UK Theatre Network

EDINBURGH FRESTIVAL FRINGE – TILL 29 AUGUST 2010

THE SEAGULL by Anton Chekhov in a NEW adaptation by top playwright Jo Clifford

This open air production of the Russian genius's great work has been especially adapted by the celebrated Scottish playwright Jo Clifford. It is as though this masterpiece was written for Alba at Duddingston overlooking the loch. Magical drama

Jo Clifford says:

“I’ve wanted to work with Theatre Alba for years, ever since I started writing plays. At that time I saw their production of “The Shepherd Beguiled” which moved and impressed me profoundly.

That play and that production had a great influence on my work, and it is a real joy for me now all those years later that we finally have the chance to work together.

The Seagull is the perfect project for us to work on. The stunningly beautiful setting of Duddingston loch is absolutely right for the play, as is the whole playing style of the Company in all its emotional truth and power.

Charles Nowolskielski originally asked me to shorten the play. But as I started working on it the play worked its magic on me and before I knew it I found myself re-living the characters’ lives. And then hearing their words. Which I felt compelled to write down.

So I ended up rewriting the play and producing a completely new version of it. It is such a pleasure, and such a delight for me to inhabit Chekhov’s dramatic world. I hope it is the same for the audience too.”

Duddingston  Kirk Manse Gardens (Venue 121) , Old Church Lane, Edinburgh EH15 till 29 August (not 23,24).  7.30 pm.