A PLAYWRIGHT from Port Glasgow has a cross to bear this weekend – by staging his first full production about a crucifixion on home soil.

New dark comedy ‘Fools On A Hill’ by former St Stephen’s High pupil Christopher Patrick, 26, will be on at the Beacon tomorrow night at 8pm.

It’s the fledgling writer’s first full show at the venue and stars Burnistoun actress Kirsty Strain, Stephanie Falls, from The Real Glesga Dance Mums, and Euan Cuthbertson, who starred in hit play ‘One Thinks of It All As a Dream’.

The play centres around a crucifixion and Christopher says it is a subject that raises eyebrows, especially as it is a comedy.

Christopher told the Tele: “When I say to people it’s a comedy about a crucifixion, it doesn’t sound hilarious.

“It’s not as controversial as folk think but when you talk about religion you do get a reaction to it.

“When I told my mum and dad they said ‘no, not that - of all the plays not that one’.

“But it’s quite tongue-in-cheek.

“A few folk who came to see the rehearsal readings were quite religious and found it funny.

“It’s had a few rehearsed readings and the audiences have laughed at all the right places and even some parts I never knew there was comedy.”

Burnistoun star Kirsty also gave the show the thumbs-up and says she cannot wait to perform at the Beacon tomorrow night.

She said: “It’s a great script, it’s really funny.

“People will have a good time when they come to see it.

“There’s something about Chris’s writing which is fun and doesn’t take itself seriously and that’s the whole point given the subject matter.”

Co-star Stephanie also heaped praise on the Port playwright and says the reaction so far has been great.

She said: “It’s a really strong script. I was involved in early readings at the Tron and the audience really loved it.”

Chris is delighted with the cast and also the support of everyone at the Beacon, where he also works in between writing and directing.

He said: “The cast all make me laugh at the script. I thought I’d try my hand at doing something funny and this is the first full play I’ve written.

“It’s been fantastic and the Beacon have been really supportive.

“The Beacon really supports local talent.”

For tickets visit www.beaconartscentre.co.uk or call the box office on 723723.
Photos: George Munro