For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to writer Alison Irvine to talk about her fascinating and insightful new book about Glasgow's famous Barrowland Ballroom. To give its full title, the book is called Barrowland: The Inside Story of Glasgow’s Beloved Ballroom and it's published by Luath Press.
Alison explains that the book's origins are in a previous publication, and the importance of her regular collaborators Chris Leslie and Mitch Miller - all part of the artist collective Recollective - to this project.
She then talks about the process of gathering interviews, research, the two part structure of the book, the symbiotic relationship between the ballroom and the Barra's market, and getting involved as a member of staff.
The two then discuss, and reminisce about, their own personal Barrowland memories, key moments in its history, and try to put into context what it is that makes this venue the legendary place it is.
Barrowland the book is a brilliant read, one which looks beyond the music (although there is plenty of that) to the people as well as the place and gives an overview of this most iconic venue. It was such a privilege to be able to talk in-depth with Alison about it. We like to think it's an essential listen.
Full details, and all the ways to listen, are over at scotswhayhae.com