Seven teams in drama competition

The Isle of Arran SWI Federation is hosting the Anstruther Gray national drama competition this year at the Arran High School community theatre on Saturday November 10.

Originally a one-act play competition, it was decided to introduce a radio play version. Entries have dwindled over the years but, with the introduction of the radio plays, it means there are seven teams competing for the trophies from around Scotland.

The Arran Federation has a team entered. The play, written and produced by Wilma Moreton, who is also one of the characters, is about three women trying to save their allotment shed from demolition. Lots of drama and laughs are to be had listening to this play.

It will be up against the Bellsquarry, Harburn and Ratho Institutes (Midlothian) presenting Conflict is a Given; Jackston Institute (Lanarkshire) presenting Charity Begins at Home; Craigie Institute (Ayrshire) presenting Once Upon a Time (but not as you know it); Carnbee Institute (Fife) presenting Conflict Over Health and Safety; Tillicoultry Institute (Stirling, Clackmannan and West Perth) presenting Shetland Greets Dundee; and Kyleakin Institute (Inverness-shire) presenting Conflict 917. The judge will be Alastair Hawthorn.

Jerry Arthur, chairwoman of the SWI and lover of amateur dramatics on Arran, said: ‘It’s all about voices and sound effects in these productions. You have to imagine you are in the kitchen with the radio on. If you can be transported to the place portrayed in the play, then the producer has done a good job.’

Everyone is welcome to the event. Doors open at 1.15pm with the curtain up 1.45pm.