It’s 10 years on since Scotland rejected a bid to become independent from the rest of the UK.
A tense time for all, but an issue which still rumbles on. Thankfully now it can be discussed with humour as well as from the heart.
Action Theatre Scotland has just rounded off its tour at Cumbernauld Theatre in Lanternhouse included The Edinburgh Fringe and writer and director Jack Bryne and co-writer Jordan Howat have been pulling in the plaudits for the unbiased show Alba.
It’s funny, poignant and at times a wee bit sad, but it’s great that the controversial subject can bring all the Ayes and Naws together.
With some catchy tunes from Scottish favourites, it’s 90 minutes of pure entertainment.
Told through the eyes of 16-year-old first time voter, Paul (Christopher Nicol), the audience follow as he and his S4 classmates come to terms with the weight of the monumental decision, while battling the pressures of being a teenager.
Paul also has to contend living in a household where his dad (Robert McCahill) is for Independence and his mum (Lynn Mulvenna), against and trying to keep his girlfriend Carol happy.
His best friend Craig (L.J. Aitken) has problems too when his grandma develops dementia and is taken into care and both Paul and Craig struggle to grow up as they latch onto their childish antic which include picking on class swot Peter (Brandon Ferguson).
It’s down to class teachers Mr and Mrs Lindale (Kirsty-Valentine Willcocks and Jordan Howat) to try and inspire the youngsters to take the referendum seriously.
The cast is made up of ensemble actors Cara Slavin, Bethany McGurl, Hannah Sinclair and Preston Hill and despite the seriousness of the subject, it’s a great play, funny and inspiring and its fabulous to see such a young and enthusiastic cast enjoying their work and having fun as they perform.
Action Theatre Scotland is a Glaswegian company focused on telling working class stories which promote action as well entertain. For more information you can check out the Action Theatre Scotland Facebook page.
Author Bio:
Rebecca Hay is an experienced travel writer and member of The British Guild of Travel Writers. Follow her adventures with her family on Twitter and Instagram @emojiadventurer and on Facebook via EmojiAdventurers2.
Photographs by Sooz Aitken
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