Scottish theatre classic, The Steamie, is brought to glorious life at His Majesty's Theatre this week. Image - courtesy of Christopher Bowen
For some reason, The Steamie - the Scottish classic once described by its writer Tony Roper as “the play that naebody wanted” - had somehow passed me by.
So, as one of Scotland’s best-loved plays returned to Aberdeen this week, I finally got the chance to see what all the fuss was about when it took to the stage at His Majesty’s Theatre last night as part of Aberdeen Comedy Festival, supported by Aberdeen Inspired.
Set in a bustling Glasgow washhouse on Hogmanay in the 1950s, Tony Roper’s much-loved Scottish classic follows Magrit, Dolly, Doreen and Mrs Culfeathers as they tackle the final wash of the year.
But between the washing, wringing and folding, there’s plenty of time for laughter, gossip, secrets and dreams of a better future.
At its heart, The Steamie is a celebration of friendship and community. Almost 40 years after it was first performed, the warmth and humour of Roper’s writing still shine through, while the lives of the women at its centre offer a touching glimpse into working-class Scotland at a time of enormous social change.
The Steamie, at HMT, is full of song and laughter. Image - courtesy of Christopher Bowen
This latest production brings together a terrific cast, with Ali Cleland as Magrit, Louise McCarthy as Dolly, Eden Barrie as Doreen and Lesley Mackie as Mrs Culfeathers, alongside HMT panto fan favourite Paul J Corrigan as washhouse handyman Andy.
The characters bounce wonderfully off one another, delivering the familiar Glasgow humour and quick-fire observations that audiences have come to love.
But beneath the laughs are some genuinely moving moments, particularly as the women's conversations turn to family, loneliness, money and their hopes for what lies ahead.
It’s that combination of comedy and tenderness that has helped make The Steamie such an enduring part of Scottish theatre - with Maggie’s story about making mince one of the best-know comic scenes.
Heartwarming, funny and nostalgic, The Steamie is one of Scotland's best-loved plays. Image - courtesy of Christopher Bowen
There is extra poignancy surrounding this tour as this latest visit marks The Steamie writer Roper’s return to the director’s chair for the last time, making this production feel both like a celebration and a fond farewell.
With songs by David Anderson and set and costume design by Kenny Miller, the production truly transports audiences back to the warmth, bustle and camaraderie of the iconic Glasgow washhouse.
For those who have seen The Steamie before, this is a welcome opportunity to spend another Hogmanay with some old friends. For newcomers like me, it’s the perfect introduction to a Scottish theatre classic - and one I’m glad has finally made its way onto my washing line.
Warm, funny and filled with heart, The Steamie reminds us that while the world may have changed enormously since the 1950s, the importance of friendship, laughter and looking out for one another hasn't.
The Steamie is at His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen until Saturday, October 3. You can find more information, including tickets, at the Aberdeen Performing Arts website.
Aberdeen Comedy festival runs until Sunday, October 4, at venues across the city centre. You can find details, including the full programme, at the Aberdeen Performing Arts website.