Outlandish!

It’s the summer of 1746. Bonnie Prince Charlie has fled to the Outer Hebrides, closely pursued by 2,000 redcoats. There, a local girl, Flora Macdonald, agrees to guide him to safety. And so a myth is born.

But what if her motives were less pure than the myth suggests? What if the rescue was more mishap than heroism?

OUTLANDISH! is a camp, comic, musical subversion of a tale we think we know, set against a reign of terror in which no one declares which side they’re on, everyone is out for themselves, and in which the sentimental power of a spurious Jacobite song can change the course of history.

Programme

Rehearsals for Outlandish! Performed at The Actors, Brighton 11-13 October, 2024. With Sam Nixon as Flora Macdonald/Donalda Macdonald, Phil Nair-Brown as Bonnie Prince Charlie/Samuel Johnson, Alasdair Carson-Sheard as Angus Macdonald/Captain Con O'Neil, and Mark Priestley as The Musician.

What they said

'Inspired by both historical events and myths surrounding the fleeing of Bonnie Prince Charlie to the Outer Hebrides in 1746, this three person play focuses on the story as seen through the eyes of Flora MacDonald, who helped him to safety. Billed as a comedy, there are many serious moments of retelling as well as some bordering on farce and panto style thigh slapping'

'The strength in this production is in the performances. Callum Murray has cast three very accomplished versatile actors who are supported by a wonderful violin player. Mark Priestley accompanies all the songs and provides occasional music during the play where needed'

'The songs, both original ones and traditional, all drive the story as well as add a gorgeous melodic Scottish ambience to the whole thing... In particular, the three part harmonies by the actors with pitch perfect blended vocals are an absolute goosebump giving joy'

'The multi-roleing actors: Sam Nixon, Phil Nair-Brown and Alasdair Carson-Sheard are superb and equally strong. They play each of their multi-role characters with depth and layers, making them feel full, rounded and real'

Brighton Source, October 2024