REVIEW: CIANALAS by Niamh O’Donnell, Camden Fringe show at King’s Head Theatre, Islington 30-31 July

“It’s no givin’ up if you didnae have a choice.”★★★

“Cianalas” tells the story of the people of a Scottish Highland village in 1813 facing eviction, or worse, as a result of the Laird (landlord) wanting to clear the lands.

For most, Cianalas has been the only home they’ve known, the only home they want, but as the Laird’s soldiers encroach closer and closer, they unsettle the peaceful lives of the villagers.

Ùna and Lachlann’s love story plays against the backdrop of the Highland Clearances, and the social unrest and fear for the future and loss of heritage it created. It’s a timeless tale of displacement, of people being forced to flee their homes and start afresh somewhere new due to no fault of their own, and the brutal tactics employed to drive them away from their land, such as burning crops and houses, causing death and destruction.

For balance, we also see from the perspective of two soldiers, see their humanity and how guilt and valour informs their decision to self-sacrifice in order to help the villagers.

The plot is predictable, but the dialogue feels authentic and vibrant, and the spattering of Gaelic helps convey this. The play is skilfully performed by the cast, who carry it with high energy and commitment. Particularly strong is Clara Doherty’s performance as the free-spirited Kirsty.

Supported by atmospheric lighting and traditional live music, gorgeous singing and even a ceilidh involving some of the audience, “Cianalas” is a testament to the courage and tenacity of the people of the Highlands during one of the darkest periods of their history and a call to younger generations to respect and appreciate their heritage. It’s also a lesson for our times about refugees and asylum seekers who are currently living through this very situation.

CIANALAS by Niamh O’Donnell

Presented by RamPage Theatre Company

King’s Head Theatre, Islington

30-31 July

Box Office: https://camdenfringe.com/events/cianalas/

Twitter: @rampagetheatre

Instagram: rampagetheatre

Reviewer Annie Power is the Artistic Director of Open Page Productions, and an award-winning writer and producer.