An award-winning modern retelling of an ancient myth is set to take centre stage in Paisley this month.
Òran, described as a “thrilling reimagining” of the Orpheus myth, will be performed at Paisley Arts Centre on Wednesday, September 24, as part of its first-ever UK tour.
The tour follows a sell-out run at the 2024 Edinburgh Fringe, where the play was named Best Debut at the Skinny and Fest Mag Awards.
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Delivered by theatre company Wonder Fools, Òran blends spoken word, lyrical storytelling, and a live electronic score in a contemporary revamp of the Greek legend for a new generation.
Robbie Gordon and Jack Nurse, directors and co-founders of Wonder Fools, said: “We’re buzzing to be bringing Òran on its first-ever UK tour this autumn.
“The Fringe run was incredible.
“To have reviews that heralded it as an ‘electric tour de force’ and ‘totally immersive’ was really a dream come true for us as a team.
“The show blends spoken word storytelling with a live electronic soundtrack – created by VanIves – to retell an ancient myth in a completely fresh, contemporary way.
“Think poetry meets music from a class night out, ancient myth meets modern tales of friendship.
“We’re excited to share this story with new audiences across Scotland and England, especially in places we’ve never performed before.
“It’s going to be an unforgettable trip to the Underworld – don’t miss it.”
Written by hip-hop artist Owen Sutcliffe, Òran follows its title character on a heart-pounding journey to the Underworld to rescue his best friend.
The story explores themes of risk, love and sacrifice in a contemporary setting.
Owen said: “It’s really exciting to see Òran heading out on the road this autumn.
“Last year’s award-winning Fringe run showed us how much the story resonates with audiences, and I want to bring as many new people into that membership as possible.
“The staging, the live score, Robbie Gordon’s tour-de-force performance as Òran – none of it’s to be missed.
“Pack your bags and switch off your phones, troops, we’re heading back down.”
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The show features a live electronic soundtrack created by VanIves, who said: “We wanted to create a soundtrack that feels like both a gig and a myth – something that pulses with the energy of today while echoing the timelessness of the story.
“As regular collaborators of Wonder Fools, we really wanted to set Robbie a challenge and create a show that feels like it takes real effort to perform.”
Òran is supported by Creative Scotland’s touring fund.
Tickets for the Paisley show and full tour information are available on the Wonder Fools website.
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