Sometimes it is spooky how art comes to life.
More than two years ago, Glenn McGinnis had a crazy thought after a rainy weekend in August wreaked havoc on the Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games.
“I wondered what would happen if the games had to be cancelled because of poor turnout due to bad weather,” said McGinnis.
He fleshed out a plot line that focused on a publicity stunt festival organizers cook up to help save the games.
The result is an hilarious theatrical production set to hit the stage at Fergus Grand Theatre July 18 to 20.
The plot of Arch! Ay! Kilts ‘n Cabers centres around three Fergus men who took the three top prizes at the heavyweight events more than 30 years ago.
The three are lured out of retirement by local council to compete again despite the fact they are too old and exceed the healthy weight category, and, says McGinnis, “they have to compete against the largest human being ever to strap on cleats.”
Once he completed the script, McGinnis pitched the show as a fundraiser to the games organizers and they jumped at the chance.
Mary Lloyd, part of the event organizer team at Ralph Basset Associates, said, “We are thrilled our games is the setting for this comedy.”
Since the show is set in Fergus, McGinnis took the opportunity to poke some fun at some notable locals. Some are mentioned in the script while others are being “worked on” to accept cameos in the production.
The production will also feature original music and dance. Songs like, What Does A Scotsman Wear Under His Kilt? were written by McGinnis with music by Kailey Thomas.
Since many of the song lyrics began emerging as the script was being written, Thomas spent the past year polishing and improving the rough notes.
“In all candour,” said McGinnis, “the rehearsals thus far have been an absolute blast.”
That’s not surprising given the three caber tossers are played by Bob Fleischauer, Andrew White and Neil Dunsmore.
Eclectic cast of locals
The eclectic cast also includes students, retired teachers and a social worker; all local, of course.
“I’m counting on you, Fergus,” said McGinnis. “Auch! Ay! will be a great way to celebrate both the summer and our beloved Highland Games.”
Tickets for the show are $20 each and are available now by calling the Fergus Grand Theatre box office at 519-787 -1981 or online by visiting www.fergusgrandtheatre.ca.
