottish Youth Theatre will also host two Drama Workshops (11am & 2pm Saturday 22 August) which will provide an opportunity for young people to explore the themes developed in Love But Her.

Allowing young people an opportunity to quiz politicians and commentators directly, Young People's Question Time (2pm Friday 21 August) is hosted by Channel 4 and Off the Ball’s Stuart Cosgrove, and will feature a panel of famous faces from Scottish politics and the media.

Whether young, or not so young, this year’s Festival certainly provides an opportunity to explore politics in a fun and stimulating way.