A “pioneering” theatre company is set to make its Scottish debut this autumn.
Great Yarmouth’s Contemporary Ritual Theatre (CRT) will present SALT, a production by Beau Hopkins.
Following a sell-out tour of East Anglia and London in 2024, SALT will embark on its UK tour this autumn, with the Scottish leg taking place from September 5 to 25.
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Inspired by the migration path of herring in the North Sea, the play will have 10 dates in Scotland’s islands and coastal regions, including a performance at Paisley Arts Centre on September 20.
The tale, based on the East Norfolk coast in 1770, follows Billy, a devout young fisherman, and his domineering mother, Widow Pruttock, as they navigate life governed by the herring harvest and their devotion to God.
Their cold and isolated existence is disrupted by Sheldis, a singer with “supernatural gifts.”
As Billy becomes obsessed with her, his mother will do anything to break the spell she believes has bewitched him.
The production, filled with sea shanties, dances, hymns and folk songs, is a tale of “faith, jealousy and demonic passion.”
Beau Hopkins, the playwright and director, expressed excitement about bringing SALT to Scotland.
Beau said: “I cannot wait to bring SALT to Scotland.
“The landscape, heritage and music of the Scottish coast were key inspirations in our planning for the SALT UK tour.
“We believe that the play’s setting, themes and story, as well as its use of folk songs, will speak to the spirit and traditions of Scotland’s coastal communities, and the tour will honour the key role played by Scottish fishermen in the rich history of herring fishing.”
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CRT, founded by Hopkins in 2022, is committed to developing a new form of theatre known as ‘ritual theatre.’
This form of theatre emphasises the “close physical connection of performers and audience”, integrating song, movement, dance and masking to create a visceral theatrical experience.
Using only a circle on the ground for a stage, CRT aims to unite and transform audiences and performers within a single, unforgettable ritual.
To find out more about the play, including full tour dates and how to book tickets, visit the Contemporary Ritual Theatre company website.
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