The Last Queen of Scotland @ Underbelly
Exploring the expulsion of Ugandan-Asians from Uganda in 1972, The Last Queen of Scotland reflects a largely under-represented time in Scotland's recent social history, based on playwright Jaimini Jethwa’s own life experience
The Last Queen of Scotland's greatest strength lies in the immersive power of its storytelling: through the central character, played by Rehanna MacDonald, we are transported to Dundee and Uganda in a colourful and vivid feat of imagination. MacDonald gives a captivating performance as the central character – energetic and expressive, she tells her story with humour and warmth, as well as skilfully embodying an array of other characters along the way. Indeed, the play excels as essentially a one person show: it feels so vivid and full of people that it's easy to forget there is only one key performer. The wonderful music and vocals delivered by Patricia Panther give the play amazing texture, depth and colour without which it would not be nearly as captivating.
Directed by Stellar Quines' Jemima Levick, the play takes a playful and energetic approach to a serious subject. Overall, an enjoyable yet informative and insightful hour of theatre – one leaves wishing for more unacknowledged stories such as this to be brought to the stage.
The Last Queen of Scotland, Underbelly, Cowgate, Aug 10-15, 17-26 Aug, 6.50pm