Beyond the Headlines
Part of our Virtual Programme, “Beyond the Headlines” joins writers from Scottish Community Drama Association Clubs from across Scotland, and high-profile professional actors who are ex SCDA members, in the premier of a series of new monologues.
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Created During Lockdown
This opportunity was created for SCDA members, with the aim of bringing the professional and amateur world together to support each other during the current climate, during which theatre performances are not possible.
For two months, Playwright and Creative Director, Lisa Nicoll has worked with ten writers from SCDA clubs all over Scotland using a process of live and recorded workshops, and one to one development sessions. The writers have each created a 5 minute fictional story/monologue that has been inspired by a media headline, but takes us on a journey ‘Beyond The Headlines’.
The Actors
This process culminated in a digital online performance of these pieces on Thursday 20th August by professional actors: Alan Cumming, Robin Laing (Band of Brothers HBO, River City BBC, Waterloo Road BBC), Caroline Deyga (Our Lady of Perpetual Succour, National Theatre Scotland, Local Hero and Lyceum Theatre), Mark Armstrong (Our Girl BBC, Frankenstein, National Theatre) and Lisa Nicoll herself. These actors are all ex-members of Carnoustie Theatre Club, and were participants in SCDA Festivals and activities over the years.
Aunty Betty
Lisa cut her teeth through SCDA festivals with Carnoustie Theatre Club for nearly 15 years. Her Aunty, Betty Gibson, was an active member of the SCDA for nearly 50 years, especially in the area of the youth festivals, and encouraged Lisa (like Betty did with so many others including Alan, Robin, Caroline and Mark) in her field.
SCDA Clubs Involved
Clubs involved include: Kirkton Players, Ury Players, Aberdour Players, Spotlights Community Youth Theatre, Thornhill Players, Greenock Players, Dunoon Players, Linlithgow Players and Fintry Amateur Dramatic Society.
The Writers
Tony Flisch, Julie Forrester, Marley Hunter, Kevin Murphy, Richard Payne, Timothy Roberts, Robin Smith, George Thomson, Olga Watkins and Carole Williams.
Production Staff
Lisa Nicoll (Producer & Script Development); Mikey Murray (Script Editor); Daryl Cockburn (Film Editor); Paul Devlin (Composer); Bryan Martin (Technical Support).
Being part of Carnoustie Theatre Club and SCDA Festivals was a huge part of my development as an actress, writer and producer and provided me with an amazing grounding for the career I embarked on. An invaluable experience that made me ready for life and able to mix with people of all ages and background.To be able to work and develop short plays with writers from SCDA clubs makes me feel like I am coming home
Lisa Nicoll
Creative Director, In Motion
When I found out from Lisa that my monologue was going to be performed by Alan Cumming I couldn’t believe it. I am totally over the moon.
Kevin Murphy
Greenock Players