Blackfriars Wynd

What a refreshing show! Set in a dram shop in early 1900s in Edinburgh, the Scots vernacular lifts and authenticates the storyline which, in exemplifying the life of the poor, makes political comment on issues of class, education, privilege, authority and drink. These issues are made explicit by first class portrayals of character and fine singing by all. Well led by Ross Bain as Paddy the publican whose confident and fine voice takes us into the storyline and keeps us there and who sang a memorable Skibbereen. The Daughter of the Manse, Alison Burnet is played and sung genteelly by Suzanne Smail who demonstrates a lifestyle that is a neat contrast to the lives of the rest. In between is John Ward as the Honest Advocate, whose integrity as a lawyer is in conflict with his love of writing and later his love for Kitty,  performed nobly by Gillian Sullivan, who in turn wants security but is in conflict between that and her side-line of fencing stolen goods. Theirs was a heartfelt duet in Both of Our Dreams.  John Doonan as Maclaverty the Victorian Detective exudes menace.  Other convincing characters are: Rab Nicol played by David Mitchinson whose harsh and criminal outlook also lends itself to a little humour, along with his trained side-kicks Judy and Nancy, or Karen Walker and Pam Murray respectively; Jock Templeton played by Craig Potter as the football player who puts the ‘gemme’ before his accusation of murder; and his mother Rose played by Kate Halliday who provides the emotional bell weather to the story. Their singing of Heart of Midlothian Fitba Club was a delight.  Not to be outdone is Major Stuart whose common sense role of retired soldier is well fitted to Alex Kemp. His singing of Skelp the Dubs and Heart of My Days showed his versatility. The company were not to be outdone and sang, among others, an enthusiastic Plank It and Weel Done Oor Jock. All this, combined with realistic pub setting and costumes, made for wonderful entertainment.

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