The Herald
Published on 15 August 2012
Sophie Kindreich
The Ballad of Pondlife McGurk, Traverse @ Scottish Book Trust
HHHHH
One show that is successful in entertaining both adults and children is the Catherine Wheels' Ballad of Pondlife McGurk. Its story is one so relatable that it transcends generational gaps – whether you're nine or ninety, you will be able to identify with one of the characters.
Andy Manley is an incredibly talented performer and effortlessly captures his audience's attention, relying only on his incredible storytelling abilities.
Rob Evans' story, directed by Gill Robertson, is of a primary school friendship between Martin (a new student from Birmingham) and Simon (the class outcast and resident oddball).
Both ostracised by the popular crowd, they form the type of bond that only boys on the cusp of puberty can. Together they create comics, build dens and explore, letting their imaginations run wild. Their friendship becomes tentative after a disastrous school trip and football try-outs, when Martin is picked for the team.
As he begins to spend time with the popular pupils, he becomes increasingly embarrassed by his friendship with Simon, who is sneered at by the likes of bully Sharon McGuiness. .
Manley is exceptional throughout – he portrays a vivid image of school bullies, peer pressure and innocent friendships gone awry. The themes will resonate regardless of your age, striking a chord with children experiencing the same thing, or evoking bitter memories for those whose past is tainted with childhood betrayal.
Ends August 26
Sophie Kindreich
The Ballad of Pondlife McGurk, Traverse @ Scottish Book Trust
HHHHH
One show that is successful in entertaining both adults and children is the Catherine Wheels' Ballad of Pondlife McGurk. Its story is one so relatable that it transcends generational gaps – whether you're nine or ninety, you will be able to identify with one of the characters.
Andy Manley is an incredibly talented performer and effortlessly captures his audience's attention, relying only on his incredible storytelling abilities.
Rob Evans' story, directed by Gill Robertson, is of a primary school friendship between Martin (a new student from Birmingham) and Simon (the class outcast and resident oddball).
Both ostracised by the popular crowd, they form the type of bond that only boys on the cusp of puberty can. Together they create comics, build dens and explore, letting their imaginations run wild. Their friendship becomes tentative after a disastrous school trip and football try-outs, when Martin is picked for the team.
As he begins to spend time with the popular pupils, he becomes increasingly embarrassed by his friendship with Simon, who is sneered at by the likes of bully Sharon McGuiness. .
Manley is exceptional throughout – he portrays a vivid image of school bullies, peer pressure and innocent friendships gone awry. The themes will resonate regardless of your age, striking a chord with children experiencing the same thing, or evoking bitter memories for those whose past is tainted with childhood betrayal.
Ends August 26