As Britain marks 100 years since women first gained the right to vote, Oldham Coliseum Theatre, Hull Truck Theatre and New Vic Theatre present a brand new, all-female adaptation of Compton Mackenzie’s Whisky Galore by Philip Goulding.
Partly inspired by the true story of the Osiris Players, a troupe of female actors who toured the British Isles from 1927 – 1963, this new production is a tribute to the feisty, fearless all-female touring companies of the post war years.
Under the dogmatic direction of the redoubtable Flora Bellerby, witness the Pallas Players – Win, Doris, Flora, Bea, Aileen, Connie and Juliet – as they play all the hilarious and diverse characters from Compton Mackenzie’s comedy classic.
The islanders of Great and Little Todday are dismayed to find their whisky supply dwindling, as the government diverts the precious stuff to the Americans in an attempt to bribe them into supporting the British war effort.
When a 50,000 whisky bottle cargo shipwrecks close by welcome relief seems to be at hand. Conflict is guaranteed, however, once stuffy Paul Waggett of the Home Guard takes it upon himself to try and prevent the thirsty islanders from taking advantage of their good fortune.
Meanwhile, as in the finest of Shakespearian comedies, two weddings are planned; one hinges on timid George Campbell finding the (Dutch?) courage to stand up to his disapproving mother; the other involves a leading English Officer’s love for the daughter of a leading whisky filcher.
This production’s all-female cast includes: Christine Mackie (Downton Abbey’s Daphne Bryant); Coliseum favourite Isabel Ford; and Joey Parsad, who recently completed a national tour of Around The World in 80 Days (New Vic Theatre).
Compton Mackenzie’s Whisky Galore was published in 1947, inspired by the sinking of the SS Politician off Eriskay in 1941. It was adapted into an Ealing comedy film in 1949 and became an instant success.
Writer Philip Goulding is a Coliseum favourite, whose previous work includes: Our Gracie, A Fine Bright Day Today, The Road to Nab End, Wake Up Little Suzie!, Feels Like The First Time and Horse or River.
Whisky Galore runs from Friday16 March – Saturday 7 April 2018 at Oldham Coliseum Theatre.
Following its run at Oldham Coliseum Theatre, Whisky Galore will embark on a national tour.
Tickets can be booked on 0161 624 2829 or at www.coliseum.org.uk
