‘Under Another Sky’ by David Grieg
Pitlochry Festival Theatre - 22/09/22
Pitlochry saved the best to last for my final trip this summer. Last year David Greg gave us a striking new work on the romance between a Pictish maiden and a Roman soldier. This year revisiting the Romans he came up with a terrific story based on the best-selling historical work by Charlotte Higgins. Not everyone’s cup of tea you may have thought. Do you have to know your Tacitus from your Vergil? Not at all. Take a one-night stand relationship between an older academic and a young writer, put them together in an ad hoc camper van off to research the Romans in Britain for a book deal, and you have an engaging premise. The comings and goings of history in this island. Along the way you journey from Kent to York, Newcastle via Sussex, all brought to life in a wooden amphitheatre set in the beautiful Explorers Garden overlooking the River Tay. With a bare minimal set of a bed, a bookcase, and a desk, plus very many props cleverly hidden, the two actors, Keith Macpherson and Amelia Donkor, create a believable, funny and clever relationship as they enact their journey in a dodgy campervan around Britain. Both actors create a modern world of real people whilst bringing to life the trials of endeavouring to find out where and how the vast Roman civilisation managed to conquer this island and then suddenly leave, plus all the gaps in between. That becomes a running joke. Modern technology interferes, their van conks out, they banter, quote literature, and enjoy the road trip together. A witty, well written script, performed by two consummate professionals, this piece rips along and the audience is left disappointed when it comes to an end. Cleverly directed by Artistic Director Elizabeth Newman, with subtle music and sound, I almost thought I would book a ticket for the next day. Rising fuel prices intervened. I hope they bring this piece back next year. Or perhaps Mr Greig would complete the trilogy. If you can’t see this play, then read the book. A superb ending to a deservedly successful summer season.
