An exclusive evening with Damian Barr at 1599 at the Royal College

On Friday 25th October 2026, 1599 at the Royal College will welcome book lovers from across Scotland for a very special literary event as award-winning author, broadcaster and journalist Damian Barr takes to the stage in conversation with acclaimed arts writer and broadcaster Nicola Meighan.

Hosted within the stunning surroundings of our historic Glasgow venue, the event celebrates the paperback launch of Damian's critically acclaimed novel, The Two Roberts, with attendees receiving access to the book a full week before its official release on 8 October.

For fans of contemporary Scottish writing, this is a rare opportunity to hear directly from one of the country's most celebrated literary voices in an intimate and inspiring setting.

A night for book lovers

Set within the elegant halls of 1599 at the Royal College, guests are invited to arrive from 6.00pm, enjoy a drink from the bar, and soak up the atmosphere before the conversation begins at 7.00pm.

As Damian Barr's only Glasgow appearance for the paperback launch of The Two Roberts, the evening promises fascinating discussion, personal insights and behind-the-scenes stories about the novel that has captured the attention of readers and critics alike.

Following the conversation, guests will have the chance to take part in an audience Q&A and meet Damian during a book signing session.

About The Two Roberts

Inspired by a remarkable true story, The Two Roberts follows the lives of Scottish artists Robert MacBryde and Robert Colquhoun.

Beginning at Glasgow School of Art in 1933, the novel traces their journey from artistic ambition and creative partnership to the vibrant cultural landscape of wartime Soho. A moving story of love, art, identity and resilience, the novel shines a light on two influential but often overlooked figures in Scottish cultural history.

The book has received widespread acclaim and was shortlisted for the Nero Book Award for Fiction, the Edward Stanford Travel Writing Award for Fiction, and the Winston Graham Prize for Historical Fiction.

Praise for the novel includes:

"Crackles with creative rebellion." - Douglas Stuart

"Brilliantly written, poignant and powerful. This is Damian Barr's chef-d'oeuvre." - Ian Rankin

"We need love stories like these. The Two Roberts take up residence in your heart. Utterly absorbing." - Jackie Kay

Meet the speakers

What guests can expect

The evening will feature:

• An engaging conversation between Damian Barr and Nicola Meighan
• A live recording of the A Kick Up The Arts podcast
• Audience Q&A
• Book signing opportunity
• Early access to the paperback edition of The Two Roberts
• A full bar with drinks available to purchase
• The Bookmonger pop-up bookshop featuring Damian's back catalogue, curated reading recommendations and exclusive merchandise

An evening in one of Glasgow's most iconic venues

At 1599 at the Royal College, we are proud to host a diverse programme of events that bring people together through culture, learning and shared experiences. This special literary evening is a wonderful opportunity to experience an acclaimed author, celebrate Scottish storytelling and enjoy an unforgettable night in the heart of Glasgow.

Whether you're already a fan of Damian Barr's work or discovering it for the first time, this promises to be an evening filled with fascinating conversation, inspiration and a shared love of books.

Doors Open: 6.00pm 

Event Starts: 7.00pm 

Venue: 1599 at the Royal College, Glasgow 

Tickets: Buy Tickets Here

We look forward to welcoming you for this exceptional literary event.