Paras Over the Barras (Part 2) is the stage adaptation of James Barclay’s autobiographical novel about his experiences of living in Glasgow during the Second World War.  Set in various tenements around the East End of Glasgow we follow an old man and his desperation for alcohol through the rationing; a lusty old woman and her desperation for a man even if he’s the enemy; a young girl and her wedding preparations to a man in the secret service; and a member of the home guard and his hapless exploits.

Through a series of cleverly crafted vignettes the audience are introduced to these superbly observed characters from the writers past.  The script is hugely entertaining with a punch line every 20 seconds or so and the cast relish the opportunity to deliver such comic material with precision and perfect timing. 

The cast themselves are hugely talented performers who are clearly comfortable playing to the packed out venue and work well together. 

The sets are simple and well designed to reflect the time with beautifully realised details that add to the nostalgia of the piece though the pace of the production is hampered by clumsy scene changes and occasional technical hitches.

Essentially, this production is staged in an old church hall with limited resources and the company make the best of what they have. There’s a real air of a ‘community jolly’ about the show with an audience made up mainly of over 60’s all raucously appreciating the nostalgia of the time. Definitely one to take your granny to.

St Serf’s Church Hall
Aug 5, 7-12, 14-19: 19:30 (2hrs) £8:00 (£6:00)