Jason Henderson finds the Fringe show 'well worth enjoying'.
With the independence referendum a daily topic of discussion in Scotland and both sides of the argument, at times, using the words of Robert Burns as part of their campaign propaganda, it was certainly going to be a big task for anyone wishing to attempt to tackle a question that has arisen on numerous occasions recently: which way would Scotland’s most famous son vote if he were alive in 2014?
In fact, it seems such a big task that as audience members took their seats for Robert Burns Votes for Scotland (★★★★☆), they would surely have been forgiven for any scepticism about what lay in store. But what followed was simply fantastic. With broadcaster Mark Stephen assuming the role of Burns and the Bard’s wife Jean Armour played by singer Gill Bowman, the hour-long show was a great collection of song, poetry, history, politics, culture and, above all, thoroughly enjoyable entertainment.
Some of the most well-known of Burns work featured, such as ‘Parcel O’ Rogues’, ‘A Man’s A Man’ and ‘Ae Fond Kiss’ as the show combined the political dilemma facing the poet with the beautiful singing of his wife. There was also room for some of the most fascinating events in Scottish history, including the failed Darien project and the battle of Culloden, presented to the audience from the point of view of a passionate Burns. Many political and social issues were, of course, also identified against the backdrop of next year’s referendum, as the main topic of the show was highlighted and discussed continuously.
In terms of performance, Mark Stephen portrayed a deceased Burns concerned with modern politics very well, combining anecdotal experiences from the poet’s own life with a great passion for Scotland to create a captivating figure on stage. On many occasions the audience seemed to observe the singing renditions from Gill Bowman with a collective joy, and the obvious chemistry between the quarrelling couple was clearly visible and added to the performance as a whole.
There is no doubt that Robert Burns Votes for Scotland is, as expected, heavily focussed on the issue of independence and Scottish politics, but it also offers a lot more. This is a great celebration of the man – both in terms of his work and his undoubted love of Scotland – that enthrals and entertains from start to finish. For anyone with an interest in Burns or Scotland, be it in terms of politics, history or culture, this is a wonderful experience well worth enjoying.
Robert Burns Votes for Scotland at Valvona & Crolla, 20:30
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