Sky high success

Guild production wows town hall crowds

Airdrie Arts Guild Drama Group soared to great heights as they once again wowed packed audiences at the Sir John Wilson Town Hall with their latest production – ’ Paras Over the Barras: The Second Wave’.

The play by James Barclay, set in the East End of Glasgow near the famous Barras during the Second World War, provided a heartwarming, hilarious and nostalgic look back at the wit and spirit of city life during the dark days of the forties when the grit and humour of Glaswegians overcame adversities during war time shortages and rationing.

For the McSorleys and their neighbours in the East End tenements, their primary focus was making the best of what life had to offer as the New Year approached; extra booze was required and a wedding was in the offing.

Eddie Gouther captured the true essence of the unattached Wullie McSorley, delivering hilarious one liners – often at the expense of the amorous Ina McLatchie, expertly played by a wonderfully-fun May Wakely.

Morag Donald provided a suitably calming influence in holding family and local friendships together as Annie while helping her daughter Rita, cheekily played by Wendy Gallacher, plan and prepare her wedding to the rather “off the wall” Rasputin Plunkett (Peter Paterson) and trying not to forget her husband Sammy ( Grant Johnston), a prisoner of war in foreign lands.

Bill McLoy was back in the saddle as the special constable adding to the comedy as Erchie McPherson with Patrick Rafferty in superb form as Hans the German paratrooper.

Great – and varied – performances were also provided by Guild members Alistair Donald ( Curdy McVey), Cat Gemmell ( Mrs Cominsky), Bill Malone ( Fingers McGeachie) and Colin Archibald (Jimmy Smith).

Not to be outshone, Patrick Rafferty ( Father McGillicuddy) and Giovanna Tweedie (Plooky Boyle and Mrs O’Toole) were at the top of their game, with Anne Greechan and Netta Logue also bringing pin-point accuracy to a pair of gossiping neighbours.

This was a most entertaining and thoroughly enjoyable production which closed in style with the entire cast presenting a selection of well known Scottish songs.

They were ably accompanied by the talented Kenny Finnie on the accordion, mirroring what we once knew as a traditional Hogmanay party for family and friends.

The cast then received a well-earned, booming standing ovation from the thoroughly enthused audience and sent everyone home with huge smiles on their faces.

Those who missed the production certainly missed out – but can enjoy the chance to join in the fun when the group next take to the stage as they enjoy nothing better than entertaining their home town audiences.

To keep up-to-date with the Art Guild Drama Group’s future musical shows, rehearsals and casting calls, visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pages/Airdrie- Arts- Guild- DramaGroup/109577202394883

Stage stars The cast are in full flow during the hit production