'A couple of hours of great entertainment celebrating the power of a community,' Joy Watters review the Scottish classic.
When Tony Roper’s first play was looking for a producer, some doubted its appeal, criticising the lack of plot. Ah, how wrong they were as it is now on its 25th anniversary tour, directed by Roper himself.
It was because The Steamie was simply Four Wifies and Nae Funeral that it has found itself a place in the hearts of the Scottish public. The audience does not need to be put through the wringer to feel for the women. They just listen to them and understand.
The Steamie covers a few hours in a 1950s Glasgow washhouse on Hogmanay. The women hurry to get the washing done before the bells. Humour and pathos is underpinned by the belief that although life is hard and your family may let you down, there’s always your pals to get you through.
This production features a strong cast which not only does justice to Roper’s lines but also David Anderson’s songs, which crystallise the hopes and dreams of the quartet.
The four women are different ages with different mind-sets: young, old, dreamer, cynic and wearily resigned. Doing the washing was hard physical work and the girls rally to help old Mrs Culfeathers. Kay Gallie reprises the role for the umpteenth time, beautifully blending the sureness of a woman who knows her dram with a poor old soul, ignored by her family and forced to takes in washing to make ends meet. Dolly, gallusly galumphing round in her boots is given real body, heart and soul by Jane McCarry, with not only a great comic performance but a great singing voice. Fiona Wood as young Doreen sweetly soars through the songs expressing all her dreams.
There was a frisson of excitement when the audience realised the Galloways’ mince set piece was about to begin. One of the daftest moments of Scots theatre, its execution was a delight.
It is a couple of hours of great entertainment celebrating the power of a community that cares for each and every member. More and more of a pipe dream as the years go by, but what a lovely escape from reality.
The Steamie tours until May 14.
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