We Back Dundee as a City of Culture

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PEOPLE AND GROWING

Support Dundee

As an American who spent several weeks in Dundee, I was especially surprised by the city’s excellent institutions of higher education, the Dundee Rep, and the McManus. But the real hidden gem is the Dundee Contemporary Arts, where world-class art exhibits and independent films rival any one would find in a much larger city.

<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The citizens of Dundee are what make it such a vibrant city. They are open, friendly, and helpful, and seem to adapt easily to change. This approach to life is fully deserving of the City of Culture award.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It is a small city but there is always something to do
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Came to Dundee as a student in 1993 and decided to make it home - a small, friendly City with an abundance to do and entertain - from theatre at the Rep, to events for the whole family at the DCA and McManus Galleries. Whether your passion is for music, film, science, art, theatre or literature, there is something for everyone in this wonderful little city.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's so impressive. Scenery and Science!!
What a great place to learn, work and meet incredible people!
I've loved my time here and I can't wait to see what the city will look like in 10 years time.....
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> the people are rapidly believing in both themselves and the City. The future is very promising as we create the 'New Dundee' for our children and their children. Old meets Modern meets Old ans we rebuild Dundee. Also sunniest and driest place in Scotland.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I think modesty is a recurring attitude shared amongst Dundonians.
Not used to being the centre of attention, Dundee is full of talent yet so modest in sentiment, both past and present.
The music scene, science, creative arts and the diversity of mixed cultures make Dundee an inspiring place in which to live and bring up children.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a really wonderful wee city with a brilliant creative community. Although I left Dundee almost a year ago now, I miss it dearly- and it just amazes me to see how much has changed in the past year. There's so much going on, and the people who live in Dundee are passionate about making it a great place to live and to stay. This city has so much potential- and the people to see that potential being fulfilled.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love the fact that there's a real feeling of pride growing amongst us Dundonians. Maybe it's because we are seeing so much investment in the in the City. The waterfront is really creating a buzz and it's gaining momentum. The new swimming as well as some new hotels and restaurants opening are really making it somewhere exciting to live!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee, for me, has always been a source of inspiration in terms of culture and creativity.
It always surprises me that; no matter where you are in the world, you'll always meet someone who been to, or knows someone from here.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is an amazing city, the location is like no other. The fact that you can be in the city centre one minute and 'in the country' the next is unique. The people are warm and friendly and there is a great sense of community wherever you are in the city!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> There is a wonderful very early painting hanging in Ninewells Hospital of a Dundee doctor - Dr David Kinloch (1560 - 1617) Written on a document he is holding are the words - "Life is short, Art is long, Opportunity is elusive, Experiment is dangerous, Judgement is difficult." How true!!
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<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Every yeah Dundee's DCA holds a 4 day horror-fest called Dundead (and one day Dundead events all year around) which is where they show double-bills of old and new horror movies. That's how I became the horror movie buff I am today!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I never been there but I will be.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> A city full of culture and history. From the industrial revolution to more recent times Dundee has played a huge role in the UKs history.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The warmth and friendly people who are natural and kind. Live music scene, small independant retailers, vintage clothes shops, top quality hairy stylists, the history of the City which you can enjoy as you stroll throught the City Centre, the fact that its a City which is sourrounded by Sea, Sand and Country side.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The city has grown beyond the small university town it was just a couple of decades ago. The diversity and inclusiveness as well as the industry that has expanded Dundee into a city is just amazing and makes me proud of my Alma Mater.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee sunsets are its secret, reflecting off the the river, within the sky and within the summer air enjoyed over a glass of wine enjoying friends company after a busy week in the beer garden at DCA or Dukes Corner or in your own garden. Dundee's a beautiful city with so much to offer but so often overlooked. Time to celebrate this wonderful place!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Its integrated creative scene, Dundee supports its local makers and has a driven attitude towards reaching an international level of success. The work of Vanilla Ink inspires me and makes me proud to be part of the creative Dundee network.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee 's friendly locals, its beautiful setting on the Tay, its stunning architecture, sunshine and outstanding art school all drew me to the city which I now call home. The passion and talent of Dundee's creative community and the various organisations that support it, with my particular favorite being Vanilla Ink Studios, have continued to surprise me, with their commitment and determination, inspiring and motiving me in my own practice. Dundee creatives are putting this great city on the map, and well, you may be surprised, but I'm not! :)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Take a walk through Balgay Park on a frosty winter night. Wind your way up through the trees till the heavens open up above you. The observatory is there but you won't need it; the stars are close enough to touch.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Gardyne Theatre is a gem of a place to watch and listen to live theatre and music performances.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The city is full of diversity. I was a student there, and there is an ingrained culture and inherent creative spirit of learning which really makes it a place you love.

