Whisky Galore - A Musical

Take a well-written book together with a talented company and you are a good way to having a successful show! Here, Markinch MS have both.

Let me start by making one generalism: Singing and acting by all principals and chorus was of a very high standard.

The two young couples suffering under religious differences which aren’t there (but in fact really are!), Sergeant Odd (Craig Spence) & Peggy Macroon (Laura Spence) and George Campbell (Scott Nicol) & Catriona MacLeod (Ashley Ferguson) formed a strong backbone to the storyline in the show, and, where the character required, maintained a good West Highland accent. George Campbell, constantly under-the-thumb of his Presbyterian mother (Fiona Hunter), eventually (after a few drams) breaks and tells his mother some home truths in “George & the Dragon” – probably one of my favourite numbers in the show. Well sung and well moved.

Carefully guiding them on their way both spiritually and with spirit is Father Macalister the local Catholic priest – also adding many comedic moments to the proceedings.

Comedy is raised up a notch with Captain Waggett and his group of Home Guards (remember Dad’s Army?), the latter, together with their wives, doing their best to disabuse the Captain of any existence of whisky on the Island – even after a shipload runs aground. These Home Guards offer an excellent opportunity to formulate a host of differing characterisations which I feel were achieved in this performance.

“Whisky Galore – A Musical” also offers opportunity in plenty for smaller character parts and tonight I must congratulate them all! 

Music was well controlled in the pit by MD Robert Nee, which, together with good sound operation, made for an evening of comfortably heard lyrics and music.

Sets for Whisky should be – and were – simple.  All the scenery was constructed and painted by the Society, showing that the traditional form of amateur theatre still exists, and does not have to impinge in any way on the quality of the show.

Well done Markinch MS for giving an evening of first-class entertainment!

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