Join award‑winning poet and playwright Hannah Lavery and Edinburgh Makar Michael Pedersen for a rich conversation about friendship, connection and the communities that shape us.

Hannah Lavery, former Edinburgh Makar and Associate Artist with the National Theatre of Scotland, is known for her incisive, socially engaged work across poetry and theatre. Her acclaimed collections Blood Salt Spring and Unwritten Woman have established her as a vital voice exploring identity, care and belonging, with a new collection, Everything, Everyday, forthcoming in 2026.

Michael Pedersen is a prize‑winning poet, author and current Edinburgh Makar. His poetry collection The Cat Prince won Best Poetry at the Books Are My Bag Readers Awards, while his memoir Boy Friends was a Sunday Times Critics’ Choice. His debut novel Muckle Flugga has been praised as “garishly alive” and “extraordinary”.

Together, they reflect on creativity, relationships and the ties that hold us in life, in art and in community.

This event is presented in partnership with Coastal Community Connections, a local charity dedicated to turning loneliness and isolation into connection.

Hannah and Michael will be available for a (time-limited) book signing after the event.

Both books will be available to purchase at the event, during Fringe by the Sea (31st July-9thAugust) through Night Owl Books.

All ages are welcome. Under 16s must be accompanied by an over 18.

This is a seated event (unreserved).

The Famous Grouse Lodge stage venue is wheelchair accessible. If you require further information on accessibility please visit our Accessibility Guide or contact info@fringebythesea.com.

TICKETS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE