Theatre at home in Govan
Looking for a flat in central Govan, with a mysterious past and some character adding fire damage? Then perhaps the Scottish National Theatre’s Allotment is the place for you.
A disused shopping unit was the unlikely scene for an interactive arts, music and theatre event last Friday. Govan’s community projects helped bring the night to life.
Over 200 people attended the fusion night which took place in the Govan Cross Shopping Centre. An empty shop was transformed into two flats, a karaoke bar and exhibition space.
Established Govan pub, Brechins Bar appeared in a boat shaped bar, designed by the GalGael Trust.
Volunteers from the Bridges Project, who help asylum seekers and refugees find work experience in Govan, helped run the night.
Creating atmosphere were LUV Projects, Starter Packs Glasgow and Impact Arts, providing a taste of their work by styling the space.
Lynne Dickie of Govan’s Impact Art said: “It’s never been done before and it has totally worked. There are lots of local people here tonight. It’s good being right there in the community.”
The inspiration for the untraditional shopping unit with no borders such as a box office was inspired by wanting an audience like a supermarket queue with a wider range of people than usually associated with theatre, embracing a blend of community and professional projects.
Allotment Producer, Angie Bual said: “The community takes ownership of what Allotment is. Govan is a really interesting area and I wanted the project to be really close and recognisable.”
Actress Morag Stark played the landlady. Artwork came from Nic Rawling, Rob Drummond, Fergus Dunnet, Claire Halleran, Lyndsey MacLeod and Lynda Radley.
Visitors were invited to take part in a paper-boat vote if they would attend an Allotment project again. Upon last sighting the yes bucket was full.
Allotment returns to Govan December 5th with a game theme.
