THE HIDDEN JEWEL
Unique theatre production in Oban this July
This summer, as part of the Homecoming Scotland programme of celebrations, Oban will play host to a unique theatre event,
The Hidden Jewel, from 17 to 23 July 2009.
The Hidden Jewel is better known as The Brooch of Lorne and is the main focus of this unusual outdoor walking theatre event. The Brooch was believed to have been taken from the cloak of Robert the Bruce by loyal MacDougall clansmen at the Battle of Dalrigh, near Tyndrum, in 1306.
This iconic jewel of the MacDougall Clan - fashioned from pure Scottish silver, crystal, and Scottish freshwater pearls - is of national significance, with the original being securely kept at all times in a bank vault.
The Hidden Jewel drama follows the fortunes of the Brooch through the ages – from its seizure in 1306 and on through dangerous times of sieges and loss through the centuries. The narrative reflects its absence in Campbell hands while the Chief’s family fought to retain their lands and castles, and into gentler times when Queen Victoria admired and rather coveted the Brooch.
The Hidden Jewel will be performed over 7 nights at Dunollie, Oban, from 17 and 23 July 2009, as part of the Year of Homecoming programme.
It is written and performed by The Walking Theatre Company, director Sadie Dixon Spain, a professional actress who worked in London for many years prior to moving with her family to Glendaruel on the Cowal peninsula.
The audience will be divided into groups and led to various venues – such as the castle – where they will play an active part in the unfolding drama for example as besiegers or clansmen, or torch bearers. Youth drama groups from Oban and Lismore will participate in all The Hidden Jewel performances.
Tickets for The Hidden Jewel are on sale online through PayPal, and bookings for the formal dinner can also be made online.
The Hidden Jewel event has been generously supported by many organisations, including Event Scotland, Argyll and Bute Council, MacDougall McCallum Heritage Foundation of America, Cuan Mhor Restaurant.
As well as the theatre event, other events will take place throughout this special Homecoming week. A highlight for the worldwide Clan MacDougall will be Wednesday 22 July, when the Clan MacDougall Society of North America will present Madam MacDougall of MacDougall, 31st Chief, with a new flag to fly above the castle. Eleven feet long and two and half feet wide, it is a reproduction of a medieval-style banner. A formal dinner will be held on the same evening at the Argyllshire Gathering Halls followed by a ceilidh dance.
More details....