Last night I managed to snag two free tickets to see the performance of East is East in Glasgow’s Theatre Royal. I was looking forward to this after hearing rave reviews from its sensational West End run as part of the Trafalgar Transformed season.
Also, Pauline McLynn, Mrs Doyle from the UK’s beloved TV sitcom “Father Ted” had a starring role – therefore, it was a sure-fire hit?!
For those who may not be aware, East is East is a stage-show about a Pakistani chip shop owner who is determined to give his children a strict Muslim upbringing in 1970s Salford. Household tension reaches breaking point as their long-suffering English mother, Ella, gets caught in the cross fire with her loyalties divided between her marriage and the free will of her children.
East is East was also adapted into a highly successful movie in 1999.
I had no idea what to expect going into the show. I had seen (and highly enjoyed) the film…but had never heard anything about the stage adaption. One humorous by-stander outside the venue even informed me that it was a “camp musical” … which luckily turned out to be untrue!
I am happy to say that I found the show to be extremely well written. The stage show contained the same essence of family which made the film such a compelling watch.
However, I must admit that the best part of the evening for me was getting to spend some time in Glasgow’s Theatre Royal for the first time since its significant refurbishment last year.
The £4million refurbishment of Glasgow’s Theatre Royal has created a truly unique piece of architecture standing right in the heart of the city. As displayed in the photographs above – the modern twist of the new entrance way contrasts beautifully with the original theatre’s stunning auditorium. The Theatre Royal will now surely become a must see for all tourists visiting the city. I can’t recommend it enough.
Until next time,
Gallous.
Gallus Lad 