SCOTLAND’S rich cultural scene was celebrated in style this week as the cream of the country’s talent in performing arts, literature and events gathered in Glasgow for the Sunday Herald’s third annual Culture Awards.

The event, in association with Edinburgh Napier University, was held at SWG3 and sponsored by EventScotland, part of VisitScotland’s event directorate, Rotunda Comedy Club and Cameron Presentations. It was supported by Blue Parrot and drinks reception sponsor, Rock Rose Gin.

As guests sat down they were treated to a stunning opening performance by up-and-coming folk singer Iona Fyfe then a dinner-time set from young saxophonist, Sam Irvine.

Broadcaster Bryan Burnett hosted the event and introduced guest speaker Dr Alistair Scott, director of Screen Academy Scotland, who welcomed guests on behalf of title partner, Edinburgh Napier University.

Edinburgh Napier University sponsored the Lifetime Achievement Award which went to actor director David Hayman, who accepted the award in person. It also sponsored the One to Watch category, which went to 404 Ink.

Alistair Scott said: “We believe it's important to have these awards which recognise and honour the amazing talent we have in Scottish culture today. The achievements of the winners and those shortlisted demonstrate real diversity and are an inspiration, not just for our students, but also for people across Scotland.”

EventScotland sponsored the Cultural Event of the Year categories that were split for the first time this year to recognise both national and international events. Paul Bush, VisitScotland’s director of events, said: “Congratulations to all the winners at this year’s Sunday Herald Culture Awards, including Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society and Wigtown Festival Company for the Cultural Event of the Year categories.”

The Best Performing Arts Venue category, sponsored by Cameron Presentations, went to the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Chris Cameron Jnr, operations manage,r said: “We thoroughly enjoyed another great night celebrating Scotland’s rich creative scene.”

In the Best Actor (screen) Film category, James McAvoy scooped the top prize while Peter Capaldi got the gong for Best Actor (screen) TV. Neve McIntosh was crowned Best Actor (theatre).

Best Musical Artist award was presented to Scottish Opera’s Catherine Backhouse.

The Biggest Contribution to Scottish Comedy award – new for 2018 – was introduced in response to industry demand. It was sponsored by Glasgow’s Rotunda Comedy Club and won by The Stand Comedy Club.

The awards also focused on dance across all genres with the Best Dance Performer award this year going to Hayley Earlam of Indepen-dance.

Meanwhile, the Judges Choice Award went to Social Bite and Unique Events for Sleep in the Park which raised over £3.6 million and is putting Scotland at the forefront of tackling homelessness on the international stage.

The ceremony drew to an emotional close when a special accolade for contribution to Scottish culture was awarded posthumously to Scott Hutchison of Frightened Rabbit. Scott’s brother and bandmate Grant Hutchison and Frightened Rabbit guitarist Andy Monaghan were present to receive the award on Scott’s behalf.

The Herald:

Highlights from the event are at: http://newsquestscotlandevents.com/events/sunday-herald-culture-awards/

For information on the 2019 awards, contact Hannah Docherty on 0141 302 6037.