If you have ever walked down the High Street in Edinburgh, you will probably have passed the "Clarinda" cafe. If so, have you ever wondered just who Clarinda was? (Robert Burns devotees will undoubtedly know)
Clarinda was in fact Nancy McLehose, a Glasgow born lady who lived most of her life in the capital, and has rested since 1841 in a grave in Canongate Cemetery, marked by a rather grand plaque in her memory.
And her fame is totally due to a four year uncomsumated affair with Scotland's national bard, Robert Burns, that gave rise to the exchange of the Clarinda and Sylvander letters and inspired Burns to write the wonderful love song "Ae Fond Kiss"
And now in 2008, the 250th anniversary of Nancy's birth, the lady is returning to Edinburgh when "Clarinda", a new Scottish musical play opens at the Netherbow Theatre, part of the Scottish Storytelling Centre in John Knox House on the High Strteet, close to Nancy's final resting place.
The show will enjoy its worldwide premiere on Burns night 25th January 2008, running until 2 February before touring Glasgow, Cumbernauld, St Andrews and Aberdeen. In Glasgow it will play St Andrews In The Square, a former church where Nancy married in 1776.
If it interests you and would like further information or to hear samples of the music go to
Clarinda - The Musical