Scottish Theatre Highlights: May 2022
Big topics dominate Scottish stages in May, from considered portrayals of mental health issues to thought-provoking political sagas
The brilliant Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival, now in its 16th year, is back this month with events taking place across Scotland. Theatrical highlights include One Mississippi, a verbatim play about childhood experiences and masculinity, from Revolution Days playwright Mariem Omari (touring across Scotland until 14 May). Also check out The White Chip, a funny and honest look at addiction in theatre (various locations, 18-20 May) and Though This Be Madness, Skye Loneragan's portrayal of motherhood, sisterhood and mental illness (The Studio, Edinburgh, 21-22 May).
In Glasgow, head to the Tron to see the UK premiere of Who Killled My Father, the stage adaptation of French author Édouard Louis' novel (11-14 May). All Of Me, a sequel of sorts to Caroline Horton's 2013 hit show about anorexia, Mess, also at the Tron, sounds equally tender and hard-hitting (19 May).
Dundee Rep will host the world premiere of Michael Burnett and Joseph McCann's new black comedy/gambling-themed thriller The Bookies (3-21 May). The venue will also receive a homecoming this month in the form of Joan Clevillé's hit dance production Antigone, Interrupted, returning to Dundee Rep after a triumphant, UK wide tour (26-27 May).
In Edinburgh, don't miss Red Ellen, Caroline Bird's new play about unstoppable socialist trailblazer Ellen Wilkinson (The Lyceum, 4-21 May). Find out more in our interview with Bird.
Last but not least, if you're planning a spring getaway this month, why not check out the Dumfries & Galloway Arts Festival? The programme includes Tickbox, a one-woman, bilingual play in Urdu and Scots (23-24 May), and Egg, Paper Doll Militia's aerial theatre production about female fertility, sexuality and choice (29 May).