Black Watch
by Gregory Burke
Gregory Burke - Black Watch
BBC Radio 3: Drama on 3
Broadcast: Sunday 10th June 2007 @ 8:45 p.m.
Based on recent interviews with former soldiers who served in Iraq, Gregory Burke's play is presented by the National Theatre of
Scotland in a specially-adapted radio version.
Celebrated for its bravery and Clan loyalties, the Black Watch has been in the vanguard of countless British military expeditions, from
Waterloo and the Somme to Kosovo. Its last great challenge before enforced amalgamation was relieving American forces at Camp
Dogwood in Iraq during 2004.
Viewed through the eyes of those on the ground, "Black Watch" reveals the experience of being part of the legendary Scottish
regiment, part of the war on terror and what it means to make the journey home again. Just as Burke's earlier play, "The Straits", gave a
voice to teenagers growing up in Gibraltar in the shadow of the Falklands War, "Black Watch" brings to the stage the resonant
experiences of some of the young soldiers who served in Iraq.
This production, by BBC Scotland Radio Drama, follows a sell-out run at the Edinburgh Festival in summer 2006, unanimous critical
acclaim and a string of awards including the South Bank Show Award for Theatre.
With Ali Craig [Stewarty], Emun Elliot [Fraz], Brian Ferguson [Cammy], Ryan Fletcher [Kenzie], Peter Forbes [Officer], Paul Higgins
[Sergeant / Writer], Paul Rattray [Granty], and Jordan Young [Rossco].
All other parts were played by members of the cast.
Original music for the production was composed and arranged by Davey Anderson.
Directed by John Tiffany.
Produced by David Ian Neville .
90 min.
Jim
