Nicola Sturgeon, the former First Minister of Scotland, is set to make her comedy debut at the Glasgow Comedy Festival on Saturday, appearing alongside renowned crime author Val McDermid at the King’s Theatre. This event, titled “Books and Banter,” comes shortly after police confirmed they would take no further action against Sturgeon in their long-running investigation into the financial activities of the Scottish National Party (SNP), known as Operation Branchform.

The performance will be an interactive session where Sturgeon and McDermid, who have been friends for years, will engage in discussions about their mutual love of literature. They will share insights on books that have profoundly influenced them, discussing titles they have cherished as well as those they have strongly disliked. Accompanying them will be comedian Ashley Storrie, the daughter of Sturgeon’s late friend Janey Godley, along with novelist Christopher Brookmyre. The event is expected to draw a significant crowd, with approximately 1,785 seats available, though fewer than 150 tickets remain for the gallery.

Sturgeon expressed feelings of relief and vindication following the announcement regarding the investigation, stating, “I think it won’t surprise anybody to hear me say that has not been an easy experience. So to reach this point today is obviously something I am relieved about.” This comment came as she stepped outside her Glasgow home, underscoring the toll the investigation had taken on her personally and professionally. She added that she had “done nothing wrong” and emphasized the lack of evidence against her.

In a further twist of events, her estranged husband, Peter Murrell, the former chief executive of the SNP, appeared in court on the same day as Sturgeon’s announcement. He faces charges of embezzlement related to the party’s finances, which adds a layer of complexity to the unfolding narrative surrounding Sturgeon and the SNP.

While Sturgeon has confirmed that she will not seek re-election in the next Scottish Parliament elections scheduled for 2026, current First Minister John Swinney remarked on the importance of her continued campaigning efforts for the party. Just this week, Sturgeon contributed to Mhairi Hunter’s electoral success in a by-election for Glasgow City Council, marking her ongoing involvement in politics despite her announcement of stepping back.

In addition to her comedy venture, Sturgeon revealed that her political memoir, titled “Frankly,” is set for publication in August, with promotional activities anticipated to generate significant media attention. The former First Minister is gearing up for a busy period ahead, with more stage shows and high-profile appearances expected in the coming months.

The event at the King’s Theatre promises to provide an entertaining evening filled with laughter and engaging conversations, while also marking a poignant moment in Sturgeon’s life as she navigates her future beyond the political arena.

Source: Noah Wire Services