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This summer a new gallery will present a rich picture of Scotland’s recent history, with a helping hand from Harry Potter, Lulu and Ewan McGregor.  Scotland: A Changing Nation will feature iconic objects from famous Scots, including Chinese and Latin editions of Harry Potter signed by JK Rowling, Lulu’s costume worn while performing with Take That  and Ewan McGregor’s signed Trainspotting script.  Franz Ferdinand’s Mercury Music Prize and original notes typed by Ian Rankin for his novel, The Falls, are also amongst the many treasures which will go on display when the new permanent gallery opens at the National Museum of Scotland in July.  

Scotland: A Changing Nation presents a bold and innovative look at modern Scotland over the last century through objects, music and film.  Over 25 personal stories are interwoven into the gallery, including one from Scots singer Amy MacDonald who recounts her memories of holidays in Scotland.  Among the other items on display will be words and lyrics to the Proclaimers famous song, Letter to America; Moira Shearer’s ballet shoes; a helmet, gloves and shoes belonging to Dario Franchitti, winner of the 2007 Indianapolis 500, one of the world’s most significant motor races; and a notebook used by AJ Cronin to write his Dr Finlay stories for television. 

Scotland: A Changing Nation will enable visitors to explore how cultural, social, political and economic influences have impacted on people in Scotland from the First World War to the present day.  The gallery focuses on five central themes - war, emigration, industry, politics and entertainment - through which visitors will be able to discover how influences from government and industry to health and holidays defined our distinctive culture, humour and way of life.   The final part of the gallery, Scotland: Today and Tomorrow, will showcase Scotland’s achievements, ending on a note of celebration as Scotland continues to evolve.

Ends

For further information please contact:
Joanne Bell or Charlotte Rowland
T: 0131 470 3400/ 07739968371
E: joanne.bell@porternovelli.co.uk
     charlotte.rowland@porternovelli.co.uk

Notes to Editors

•    Scotland: A Changing Nation is part of the transformation of the National Museum of Scotland.  Part of the building closed in April this year for a period of three years, as a key phase of the £46.4million project. However more than half of the building – including Scotland: A Changing Nation - remains open, so that visitors can discover the collections, enjoy events and see special exhibitions throughout the refurbishment work 
•    The gallery is free and will open on level six of the National Museum of Scotland on 11 July 2008