Latest news with #KathyMurdoch


The Independent
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
Singer, 11, launches Busk Stop for musicians to perform in shopping centre
A young singer has launched Glasgow's first 'Busk Stop' inside a shopping centre in an effort to provide performers with a dedicated spot indoors. It was launched by 11-year-old Rachel Ronnie at Buchanan Galleries in the city centre, following requests from other buskers wanting to perform in Glasgow. It gives artists a designated spot to use in a place that is safe and serves as a focal point due to the high footfall in the shopping centre. Following Rachel's performance on Monday, the Busk Stop will be available for performers to use over the summer and beyond. Performances are to take place on a rotating schedule, offering shoppers a wide range of artists. Kathy Murdoch, centre director at Buchanan Galleries, said: 'It's exciting to introduce a dedicated, free-to-use busking spot specially designed for young performers in Glasgow. 'This new space, in front of our iconic flower wall, provides a fantastic platform for emerging local singers to share their talent with the public, offering them the chance to perform in a safe and supportive environment where they can gain valuable experience and confidence. 'As well as help nurture the next generation of musical talent in our community, it also enhances the atmosphere for everyone who visits Buchanan Galleries, adding a lively and authentic musical experience for our guests. 'We were honoured to officially launch our 'Busk Stop' with an incredible performance by Rachel Ronnie, who set the tone perfectly for what we hope will be many inspiring moments to come.' Rachel's mother Karen Blackwood said: 'Rachel's singing career started as a toddler. She could sing before she could talk and being brought up in a musical household she's thrived through the years. 'Busking since the age of five, she's found her calling in life. 'Singing is all she ever dreams about and one day she hopes she can entertain folk for a career. 'Rachel was thrilled to be asked to open the 'Busk Stop' at Buchanan Galleries since Glasgow is her busking home. The people of Glasgow really do make Glasgow the place to busk.'


Scotsman
28-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Rachel Ronnie (11) to take centre stage with the launch of a ‘Busk Stop' at Buchanan Galleries
Aspiring young buskers are invited to step into the spotlight and perform to hundreds of shoppers this summer in a safe and welcoming indoor space Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... This summer, musicians can take centre stage at Buchanan Galleries as the Glasgow shopping centre launches a 'Busk Stop' – allowing young buskers to perform inside the centre at a dedicated busking area for the very first time. Launching on Monday, June 30, Buchanan Galleries will be shining a spotlight on the region's young artists and performers, where they will be given the chance to perform in a safe space to a walk-by audience. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Buchanan Galleries' 'Busk Stop' has been specially created for young local singers and musicians to perform live at the centre, bringing a vibrant atmosphere to guests. 11-year-old Glasgow singer, Rachel Ronnie will officially launch the 'Busk Stop' with the first performance on Monday, June 30 at 12pm – 1pm. Rachel Ronnie The 'Busk Stop' will be located by the flower wall at Buchanan Galleries and will serve as a centrepiece for aspiring young artists to engage with visitors, entertain, and showcase their talent during the summer holidays. Following the launch event, performances will be on a rotation schedule to ensure fresh entertainment for all to enjoy. The centre is calling for young artists across the region to register to perform at its 'Busk Stop' free of charge. Performers will be able to reserve hour slots throughout the summer holidays and is available to both emerging and seasoned young artists. Musicians interested in performing at the 'Busk Stop' at Buchanan Galleries can register their interest via Buchanan Galleries' website: Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Kathy Murdoch, Centre Director at Buchanan Galleries, said: 'We're incredibly excited to launch our 'Busk Stop' with Rachel Ronnie's performance. At just 11 years old, Rachel represents the talent, passion, and creativity we want to spotlight throughout the summer. Buchanan Galleries 'Glasgow already has a buzzing busking scene, and we're proud to be able to provide a platform that supports the next generation of artists. The launch of our 'Busk Stop' not only provides a new layer of entertainment for our guests but also gives young local artists a platform to perform, develop their confidence, and share their talents, in a safe, welcoming and vibrant space, come rain or shine.'


Glasgow Times
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
Buchanan Galleries in Glasgow launches new 'busk stop'
Buchanan Galleries is encouraging young buskers to take to the stage at the new indoor busking area this summer. This gives performers a chance to showcase their talent in a safe and welcoming environment. Rachel Ronnie will perform at the launch (Image: Supplied) The busk stop will be officially launched on June 30 by 11-year-old Glaswegian singer, Rachel Ronnie, with the first performance set to take place from 12pm to 1pm. Kathy Murdoch, centre director at Buchanan Galleries, said: "We're incredibly excited to launch our 'busk stop' with Rachel Ronnie's performance. Read more: Rangers CEO Patrick Stewart among seven elected to SPFL board Have you been? Top airline reveals Glasgow's favourite summer destinations What's in a seafood stick? Vici's guide to a tasty, healthier snack "At just 11 years old, Rachel represents the talent, passion, and creativity we want to spotlight throughout the summer. "Glasgow already has a buzzing busking scene, and we're proud to be able to provide a platform that supports the next generation of artists. Buchanan Galleries (Image: Supplied) "The launch of our 'Busk Stop' not only provides a new layer of entertainment for our guests but also gives young local artists a platform to perform, develop their confidence, and share their talents, in a safe, welcoming and vibrant space, come rain or shine." The busk stop will be open to young artists from across the region to register to perform at its 'Busk Stop' free of charge at Aspiring buskers can reserve hour-long slots throughout the summer holidays. This initiative is open to both emerging and seasoned young artists. Performances will be on a rotation schedule to provide fresh entertainment for the shoppers.