The DCA is a hub of film and creativity. The local pubs and restaurants build up the atmosphere. The history of comic books and journalism. The old factories and the production of Jute.

It's a city that will stay with you long after you leave.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Long history of Dundee. Battle &amp; Casstle at mid age.At modern age, industrial revolution- jute jam and journalism,antarctic expedition, research ( life science, gaming, surgical &amp; anaesthetic instruments)-- in a sentence- a city of discovery , a city of innovation. At present Dundee is a member of best 21 itellectual communities in this world.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> As a student at the University of Dundee I was really impressed by the strong link the City has with her students. The vibrant and diverse social scene has really provided me with an excellent student experience. From Dundee you are well placed to visit many exciting parts of Scotland but still return to your "home" city in a matter of hours. I am proud to have been a part of the city's expansion over the past 5 years.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The beauty of broughty ferry, my home. I had wedding photos taken on the waterfront looking out to Dundee on one of the most beautiful days this summer. A fantastic memory in photos
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> As a foreigner working in Dundee I am most touched by Dundonians' intrinsic desire to improve their communities by working together.
The Dundee Dance Partnership is an example of this and a model to follow in other areas.
Dundee promotes social and cultural exchanges in every corner of the city, all in a humorous and light-hearted way but without trivialising the impact of such a conversation.
Dundee symbolises the slogan "working together for an equal and better future", embracing the challenges that such a lofty cause might entail.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee city is Scotlands best kept secret . With stunning backdrop, vantage points &amp; fantastic history.
We should have a looking up day with that much architecture to feed the soul.
Its no wonder Dundee isone of the top student choices. With top clubs and Djs and pubs with character and a thriving Celtic Culture in abundance. if you want to visit a real Scottish city come to Dundee
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The views are superb from everywhere especially from the top of Ninewells Avenue !
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The building of a pioneering ultra-Low energy, autonomous studio in the Botanic Gardens of Dundee, by Masters Architecture students at Dundee University.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a vibrant and multi-cultured city. I love the areas around the west end of Dundee and the University. Beautiful gardens, quaint shops,lovely coffee shops, fantastic restaurants, theaters and exciting bars.

Dundee is an ever changing city, every time I go back to visit there are improvements and something new. There are always fantastic events going on. It is also a city rich in history, displayed at wonderful museums and easy to spot in the streets.

There really is something for everyone in Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Daffoidils every where , beautiful.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> it's ability to host cultural events at select locations. its rich young artists community, headed by the young artists themelves.
the scottish dance theatre and rep productions. the fact its under the radar for many outside scotland
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has been a thriving cultural hub for decades if not centuries. With the refurbishment of the McManus Galleries the Dundee story has been well expressed and both reflected and built upon. The creation of the V&amp;A and the building of a new railway station by 2017 will allow Dundee to be more easily shared with the rest of the UK and the city of culture status would further evidence that we as a city have an exciting future ahead.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The friendliness of the people, the beauty of the silvery tay, the law hill, The art, The Art School, Rep and DCA, The beauty of the city, The passion and pride, the history, Jute, Jam and journalism (The Beano, The Dandy, The Broons and Oor Willie!), The invention and discovery and coming over the bridges into Bonnie Dundee, what a view! My favourite thing about Dundee though is the unique setting and relationship of it's two football clubs. I could say so much more and so will this city!!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The incredible welcoming I received by all sort of organisations and people during the period of my PhD studies and which made my stay in Dundee an unforgettable time.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Sunday morning sport for the city's kids - rugby, football, hockey et al. Parents really putting in the early morning effort to help kids realise their potential.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> New Years Eve at the Balgay Bar: Live folk music and super friendly atmosphere in the only pub in the world where people say hello when you walk in. At the bells its straight into Auld Lang Syne and 200 old men descending on you for a handshake and a kiss! Classic!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The beautiful Broughty Ferry beach.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is special !!! Because it the only place in the UK that houses a great and creative acting and dance company in one building . Dundee Rep Enssemble and Scottish Dance Theatre

