The skies and stones align, then shift out of phase. The Sun rises to its highest point and begins to lower with a long sigh. Our planet strays, stretching its orbit far from the Sun, before allowing itself to be called back towards home. 

As you bask in our delightfully wild Scottish summer, the days stretching on like eternities, you might not even notice the sunlight slowly start to slip away. First by just a few seconds each day, then ever more rapidly as we sprint towards the equinox and the long nights beyond.

Soon it will be time for the stars to return.

Samhuinn Fire Festival is Summer’s blazing finale and the onset of Winter’s inescapable reign. It is the emergence of the Cailleach, the mysterious wild woman who shapes the landscape and brings chaos and order, storms and snow. 

We are now accepting nominations (including self-nominations) for the roles of our Samhuinn Court: the Cailleach and the Kings of Summer and Winter. 

Timeline

21st July: Deadline for Cailleach nominations (including self-nominations)

29th-30th July: Cailleach interviews

4th August: Deadline for Kings nominations (including self-nominations)

12th August: King interviews

Some Practical Notes

We welcome applications from people of all genders, physical abilities, ages, races and socio-economic statuses: the potential to embody the role is the essential quality we seek. You do not have to fit an image or profile of previous role holders. Please do not let your availability limit you from applying; we understand that life happens and will endeavour to find an alternative interview time.

As ever, we welcome joint applications for both Summer and Winter Kings, or solo applications for either role. We would, however, prefer for our Cailleach applicants to be solo applicants.

This year’s celebration may take place in a space different to previous years and the format is yet to be confirmed. All those applying will need to remain open to adjusting their vision as the performance evolves.

Selection Process

The Board and Blues will form a panel, drawing up a shortlist of candidates for each role. Those shortlisted for will be invited to meet the panel for a brief interview. Our new Cailleach will be notified and will then join the Kings’ selection panel, assisting with the meetings for those shortlisted for the roles of Summer King and Winter King. The final decision on all roles will be announced to the membership soon after, allowing enough time for unsuccessful applicants to put together Group Organiser applications if they so wish.

Notes on Community Nomination

Members of BFS may nominate a fellow member, or members, for any role. If you wish to nominate someone who you believe could really embody the role, please send their name to blues@beltane.org. The member(s) will then be informed of the nomination, and invited to consider whether they wish to proceed in trying out for the role.

Guidance on Self-Nomination

If you are feeling called to one of our deities, send an email to blues@beltane.org with the following information:

– your name

– contact details

– the role you wish to be considered for (Cailleach, Summer King, or Winter King)

– your availability across the Samhuinn period (Mid July – Mid November)

Please also include up to 500 words in support of your application, such as how you envision your chosen role, how you feel connected to them or any part of the performance, or any narrative ideas you may have. 

If you have any questions, get in touch with blues@beltane.org.

~Your Blues