She used to be one of TV's top cops - now Lanarkshire actress Blythe Duff is going on a different beat; with a jazz orchestra.
The former Taggart star, who grew up in East Kilbride and then moved to live in the Burnside area of Rutherglen, will be the narrator for Tales of the Tribe, a new show by the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra that will go on tour next month.
The show will feature music and newly written poetry by four of Scotland’s foremost poets, Meg Bateman, Christine De Luca, Peter MacKay, and Tom Pow, along with Blythe's narration.
Top traditional musicians Phil Cunningham, Julie Fowlis, Megan Henderson, and Michael McGoldrick will also join a soundtrack composed by Tommy Smith, the SNJO's orchestra director.
Saxophonist Tommy told Lanarkshire Live : "Scotland’s traditions are full of fascinating stories that capture the imaginations of people of all ages.
"I wanted to present these tales in a way that made strong use of Scotland’s musical heritage as well as the narratives to present the characters and creatures realistically while appealing to families and lovers of traditional music and big band jazz alike.
"The traditional musicians we’re working with are among the leaders in their field.
"They are incredibly skilful, and we’ll be highlighting their skills and spontaneity on accordion, whistle, fiddle, flute and more to create a natural bond between traditional music and jazz."
Julie Fowlis previously worked with Tommy Smith on the soundtrack to Pixar mega hit, Brave.
She told us : "I’ve always had a fascination for creatures of the otherworld. These characters and belief systems reveal a lot about our past and those who have gone before.
"The Gaelic songs concerned with the supernatural so often have outstanding melodies and stories, and so it’s no wonder they have lasted the test of time.
"It’s an absolute pleasure to create a programme of music with Tommy, the SNJO, Blythe and my old friends Phil, Mike and Megan and I’m really excited to bring this project to the stage."
Tales of the Tribe tours to Glasgow Royal Concert Hall on May 12, Aberdeen Music Hall on May 13 and the Queen’s Hall in Edinburgh on May 14.
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