Written and Performed by Frankie Regalia

Review by Dominic Corr

George Mackay Brown Library at Scottish Storytelling Centre

Eloquently, and frankly, hilariously over the course of an hour – a single word tells generations upon generations of stories. Of systemic failures and erasures, which leaves a stark taste for an appreciation of the land and its gifts, and how far we have fallen in appreciation and respect. Spinster is that word. A career; a way of life (in multiple ways); a derogatory term; someone who, apparently, has a lot of cats.

Welcomed into the space by storyteller, writer, practitioner, and yes, spinster, Frankie Regalia introduces any who are unfamiliar to the realms of storytelling in a manner which captivates the uninitiated and gives a fix to the addicted. Initially casual and conversational, arguably performing a stand-up set with their quips and interactions with the pre-show natters, Regalia casually reels and spins strands of flax whilst the last audience members trickle in. And while their mellow nature never dissipates, what Spinster becomes is an authentic and respectful trio of tales which character the word spinster with the gradual decimation of women’s autonomy; the loss of ancient craft, and the rise of the patriarchal capitalist beast. So yeah, a bit of comedy is needed.  

Traversing Scotland from its earliest storytelling days, through the Middle Ages, Renaissance, the Clearances and right to that juggernaut death kneel for craft – the Industrial Revolution – Regalia’s collection of stories is light-hearted and impactful. Threading the stories with a collective theme of progression at the cost of regression for others, Spinster offers a deeply impactful collection of stories which can ring familiar, but with fresh perspectives and twists, and showcases Regalia’s storytelling talents with ease.

There is a mild imbalance in the tales, with one being lengthier than others, but it’s a minor quibble. There are plenty of stories out there, and plenty of growth for the production’s run to evolve. But for now, head up to the George MacKay Brown Library at the Scottish Storytelling Centre to find out if you could be a Spinster too (no cats involved). Trust us; you’ll be glad that you did.

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