Aberdeen Arts Centre has unveiled another exciting month of shows in August, with a number of them raising funds for the ongoing campaign to Save Aberdeen Arts Centre. From classic Americana to award-winning magic shows, quiz nights to comedy poetry, the venue boasts a variety of productions with something for everyone.
As well as these productions, the venue is also launching a new term of their Creative Learning Programme, which provides creative opportunities for young people and adults from across the city.
Shows & Events
10 August , 7.30pm – Music
Dean Friedman in Concert
Legendary US singer-songwriter Dean Friedman returns to Aberdeen Arts Centre. Best known for hits such as Ariel, Lucky Stars, and McDonald’s Girl, Friedman delivers a solo performance featuring heartfelt, humorous, and iconic songs from his four-decade career.
https://www.aberdeenartscentre.com/whats-on/dean-friedman-in-concert-2025
15 August, 7.30pm – Community
Save Aberdeen Arts Centre Quiz Night 2: The Sequel!
Following a sell-out success, the fundraising quiz night returns with brand new rounds, raffles, and games – all in support of the Save Aberdeen Arts Centre campaign. Teams of up to six can compete for great prizes, or solo participants can be matched on the night. Tickets are £10 per person. Early booking is advised.
https://www.aberdeenartscentre.com/whats-on/save-aberdeen-arts-centre-quiz-night-2-the-sequel
16 August, 7pm – Variety
Four Magicians
Following a sell-out performance earlier this year, Aberdeen’s own Four Magicians return in support of the Save Aberdeen Arts Centre campaign. Featuring Smith & Burns, Eoin Smith, and James Dickson, this award-winning show – named best magic show in the UK in 2024 – combines mind-reading, sleight of hand, and sharp comedy.
https://www.aberdeenartscentre.com/whats-on/four-magicians-2
29 August, 7pm – Comedy
Sid Ozalid: 1 Very Sill Old Man with Magical Rhymes
Fresh from sold-out shows at the Brighton Fringe, Rik Mayall Comedy Festival, and Belladrum, award-winning performer Sid Ozalid brings his fast-paced mix of comedy, magic, song, and poetry to Aberdeen. This family-friendly show, in support of the Save Aberdeen Arts Centre campaign, features interactive fun, mind-reading socks, and plenty of nonsense for audiences aged 8 to 80+.
https://www.aberdeenartscentre.com/whats-on/1-very-silly-old-man-with-magical-rhymes
30 August, 7pm – Film
Hamish Henderson, An Artist’s Impression
This documentary explores the life of Scottish folklorist and poet Hamish Henderson through the eyes of artist Charles Nasmyth. Featuring interviews, rare footage, and personal reflections, the film delves into Henderson’s cultural legacy and political influence. Screening in the Café Bar.
https://www.aberdeenartscentre.com/whats-on/hamish-henderson-an-artists-inspiration
Creative Learning
Creative Classes
Aberdeen Arts Centre’s Creative Learning sessions for young people and adults encourage a lifetime of creativity, with a new term beginning on 19 August.
Sessions for young people include:
· Castlegate Theatre Company, age 12-17, Wednesday, 5-7pm
· Drama, age 8-11, Saturday, 10-11am
· Drama, age 12-15, Saturday, 11.30am-12.30pm
Sessions for adults include:
· Songwriter Sessions, age 16+, Tuesday (monthly), 7-9pm
· Drama Toolbox, age 18+, Wednesday, 7.30-9pm
To get involved and for more info, visit: https://www.aberdeenartscentre.com/creative-learning
Looking ahead for the next three months, the venue can boast an equally varied line-up, including comedy from stars of BBC’s Still Game, musicals, drama and dance.
Fundraising continues
Aberdeen Arts Centre is an independent arts venue in the heart of Aberdeen, operated by registered charity Castlegate Arts Ltd for over a quarter of a century.
For more than 60 years, Aberdeen Arts Centre has played a crucial role in the north east’s vibrant arts scene through its programme of performances, Creative Learning Programme for children and adults, and an Artist Development Programme to support local professional creatives.
In May 2025, the centre launched the Save Aberdeen Arts Centre campaign – a three-year fundraising drive to raise £660,000 to secure its future.
Despite unwillingness from Aberdeen City Council to ensure the venue’s survival, Castlegate Arts has vowed to fight on, gaining praise for what supporter Councillor Grant called their “slick, smart, positive, inspiring, non-political’ fundraising campaign. This campaign is currently just £6.5k away from reaching £100k in donations.
Individuals and potential corporate sponsors can continue to donate via https://www.aberdeenartscentre.com/save-aberdeen-arts-centre.
