August 20th 2024.
Ellie Forbes raves about a recent performance that she attended, calling it a "poignant, colourful, and hilarious" portrayal of Scotland's national treasure. As a long-time fan of Billy Connolly, my cousin recently purchased a striking piece of artwork featuring the beloved comedian. He even had the opportunity to chat with Billy himself during a Q&A session at the gallery where he bought the piece. During their conversation, my cousin shared his own personal story of undergoing a kidney transplant after years of struggling with kidney disease.
At the time, my cousin didn't think much of their brief encounter, but a few weeks later, he received a surprise in the mail - a copy of Billy's book with a note from the man himself, expressing how much he enjoyed their conversation. To my cousin's delight, Billy had even signed the book with a witty remark about knowing more about kidneys than the local butcher. Needless to say, my cousin has been regaling us all with this tale ever since. And as Ellie Forbes points out, everyone seems to have a "Billy story" of their own - whether it's a hilarious anecdote or a touching memory.
Theatre maker Gary McNair has been collecting these stories for the past seven years, compiling them into a one-man show that celebrates Sir Billy and his impact on the people of Scotland. Joined on stage by musicians Jill O'Sullivan and Simon Liddell, the production is simple yet powerful in its delivery. With each story, Gary takes us chronologically through Billy's life, as told by those who have met him, worked with him, or simply admired him from afar.
What's truly remarkable about this performance is how it captures the essence of everyday conversations and the quirks of our storytelling. Gary delivers each story with precision and humor, paying attention to the mistakes and tangents that often come up in our retellings, as well as the various accents of Scotland. One particular heartwarming story stands out, as a man shares how Billy's comedy helped him through a difficult time in his life.
Throughout the show, Gary also shares his own personal experience of meeting Billy, recounting how he felt like he was talking to an old friend despite never having met him before. By the end, the audience is left with a profound appreciation for Billy and his impact on Scottish culture. As Ellie Forbes eloquently puts it, "the cumulative effect is a performance that is both poignant and colourful, a testament to a man who continues to bring joy to so many today."
If you're in Edinburgh this August, be sure to catch "Dear Billy" at the Assembly Rooms - Music Hall on August 20, 22-25. And for more reviews of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, be sure to subscribe to Scottish Field and stay up to date on all the latest performances.
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