В Гриноке на Хэллоуин пройдет музыкальный спектакль о шотландских ведьмовских преследованиях

A NEW musical inspired by the Scottish witch trials is set to take the stage in time for Halloween this year. Witch Hunt will be performed at The Beacon Arts Centre in Greenock on Saturday, October 31, telling the story of fear and persecution during a dark chapter in Scotland’s history. Witch Hunt explores fear, persecution, love and the strength of women standing together in the face of injustice. When a ruthless King declares war on witches, fear spreads and three women are accused, hunted, and forced to run for their lives. Pursued by a bishop hiding a dangerous secret, they must choose between silence and survival. With nowhere left to turn, the women embrace their forbidden power and uncover the truth behind the lies that threaten to destroy them. Driven by a high-energy electronic dance music score, Witch Hunt is a gripping story of persecution, rebellion, and unity, packed with soaring vocals, explosive choreography, and defiant female power. Alyson Orr, writer and producer of the show, said: "I've always been interested in the Scottish Witch Trials. "I was brought up in the south side of Glasgow, not far from Pollok, where witch trials took place in 1677. "I've read a lot of books about them and it's always been fascinated by the subject and have taken inspiration from trials from all over Scotland, including Greenock." Witch trials are known to have occurred in almost every part of Scotland over the course of the 16th and 17th centuries, following the passing of the Witchcraft Act of 1563. Inverclyde was not immune, with Inverkip a particular focus for accusations against women between 1640 and 1690; Marie Lamont, who was burned at the stake in 1662, is the best known of those who were convicted of witchcraft. Other News Youngsters hit the right notes at fun summer music camp Parents' joy as miracle baby born 15 weeks early starts out on school journey Clyde Coast Radio takes centre stage at Greenock youth playscheme The new production blends an electronic-dance music score with storytelling, vocals, and choreography to bring the past to life in a contemporary way. "We're using a modern soundtrack for the show and we hope that might reach out to a younger audience," Alyson added. Tickets for the show are £18.50 for adults and £17.50 for under-16s. To book tickets visit beaconartscentre.co.uk.