Producer. Performer.
Armour: A Herstory of the Scottish Bard
Fearless Players
A new musical about the women behind the Bard. After the death of Robert Burns, his wife Jean Armour and mistress Nancy Maclehose finally meet. Female-led theatre company Fearless Players brings an all-female production dedicated to the women behind Scotland’s history. Jean and Nancy inspired some of Burns’ most famous work. After years of songs being written about them, it’s time for their story to be told. Using the well-known music of Robert Burns, woven with original composition, Herstory gives a voice to the women behind the bard.
I produced Armour and played Nancy Maclehose. Armour first appeared at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2018, where it enjoyed a sell-out run, awards nominations, and glowing reviews. It has played at venues in both Scotland and England, as well as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2019 and a short tour in 2020.
Cast
Jean Armour Lori Flannigan
Nancy Maclehose Lydia Green
Sarah Burns Nina Gray & Bethany Tennick
Creative Team
Book, Music & Lyrics Shonagh Murray
Director Melanie Bell
Musical Director Shonagh Murray
Producer Lydia Green
Operator Rachel Matthews
The Reviews
“A marvellous addition to Scottish theatre. It’s a historical drama about the perils of celebrity, with beautifully nuanced writing and acting, as well as heart-lifting music. It’s also gloriously funny,”
“The experience of watching these two passionate women of the early 19th century come alive and sing their hearts out is a serious joy.”
“Armour is an exceptionally mature piece of writing. It’s sentimental without being schmaltzy, and is underscored with a strong, feminist message... Armour oozes potential.”
“The emotive range within the score really tugs at the heartstrings, particularly in the moments when the voices overlap and blend in sweet harmony.”
“A fascinating investigation into the feelings of two of the most important women in Robert Burns’ life.”
— Scots Gay
“This production is a cauldron of potential, ringing of cultural splendour and hearth. Slip on your soft, dancing shoes and bask in the glory of these women, who loved, respected and tolerated ‘the bastard’ Burns.”
