Whisky Kisses coming to Birnam and Perth

May 7 2010 by Alison Anderson, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

‘WHISKY Kisses’ – a new touring Scottish musical which includes dates at Birnam Arts Centre and Perth Theatre – has been co-written and produced by Pitlochry-born Euan Martin and directed by Perth’s Ian Grieve.

Euan (49) is the son of the late Ann Martin and the Rev Frank Martin, former minister of Pitlochry East Church. Euan was born in Aberfeldy, brought up in Pitlochry and is a former pupil of Pitlochry High School and Breadalbane Academy.

“I was probably better known as an athlete and footballer when I was at school, but I’m sure my old English teachers at Pitlochry and Breadalbane would be pleased to see I’ve put my writing skills to good use at last,” said Euan.

“In addition to his pastoral duties, my dad was a great playwright, actor and director and appeared with my mum in countless productions with the East Church Drama Group and latterly the Atholl Players. I performed in a few shows myself, but retired when I was 11.”

Ann had a starring role as Queen Victoria for several years during the annual Atholl Festival and Frank made his professional stage debut at the age of 80 in Amadeus at Pitlochry Festival Theatre.

Euan met Ian Grieve there for the first time last year.

“I had been hoping to see Whisky Galore all season and for one reason or another didn’t make it. However, by good luck, I managed to get the last ticket for the last matinee. Sitting next to me was Ian Grieve, who had got the second last ticket! From that chance meeting, Ian agreed to join the project as director of Whisky Kisses.”

Euan is co-director of Right Lines Productions, along with his colleague and fellow-writer Dave Smith. The company last appeared in Birnam in 2008 with the comedy ceilidh show ‘The Accidental Death of an Accordionist’.

Whisky Kisses has been in development for several years since coming runner-up in Highland Quest – the international competition to write a new Scottish musical.

Whisky Kisses stars internationally renowned singer Alyth McCormack, ,just back from touring the States with The Chieftains, and the musical director is Karen MacIver.

Whisky Kisses is at Birnam Arts Centre on Wednesday at 8pm (tickets from 01350 727674 or www.birnamarts.com) and Perth Theatre next Friday (May 14) at 7.45pm (01738 621031 or www.horsecross.co.uk).