On Monday 26 January, members of the university and local community were welcomed to the Ulster University Derry~Londonderry Campus for a special event to celebrate Burns Night were they enjoyed a showcase of theatre, poetry, song and dance.
The celebration, supported by The Department for the Economy, featured a special performance of ‘Not So Serious Burns’, delivered by Bready Ulster Scots and funded by The Ulster Scots Agency. The performance focused on the life and work of the national bard of the Scots and Ulster Scots, Robert Burns. The performance combined music and drama, poetry and song, Highland dancing and haggis as well as incorporated the Lallans language.
Other performances included music from the Ulster University Choir, Burns songs by PhD Researcher Grainne Milner McLoone and poetic responses to Burns by poet Niamh McNally.
From the 23 to 26 January 2026, The Colours of Culture Exhibition was on display in the Minor Hall, the photography exhibition showcased Highland and Irish dancers in locations across Northern Ireland.
Reflecting on the celebration, Professor Malachy Ó Néill, Ulster University Director of Regional Engagement said:
“We are delighted to host the Burns Night Celebration at Ulster University as part of our partnership commitment to the cultural and social life of our communities. This city and region is renowned for its cultural heritage and creativity and this was showcased in the celebration through song, dance, theatre, and visual artistry.”
Georgina Kee-McCarter, Bready Ulster Scots, said:
“It is great to be a part of the Burns Celebrations at Ulster University; we are delighted to be involved. To showcase Ulster-Scots culture as a vibrant and active part of local community is an important opportunity to highlight both its historical significance and its contemporary expression within academic and public life.”
