Scottish Performing Arts Classic on June 6-7 keeps Gaelic culture alive

Retired Canadian Army Maj. Bruce W MacDonald is aware that Gaelic words can be difficult to pronounce. But he has a solution.

“Gaelic is not something you want to take on without being drunk,” he said.

MacDonald serves on the boards of the Robert Burns Society of Charleston and the Clan Donald Trust, a global organization dedicated to preserving Gaelic culture. Both organizations share a focus on celebrating Scottish culture — a broad umbrella encompassing Gaelic culture, with its unique Highland language and traditions. It’s a mission MacDonald feels strongly about. Five years ago, the groups organized a new tradition in Charleston, the Scottish Performing Arts Classic at Piccolo Spoleto.

According to MacDonald, the Clan Donald Trust for the Gaelic Performing Arts is a major force in