Stream: Shades of Tay
Beautiful Boy
Written by Douglas Maxwell and performed by Richard Standing as part of Pitlochry Festival Theatre new writings, released through their digital series #PFTLightHopeJoy.
As the premier of this ambitious programme for monthly performances this felt like a somewhat bleak vision of Scotland. Having lived all my life by a river, formerly the Thames Estuary, presently the Spey I was surprised to listen to such a dark story around the River Tay. Perhaps my age might have something to do with it. This was a terrific piece of writing anyway. Though not sure if it was autobiographical or mythical, it gave me an understanding of the angst of a generation younger than myself.
The tale of a youngish man leaving behind a childhood of disappointment and inferred neglect to seek the bright lights of London which seemingly turned out sour. Returning to the hills and the river for his mother’s funeral the character confronts the reality of his childhood in a grim bungalow on the banks of the Tay and his modern obsession with being a hero to the girl he loved at school. Somehow the enchanted forest and the river get in the way, leading to a dramatic conclusion. Richard Standing brought this desperately sad character vividly to life with a clear and powerful performance backed by some atmospheric and rather lovely original music. I will certainly look at the ancient Caledonian forest around my house with a different eye in the future. Highly recommend listening, but beware: if you watch on a smart TV the flickering images may have an adverse effect.
After Miss Georgina Ballantine
Written by Linda McLean and performed by Rachael McAllister.
This is a short and charming tribute to the young lady famous for catching the largest ever salmon (64 pounds) at Dunkeld. As well as evoking the eye of the salmon as it seeks to avoid the fisher’s skills it was a joy to hear the voice of a woman and how she became a legend of the Tay. Beautifully brought to life by Rachael McAllister this short and joyful piece of writing bodes well for the next Saturday premier.
The Pitlochry Festival Theatre series of streamed pieces is available for free on their website.