Dundee Rep Theatre is a place to be proud of .!!!!!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> As trite as it might sound the city's hidden secret is its people, their down to earth friendliness that so much has helped an 'outsider' like myself to feel at home from day one!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> people, festivals, music &amp; history
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love the seals hauled out on the sandbanks during low-tide in the Tay.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has amazing cultural and geographic attributes but its chief strength is its people with their unique sense of humour and caring attitude to each other that I have not encountered anywhere else in my travels all over the world.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The amazing local businesses tucked away in Exchange Street are becoming less of a secret by the day. Five minutes from the High Street and you'll find the best food in town at T Ann Cake and The Cheesery.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Ive been away 4 years now, near Glasgow and i have to listen to how great Glasgow is and how Dundee is a' wee toon' with nothing in it, mostly from people who think Dundee is in the highlands!!
I love nothing better than bringing weegie pals with me when i come home for a visit, i take them through the town, to the Discovery, across the bridge, up the Law at night (that view stuns them) the McManus and Nicolls for a peh! Weegies now in awe of us, job done.
I just let 'meh toon' do the talking!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a lovely wee city and an obvious choice for the UK City of Culture 2017! The view of the bridges driving along Riverside Drive are breathtaking. There are lots of lovely independant wee cafes and shops making it unique and there is so many exciting new developments taking place it really is the place to be!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee's maritime heritage often overshadowed by Glasgow but non the less ust as important. The Discovery,Unicorn and North Carr.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Magdalen Green holds some of the fondest memories from childhood, messing around on the bandstand with my grandparents, playing football with my parents. When the carnival would come, I'd make my uncle come on all the scary rides with me (while my mum watched on in horror). Off to the west side, in a more overgrown area, my friends and I had a rope swing, which I consistently fall off (with enduring rope burns). Sometimes on a nice spring day like today, I'd like to go back to Dundee and magdalen green and give that rope swing another go.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Loadsoweemensingin at the Rep Theatre!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I never seem to see Dundee as a city but rather one big cultural community where everyone is linked through the many events that take place. The art school, theatres and the DCA create a friendly and creative atmosphere in Dundee that has welcomed me so much that I don't mind being away from my big hometown, Glasgow (in fact I prefer staying here during my uni time)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love the cultural diversity of the city, the many different people from so many walks of life, dundee is fast emerging as a place to be whether you are into music, the arts, the outdoors, the city has a plethora of different things to offer everyone
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Dundee North West Community Sports Club is a newly established Community Club. It consists of 4 local sports clubs
and is in the process of becoming a registered charity.
Dundee West have also created strong School to Club Links within the area. The club delivered a Family Fun Day at Charlotte Street in May 2012 which was a fantastic event attracting over 2000 visitors throughout the day.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> My grandfather was walking home from the Kirk holding his father's hand on the night the Tay Bridge came down celebrated by the most awful doggerel ever penned by the 'poet' McGonigall. I went to Queens College in 1959 and took a degree in Chemistry and Physics and returned two years ago for a reunion and was amazed at the transformation of the city from the rundown images I remember in the sixties to the lively and fascinating modern Dundee with Scott's ship and so many other attractions artistic, cultural and physical.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The ancient Howff graveyard given to Dundee by Mary Queen of Scots, is an oasis of calm in the middle of the city, and a place to contemplate mortality.
Beautiful herbaceous borders with rare shrubs like the Yellow Magnolia mingle with crumbly, moss-furred tombs. Bygone names such as Barbary Bathie, German Stewart, and Euphemia Lochmolony really capture the imagination.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The beautiful sunrises when i walk to work looking over the river towards Fife, the daffs when they are out in bloom, the lovely parks and open spaces, the friendliness of the people, I have lived here all my life and I love it here.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Broughty Ferry beach, rock gardens, high street, castle are places worth visiting
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> We moved to Dundee from just north of London and we were surprised by the strength of community. Everyone in our street got on and took the time for small kindnesses like helping out the old folk with shopping when the snow was bad. We have taken the attitude with us since we have moved abroad.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Hidden secret - Broughty Ferry Amateur Operatic Society.
The present - our games industry.
The future - a cure for cancer, which some believe will be made here, in Dundee.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The views from so many angles are amazing. Both looking in and looking outwards. The struggles too, of many people such as my Granny who worked in the Jute Mills and the struggles too, of many today who can't find work, but keep striving despite the setbacks. It's not just the views, but the people. Their determinism to help others, even when they have so little, brings out the best. I've seen it often in the most surprising places.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> There's an incredible creative scene here, from the universities and colleges, to the artist studios, to the galleries and live music events.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Such a friendly city and also so much great music groups about. Choirs, Orchestras, bands etc.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The arrival to this city is unlike any other in the UK. Crossing the sparkling Tay, the city is set against the spectacular Law. A city of many surprises
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The Barnhill Rock Garden is my family's favourite place: tadpoles, dens, beasties, birds and beautiful scenery!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Rich industrial history with women working in the mills and their male folk staying at home boiling kettles and looking after the bairns
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Our ability to repeatedly rise again despite the odds.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Seals barking on the sandbanks
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Fewest of people arrive in Dundee with expectations but most of them leave with the fondest of memories. It must be the atmosphere of the people that leave something quite indescribable in the heart of every visitor.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> One of the great hidden secrets of Dundee is tin roof. Its an new art studio which has hosted a few great gigs which, I was lucky enough to attend. Just the once. I really hope to pop along again soon.
The atmosphere was brilliant. Everyone enjoying the music with a nice cold beer (there was no fridge it was just freezing!). Not to worry though, there was a nice fire out the back and when the music got a bit intense you could take a break and stroll through their gallery. It was some pretty funny cartoon sketches when i was there.
The music was everything from metal to folk. Whatever your into you'll enjoy tin roofs' events. Unless you don't like art or music of course. In that case get off the bid for city of culture. Swine!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> a mélange of cultures, young students from all over the world who feel comfortable and welcome in this city. Dundee has a strong history, and you'll find the roots in every little corner of the town.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Pulling off yet another Dundee Womens festival, most probably the largest and most varied women's festival in the UK, by harnessing the strengths, talents, enthusiasm, creativity and generosity of the community, that is Dundee. Celebrating women's culture, women's stories, women's wisdom, women's identities and women's lives.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> So many unique features, but can't fail to be impressed by the view approaching the city over the river. Especially at night.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is a multicultural city. It has a great creative hub with some inspiring works by people from all around the world. It is a thriving place for art, music, dance, theater and science. Dundee never fails to surprise me. It is not just the city of discovery but also the creative city yet to be reinvented.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I've come to this place to learn new skills and never planned to stay. That was about 8 years ago.

