Showing @ Citizens Theatre, Glasgow until Sat 08 Mar @ times vary
In the same year that the Commonwealth Games arrive in Glasgow and a vote on Scottish Independence is being cast, there’s no better time for Cora Bissett’s Glasgow Girls to return to its hometown.
It’s based on the true story of seven girls from Drumchapel fighting for the justice of asylum seekers, eventually going on to win a political award for their headline grabbing campaign. Glasgow Girls is a highly politicised piece of theatre that triumphs Glasgow and will no doubt be part of the Scottish curriculum to be studied for many years to come.
The production, much like its setting, is fantastically ballsy and full of spunk – and presented without one weak link in its ensemble cast. Special mention however, must go to Scottish stage legend Myra McFadyen who manages to consistently deliver a comically timed deadpan performance – held up even during some of the grittier pieces of dialogue.
At times, however, it feels like the production is becoming predictable, failing with its message where other politically fuelled musicals, such as Billy Elliott, got it right – its need to show itself as intellectual and hard-hitting often took over when it wasn’t needed. However, the varying score and choreography maintains the attention of its audience, carrying them through the lower points of an overall excellent production.
It’s difficult not to leave this insightful and inspirational piece of theatre without finding something to like about it – whether it’s the diverse music, the impressive set showcasing the scaling intimidation of the 60’s high rises or the heart of gold that’s at the centre of the show – telling us over and over again about the unity and strength of Glasgow and the community surrounding it.