A Play, A Pie and A Pint

Oran Mor

Sept 12th- 17th

Script:  Stagecraft:   Performance:  

The Letter, written by Stuart Paterson and directed by David Mackay, is a religious romp that concerns itself with stereotypical roles found within society at large but reflected in the antics of the three characters. Meet Deacon Orlov, sanctimonious and ever judgmental in his holier than now attitude to all and sundry : it is His way or the highway and he’ll take no prisoners. Contrasted with alcoholic  Father Anastasy who will chat to anyone for a vodka and Father Andrey wondering where his parenting skills failed him and we have a rather colourful insight into this letter writing trio. David Mackay stepped in to play Father Andrey last minute and was excellent in his portrayal of the bumbling indecisive deacon.

More smiles than guffaws, the farcical plot unravels at a pleasing adagio tempo to reach its climax which is surprising and unexpected but altogether welcomed. Deacon Orlov,  played by Laurie Ventry (Gangs of New york, Hector and River City), the rambunctious, self-righteous patriarch overseeing his minions is played with gusto and aplomb imparting his acerbic comments to the audience like an Andy Murray ace. Billy Riddoch (Trainspotting, Shallow Grave and Silent Scream ) was in top form , back for his third appearance in A Play,  A Pie and A Pint  since his first visit back in Season one in So Long Sleeping Beauty. He endearingly is delighted to be back in the real ‘ WEST END’. With thirty years acting and twenty directing, David Mackay’s ( My Name Is Joe, Ae Fond Farewell ) collective fifty years experience is a testament to the wealth of thespian talent Glasgow has to offer which we are lucky enough to be recipients of at Oran Mor .

Reviewer   :   Clare Crines