Ever since then this city has kept me fed, happy, working, learning, experiencing amazing new things, meeting great new people and not wanting to leave.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Heart Space Yoga and the Whiteroom's - two vibrant and supportive yoga centres in the lovely city of Dundee. Nourishing folks, impoving health and mental well-being.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is large enough to be a vibrant city, but small enough to still have a small-town friendliness. I work in tourism, and visitors are continually surprised by the overall attitude of Dundonians - it's what keeps bringing people back to the city, and why I'd rather be here than anywhere else.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's Scotland's fastest growing city
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I have lived away from Dundee for 5 years and every time i go home i see changes.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee is at once peaceful and energetic. There's a great sense of freedom and opportunity in the city
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The greatest hidden secret relating to the City at the moment is George McCann's EBook, entitled, The Eight Hale Mary's of Dundee, Scotland
The book essentially refers to the inspiration for it, which is a set of statues located on the rooftop of the McManus Art and Museum Galleries, originally the Albert Institute. The book delves into the history of Dundee prior to the Institute being built. The architect George, Gilbert Scott, is a central character. The story follows the progress of Muirfield Contracts, who carried out the latest refurbishment, and collates details of interesting artefacts within and surrounding the building. An 1860s Sanitary inspector is in the tale, as are local conditions and worldwide events taking place at the time. The ancient Howff cemetery and the associated Nine Incorporated Trades of Dundee command considerable space. The future of Dundee is left in the hands of those who will oversee it.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> That we are the only city in Scotland still with its own repertory group in its own theatre designed by its own architects.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Im Proud Dundonian. I Love how GTA was created in Dundee! and look out for the next top selling title to come from our city :)
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> A world-wide hub for Life Sciences and creative digital arts. The V&amp;A project will be a potent sign of a city reborn and draw the city to its fantastic waterfront. A city where everyone pulls together to be the best that we can be, and make a difference.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> A bright, blue-sky day and the sun shining on the beautiful River Tay and glinting off the railway bridge. Why would anyone want to live anywhere else?
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee seems like a city at first glance, but once you spend time in the city you realise it is like a village, impossible to walk through the centre without bumping into people you know.
There are different vibes and culture in the different parts of Dundee and its great to walk around and learn more about each of them.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Balgay Hill - a lovely walk, with nice views across the city.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> There are no roundabouts in Dundee only circles!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love Dundee it's everything a city should be but with a friendly village atmosphere. No matter where you are in this city you are never more than 20 mins away from great shops , the beach or the countryside ! We have world class education , amazing facilities , art all around us and the best people. Dundonian women are a true inspiration , lets face it even Winston Churchill refused to take them on !
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> An amazing riverside stretching west to east, perfect for walks cycling and nature. Especially between Stannergate and The Ferry. Inspirational river views and views of city skyline from Broughty Ferry. A wide variety of sports and music. The positivity and 'can-do' attitude of the city at the moment. THE V&amp;A!!! All these aspects and more make me proud to be a Dundonian and which puts a smile on my face when I see the city again from times being away! Go Dundee! I say!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Mennie's Bar (Sunday name is Speedwell Tavern) on Perth Road is a gem of a pub. Spent many happy hours in my youth being served by Mrs Mennie herself and her Manager Ian Thomson
