An Important Issue for Alexander McCall Smith

Alexander McCall Smith is tirelessly active on behalf of his favorite charities, and as the patron of the Alliance for Rabies Control, he recently made a special trip to Tanzania to raise awareness for the cause. Please watch this important video to find out how rabies is affecting countries in Africa and what you can do to help!

The No. 1 Ladies' Opera House

Alexander McCall Smith has long taken an interest in the musical scene in Botswana. On each of his regular visits to Botswana he has sponsored a concert to coincide with the visit, and this has usually featured strongly local singers. He has also supported musical training programs, and last year--in collaboration with David Slater, a well-known music teacher and performer in Gaborone--he established a tiny opera house.

The No. 1 Ladies' Opera House is accommodated in an old garage converted for the purpose. During the day it is a restaurant, serving breakfast and lunch at tables set out under shady trees on the terrace. It has a tiny white van and an enthusiastic staff. And if you're visiting to Botswana this is one spot you won't want to miss!

Read Alexander McCall Smith's article about how the opera house was opened.

Watch a video clip about the opera house.

An April Fools' Evening

Get ready for the Really Terrible Orchestra's first U.S. appearance! It's true--the orchestra founded by Alexander McCall Smith is coming to New York Wednesday, April 1, 2009, for a single performance as part of New York Tartan Week. Audience members will be treated to a range of musical delights from classic favorites to new works, a bagpipe serenade, and the premier of a musical saw concerto. It's an event not to be missed!

Click here to download the brochure with complete event details and ticket information.

A New Series Begins

Alexander McCall Smith has embarked on an ambitious new project! The Telegraph (UK) is currently serializing his novel Corduroy Mansions, running in online installments (a new one every weekday) now through February 13, 2009.

Click here to visit the Telegraph feature site and follow the daily adventures of Alexander McCall Smith's latest cast of characters! Readers can also download audio podcasts of the series, leave plot suggestions, and enter a competition to write their own serial online novel.

Read the New York Times Paper Cuts blog post discussing the new online novel.

Fun No. 1 Film Facts

- The film's producers have signed a 10 year lease for the area at the foot of Kgale Hill, Gaborone, where they have built the fictional shopping center where Precious Ramotswe opens her storefront detective agency.

- This is the first motion picture filmed entirely in Botswana.

- 10ft electrified fences surrounded most sets to protect cast and crew from animal attack.

(content © IMDb.com)

Click here for more information about the movie and to view photographs from the set.