Warrior/Poet merges ancient Celtic myth with eco-resistance, focusing on the Pollok Free State protests and the legend of Mad Sweeney. Storyteller David Hughes emphasizes personal experiences and community ties, expressing the evolving nature of storytelling. The performance encourages active audience participation, aiming to foster connection and cultural awareness.
Vicky Featherstone's adaptation of Muriel Spark's "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie" at the Royal Lyceum Theatre skillfully reveals the chilling dynamics of a charismatic teacher manipulating her students under the guise of beauty. Gayle Rankin's performance as Brodie and the striking visual design create a haunting exploration of authoritarianism amidst a backdrop of 1930s Scottish classrooms.
Finnish duo Riikka Palonen and Satu Lankinen present heartfelt narratives honoring extraordinary cows and the women who care for them. Their performances blend storytelling, music, and ancient cattle calls, portraying resilience and connection to tradition. These works aim to highlight the significance of stories and foster a vibrant storytelling community.
Edinburgh University Theatre Company's production of John Logan's "Red," directed by Theodore Casimir-Lambert, showcases the complexities of artist Mark Rothko, powerfully portrayed by Rufus Goodman. The dynamic between Rothko and his assistant Ken, played by Dylan Kaeuper, offers engaging dialogue and emotional depth, though pacing could improve. The technical elements enhance the immersive experience.
The Scottish International Storytelling Festival celebrates the Year of the Horse with performances by storytellers Tony Bonning and Allison Galbraith, sharing tales of horses, including kelpies and Clydesdales. Bonning's journey of storytelling, combining adventure and resilience, aims to inspire audiences to embrace their heroic journeys in life.
The Scottish International Storytelling Festival (SISF 2026) presents "Rewilding Scotland's Epics," featuring performances of the Ossian and Columba cycles. Led by Donald Smith, a team of storytellers and musicians bring Scotland's ancient tales to life, emphasizing nature's role. The festival highlights storytelling's cultural significance amid contemporary challenges.
In a review of "Waitress" at The King's Theatre, Laurie Kemmett praises the musical's heartfelt story and impressive performances, particularly by Lucie Jones as Jenna. However, she notes outdated stereotypes and issues with the spotlight distracting from the action. Overall, the show offers beautiful vocals but lacks some key elements for a perfect production.
Marina Funcasta reviews the Berliner Ensemble's performance of Oscar Wilde's "De Profundis" at the Coronet Theatre. She describes it as an intense exploration of desire, pain, and artistic creation, with Jens Harzer embodying Wilde's spirit. The adaptation captures the emotional depth of Wilde's prose, transcending mere translation.
The Citizens Theatre's production of "Tristan and Yseult," directed by Emma Rice, explores love's complexities through captivating performances. Tristan and Yseult's passionate romance contrasts with King Mark's steady devotion, each character embodying unique facets of love. The innovative stage design and the inclusion of comedic "Unloved" characters enhance the emotional depth, making it a moving experience.
In Matthew MacVarish’s solo piece, a woman's intense journey through urban isolation and selflessness unfolds against a stark backdrop, highlighting profound humor and loneliness while reflecting on her overlooked worth.