Glasgow Times
09-06-2025
- Health
- Glasgow Times
Buchanan Galleries in Glasgow highlight men's mental health
Buchanan Galleries has partnered with five charities and health organisations to promote men's physical and mental wellbeing as part of Men's Health Week, running from June 9 to 15. Each organisation will take over a dedicated space beneath the flower wall outside John Lewis & Partners for a day, offering information, support, and a chance to start important conversations. Read more: 'Fantastic initiative': Scheme bringing comfort to hospital patients with dementia (Image: Supplied) Kathy Murdoch, centre director at Buchanan Galleries, said: "It's important to us to serve our community, not only as a shopping centre, but as a community hub in the centre of Glasgow. "We aim to create an accessible, supportive space for men, who may not typically seek health advice or services, and bring these opportunities directly to them in a familiar, everyday setting. "We know that taking that first step can often be the hardest, so by offering visibility and access to these brilliant charities and organisations in a relaxed environment, we hope to make it easier for men to start important conversations about their health and wellbeing. "It's a small but meaningful way we can help reduce stigma and encourage more positive, proactive approaches to men's health in our community." Each charity will be present at the centre from 10am to 4pm. On Monday, June 9, MindTheMen, a suicide prevention and mental health support group, will launch the week. The next day will see MENSELF+ introduce its MOT 4 MEN health check programme. (Image: Supplied) Jim Malcomson, programme coordinator at MENSELF+, said: "We're thrilled to be bringing our MOT 4 MEN programme to guests at Buchanan Galleries. "The service is a unique health initiative that encourages men to think about their wellbeing like they would their car - through regular check-ups and maintenance. 'By creating a relaxed, non-medical environment with a bit of humour, the programme breaks down barriers and helps men take positive, proactive steps toward better physical and mental health.' On Wednesday, June 11, Men Matter Scotland will share its work around peer support and suicide prevention. Martin Melly, operations manager at Men Matter Scotland, said: "Men Matter Scotland is looking forward to coming to Buchanan Galleries and taking part in this initiative. "We aim to improve men's mental health and wellbeing through peer-to-peer support so getting the opportunity to raise awareness amongst the local population in Glasgow of our service is vital." Thursday, June 12, will see the Terrence Higgins Trust offering guidance on sexual health and HIV support. Read more: Hundreds take on Glasgow's giant Kylie Minogue-themed game Finally, the week will conclude on June 15, with Prostate Scotland raising awareness about prostate health. Alison Wright, chief executive of Prostate Scotland, said: "We're proud to be taking part in this week of action to help shine a light on men's health. "Too often, men put off speaking up about health concerns - especially when it comes to prostate issues. "By bringing our information and support directly into a busy public space like Buchanan Galleries, we hope to make it that bit easier for men to get informed, ask questions, and feel more confident about taking charge of their health."


Glasgow Times
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
Giant Kylie Minogue buzz wire game coming to Glasgow
The free, one-day-only buzz wire game will be available at Buchanan Galleries on Friday, June 6, and is inspired by Kylie Minogue's Tension Tour, which arrives in Glasgow on the same day. Kathy Murdoch, centre director at Buchanan Galleries, said: "We're spinning around with excitement to welcome Kylie Minogue back to Glasgow and marking the occasion with our free giant wire buzzer game – guaranteed to get hearts racing and pulses rising. "We love to enhance our visitors' experiences – whether they're shopping for an event, the next season's must-haves, or coming simply to soak up the atmosphere. "Whether you're a lifelong Kylie lover or just want to feel the tension, don't miss your chance to test your nerve, feel the pressure, and take the challenge in our one-day-only, fun game." (Image: Supplied) Read more: Kylie Minogue fans offered 'fun' hotel package ahead of Glasgow gig Located on the ground floor near the Flower Wall by John Lewis, the challenge gives contestants three chances to complete the game without setting off the buzzer. Those who succeed will be in with a chance of winning Kylie-themed prizes, including tour T-shirts, tote bags, necklaces, caps, and Tension vinyl records. The event is open to visitors and fans of all ages, with prizes available while stocks last.