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I love Dundee's long history of pioneering whole industries. Today many people think of DC Thomson as an institution of the city, but they almost single-handedly invented the global comics industry as we know it. Dundee's full of these sorts of inspiring stories, and that's why I'm backing the bid.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The mix of old and new, the energy of the place, the huge student population, there are so many hidden surprises here!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I lived in Dundee as an undergraduate in the 1990s and grew to love the place like a second home. As a historian Dundee has many a fantastic story to to tell in social and maritime history. There is a wonderful walk around some underground chambers, that was conducted by by Professor Charles McKeand in the day, I believe the city flooded in the late 17th Century so they just built on top of it and as the flood receded the old chambers opened up; just one gem of many!!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I'm not a Dundonian - but love staying here. I do wish the locals knew what they had and could appreciate it though. Dundee is a braw place!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I like the way Dundee is renewing itself, learning from its past and creating beautiful, interesting places. I love attending events, knowing I will meet interesting people who have lived all their lives in Dundee and have a wealth of stories about the city. I love the history of Dundee women as outlined in the Women's Heritage Trail which shows women's creativity, imagination, enterprise and courage - qualities which have helped to make the city what it is today.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Legend has it that Jack the Ripper is buried under Bell Street... Last man to be hanged in Dundee... Allegedly....
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee has an amazing live music scene. There is something to suit all tastes at a number of great venues. The Blues Bonanza is an event Dundonians can be proud of.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee's micro climate. All around it can be snowing heavily and you get to Dundee and the streets are clear. We also have more sunshine than other Scottish cities--which must help us be a more cheerful city !
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I was raised in Dundee but exiled since 1978. A moment of sheer sporting magic should be remembered - the UEFA Cup Final: Dundee United had lost to Swedish opponents but the reaction of the home fans at Tannadice Park was astonishing. A thunderous ovation that went on and on for both sides greeted the final whistle. United fans like me were all disappointed but our team hadn't let us down. It was a spontaneous, heartfelt, memorable gesture that sums up Dundonians' sense of fair play, warmth and generosity. Swedish fans were tearful as they'd never experienced anything like it. I'll never forget that evening.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Dundee's people are it's greatest asset. The vast majority are helpful and honest. It's been said that if you're lost in Edinburgh and ask for help, you'll be giving directions, in Glasgow they'll draw you a map, in Dundee they'll get in the car and take you there!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The amasing river and extremely friendly people
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The it has the small town feel while being a city. That feeling welcomed me here back in 2005 while interviewing for university. It made it feel like I belonged.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The huge, friendly creative community, the people, and the suprising love you gain for the city as a newcomer. Within 3 years of living here, I have made the best friends, found my creative output, found love, and found myself defending this fantastic city as my home.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> It's exciting to live somewhere that feels like it just keeps getting more interesting, more diverse and more creative. I'm not a Dundee native but it feels like home.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> The creative atmosphere in the city.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> People often think of Dundee in terms of what it used to be, but come here and have their opinions turned completely around by how awesome our city is now and the wealth of things to do and see.
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> I have looked out on the Tay all my life, now I have a view with the bridges in it now, I love that every day I look out the river changes. And it's even better from the top of the Law!
<b>Q) What surprises you about the city?</b><br><hr><b>A)</b> Not sure about a hidden secret, the secret seems to be the combination of contrasts that enrich each (besides the emerging strengths of "real" culture):
The Tay, different from all heights and angles (foregrounds of beautiful parks (Balgay Hill, Magdalen Green) or industrial heritage or multis or Meggie's Centre);
Buildings old and new of different uses (the Mecca Bingo beside the church, the mosque among the old jute mills, the new university buildings beside old houses, the medieval arches under the pub back exit);
And then the "real" culture as it spreads throughout the city: Scottish Dance Theatre and Dundee Schools Musical Theatre, Community Theatre in the Rep, small scale viewings in the DCA and Hannah Mclure Centre, school competitions (art and music).
Not sure this helps (sorry)

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