A reception at the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh tonight (27 September) sees Highland 2007, the year Scotland celebrates Highland culture, continue to roll out its Programme of events for next year.

With only 96 days to the start of this special year for the Highlands and Scotland guests will be treated to a flavour of Highland culture.  Feis Rois, Norrie MacIver and Fiona Mackenzie will entertain with music and songs from the Highlands and Islands.

The evening will also feature an excerpt from The Sundowe, the winner of The Highland Quest.  The Highland Quest involved an eighteen month search for a new musical that would appeal to a contemporary Scottish audience. Attracting entries from across the world, The Sundowe was victorious and will be the opening show for the newly built second theatre at Eden Court, Inverness, next September before embarking on a tour of the Highlands.

Alison Magee, chair of Highland 2007, said: “This reception will provide an opportunity for Highland 2007 partners and major event organisers to enjoy a taster of the year ahead.  The calendar of events, now available, demonstrates the wealth of events taking place throughout 2007 spanning all six strands of culture: arts, heritage, language, sport, science and environment.  The programme offers something for everyone wishing to join in the celebrations of Highland culture and highlights what a great place the Highlands and Islands are to live and to visit.”

Patricia Ferguson, Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport, said: “Highland 2007 is an excellent opportunity to encourage communities to come together and celebrate their rich cultural heritage.

“The diverse programme that has been planned is very exciting and today’s event is a great opportunity to get a feel for what is in store during Scotland’s year of Highland culture.”

Events are being added to the programme on an ongoing basis, check the website for an up to date listing www.highland2007.com