Kristofferson Edinburgh 2019

2 min read

Patricia McCarter

Kris Kristofferson and the Strangers performed in Edinburgh on 18 June 2019 at the Usher Hall

Patricia is one of the fans who braved the (important) Save the Planet protesters who took to the narrow streets and made her way to the venue.

Patricia thoroughly enjoyed the gig – She shared these anecodotes.

It was a truly memorable moment, when, they began a song, and there was a bit of a mix-up…..Kris laughed and turned to Scott and said, “I don’t know what the hells going on.” – Scott laughingly replied, “Neither do I!”. They pretty quickly regrouped and were back on track.
When Kris reached into the back of his jeans and brought out a red handkerchief to gently blow his nose and wipe his face, my first thought was I want that handkerchief….snot’n’ all…………
It was a bit concerning at the end when he stopped to shake hands, as he had to lean over pretty far. His son, Kris – a steward and Scott were immediately there to support him. A wonderful evening, just wonderful.

Usher Hall Edinburgh

Andrew Usher

On 23 June 1896, it was announced that Andrew Usher had gifted £100,000 to The City of Edinburgh to provide a City Hall, to be used for concerts. The Scotsman the following day read;

Andrew Usher died before his dream came true.

‘The necessity for a great hall in Edinburgh under city management has been pressed upon the attention of the public for many years.’
The Scotsman

State Visit 1911

King George and Queen Mary lay two memorial stones. A lead casket with the coins of the realm, City Chamberlain’s accounts, a copy of The Scotsman and Edinburgh Evening News, a copy of Andrew Usher’s deed of gift and other items were placed in the foundation stone.

Usher Hall Opens

‘It is not too much to say that those present, who saw the hall for the first time, were greatly struck with its dignified proportions, its open and airy aspect, and the character of its decorative detail’.
The Scotsman (7 March 1914)

The hall opened by Andrew Usher’s widow on 16 March 1914.

One of the Best

Usher Hall’s acoustics make it one of the best concert halls in Europe and Edinburgh’s main venue for the Edinburgh International Festival since 1947.