| Review by Ruth Mcewan, August 2006
1947 and Compton Mackenzie writes a novel entitled Whisky Galore. In 1949 Whisky Galore is made into a film, based on the true story of the sinking of the SS Politician in 1941, and how the cargo washed ashore disrupted the lives of the people on a small Hebridean island. 2006 and Cutting Edge Theatre present the world premiere of Whisky Galore - A Musical. and are thrilled to have been given permission to undertake the task of creating a musical from the Compton Mackenzie novel.
The Second World War, and a small island on the Outer Hebrides is feeling the effects of the war on the home front, especially rations of the whisky variety, and when a cargo ship full of the beloved brew runs aground, the islanders undertake a frantic evening of storing their precious find. Lovers are in love, and spirits are high. On the lookout for seizing any contraband is Waggett (Lee), who also has a sneaky taste for the forbidden substance…
Cutting Edge seems comfortable with all aspects of this production, and their performances reflect this; well rehearsed musically and a strong sense of what the piece is about. The venue itself yet again hinders the reputation the company have established with past productions, but a full house was very warm and receptive, both those familiar with the story and those who weren’t. A taste of the real Scotland for Scots alike and all of Edinburgh’s festival time visitors.
Venue: Augustine’s, George IV Bridge (08452 26 27 21)
Dates: 8, 10, 12, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 & 26 August at 5.55pm
Tickets: £12 (£10)
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