Bard in the Botanics' production of "Emma," directed by Gordon Barr and adapted by Jennifer Dick, offers a lively outdoor rendition filled with humor and charm. The cast, led by Esme Bayley, engages the audience with vibrant performances, despite some pacing issues. Overall, it presents a delightful exploration of romantic misunderstandings amidst a comedic backdrop, suitable for summer enjoyment.
'The Kibble Palace often houses the less family-friendly part of The BITB season. Caged inside its wrought iron, The Duchess of Malfi feels tightly enclosed and charged with menace.' says Dominic Corr ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - The Duchess of Malfi. Runs at The Kibble Palace, Glasgow, until August 1st
Bard in the Botanics’ production of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, directed by Jennifer Dick, captivates with accessible storytelling set in the Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Highlighted by strong performances, particularly from Rebecca Robin and Lawrence Boothman, the production balances humor and emotional depth, successfully celebrating Shakespeare's timeless themes amidst a vibrant community atmosphere.
Mean Girls, delivers a humorous and heartfelt portrayal of high school life with strong performances and clever staging. It effectively captures the essence of the beloved 2004 film while engaging today's audience.
Written by Nay Dhanak Directed by Ben Standish and Brian Logan Review by Laurie Kemmett ★★★ Hear ye! Hear ye! Plays, pies, and pints abound in Glasgow at lunchtime, and the latest iteration is Nay Dhanak’s Cry/Laugh. A town crier and a court jester find themselves ousted from their jobs, and lacking any sense of purpose they … Continue reading Review: Play, Pie, and a Pint: Cry/Laugh – Òran Mór, Glasgow
Gordon Barr’s adaptation of Shakespeare’s Othello at the Kibble Palace offers a gripping modern critique of institutional tribalism set in a military context. The minimalist staging, coupled with outstanding performances, notably from Adam Donaldson as Iago and Manasa Tagica as Othello, emphasizes the chilling dynamics of manipulation and trust, resonating with contemporary themes.
Peter Quilter's musical "Allegra," directed by Stephen Mear and starring Dame Maureen Lipman, blends comedy and drama to explore mental health themes through a protagonist whose eccentricity disrupts her village. Despite its uneven tone and reliance on sentimentality, the production resonates with heartfelt messages about the acceptance of unconventional minds.
Revolution Days, directed by Shilpa T-Hyland and written by Mariem Omari, explores the humanitarian impacts of war through the eyes of aid worker Samira. The production captures the complexities of conflict, blending personal experiences with dark humor, while emphasizing the importance of bearing witness to human stories amid chaos.
Laurie Kemmett's review of Miss Saigon at the King's Theatre highlights the production's power and emotional depth. While acknowledging the show's controversies, Kemmett praises the outstanding performances and breathtaking set design. The narrative transcends a simple love story, exploring themes of motherhood, resilience, and the bond between the audience and theatre.
D.C. Jackson's "My Romantic History," directed by Johnny McKnight at the Tron Theatre, humorously dissects modern relationships through the dual perspectives of Tom and Amy. While the first half presents sharp observations and engaging performances, the second falls into repetitive self-analysis. Overall, it's a witty exploration of disconnection in romance.
