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Plans to repeat 'Tell Wiz'

Well-loved musical show to be performed again

Tell Wiz, an original Shetland musical written almost entirely in Shetland dialect, was first staged in 1958. It ran for 10 nights, and was a tremendous  success. The music was written by Ronnie Mathewson and the lyrics by Harry Kay – a formidable partnership. The songs and the script depict scenes from the history of Lerwick, such as the departure of the Greenland whalers, the herring fishing days, and the Bakers’ Well.

Shetland ForWirds would now like to stage Tell Wiz once more – in May 2015, if all goes according to plan.

Committee member Christian Tait, former musical director for many Islesburgh productions, is keen to take up the baton again for the Tell Wiz revival. ‘The music is wonderful,’ says Christian, ‘and we are very grateful to the late Billy Kay for his permission to use the material, and for all his help and encouragement.’

Shetland ForWirds have approached Islesburgh Drama Group to help in the staging of the show. President of the group, Morag Mouat, said that it would be a great challenge to present such a historic Shetland production and they were delighted to be involved. Morag herself will produce the show.

The new Tell Wiz, however, will not be an in-house Islesburgh production. Casting is open to all who would like to be involved. Good actors and singers (of all ages) are obviously needed, but not all singers need to be soloists! There will be opportunities backstage as well.

If you would like to be involved in this exciting project, or for more information, please get in touch with Christian Tait (01595 693895), Morag Mouat (01595 695952), or Laureen Johnson (01806 588252); or e-mail Shetland ForWirds info@shetlanddialect.org.uk  

 

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