Ahhh! The youthful enthusiasm approach! Recently graduated from QMU, Rona Johnston, writer and lead performer, gathers her (5) Marys to tell the story of Mary Stewart, Queen of Scots. The 6 young ladies squeeze onto the tiny stage, smirking, impetuous and ready. With a strong feminist thread and music at its heart and a SOLD OUT run, this feels close to being a hit! But SIX this is not. Not yet!
Through a mixture of verse and song we follow Mary and her inner circle (known as her Marys) from France to Scotland and on to London and her ultimate demise. It is a strong story which lends itself to performance.
Eight songs (soon to be released on Spotify) light up the production, ranging from Celtic ballads to grunge-rock anthems. Alli Von Hirschberg on electric lead guitar is a star in the making.
I spy three separate amps, two electric power extension leads and a whole spaghetti load of cables and wires. There are tech problems, including Rona’s own microphone set-up, cutting in and out, and the violin getting swamped by the guitar and bass. Radio mics and a bit of housekeeping could do wonders, as could a bit of steadying and focusing direction.
However, there is no denying that there is something special here. Watch this space.
Reviewer: Greg Holstead
Reviewed: 12th August 2024
North West End UK Rating:
Running time – 50mins