Drama support for schools teaching Gaelic as an additional language
Fèisean nan Gàidheal is to offer Gaelic words and phrases in dramatic form to children in schools which choose to teach Gaelic as an additional language, through a new traditional story-based play entitled Tilley Tales.
With funding from Bòrd na Gàidhlig and Creative Scotland, Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s Dràma Officer, Angus Macleod, has written and directs Tilley Tales, an adaptation of the original Gaelic version, Sgeulachdan an Tilley, which toured Gaelic medium schools in Highland last term. Staff and pupils welcomed the production and Fèisean nan Gàidheal hopes the new performance will interest school staff keen to deliver quality Gaelic sessions to their classes.
The play is produced through Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s formal education service, Fèisgoil, and will be taken on the road by actor-musician duo Fergus Munro, who also appeared in the Sgeulachdan an Tilley production, and Peter MacPherson. They will tour for two weeks from Monday 7th November visiting primary schools in Inverness and the surrounding area.
A keen singer and songwriter, this is local performer Peter’s first foray into drama and, as he explains, the opportunity is very welcome:
“Living in Inverness I am keen to improve my own Gaelic learning and opportunities to work alongside Gaelic-speaking artists really helps build my own confidence in using the language naturally. Fergus and I are both keen Gaelic singers and are particularly enjoying the traditional song element of the play.”
Shona MacLennan, Chief Executive Officer, Bòrd na Gàidhlig said: “Bòrd na Gàidhlig is delighted to support this project which builds on the aims of the National Gaelic Language Plan to normalise Gaelic. This drama will be a great resource for all the children learning Gaelic as an additional language. We wish them well and are sure it will be enjoyed by all.”
For more information on Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s drama work, known as Sporan in settings where Gaelic is an additional language, please contact Angus Macleod, Drama Officer, Fèisean nan Gàidheal on 01463 225559 or by e-mailing angus@feisean.scot.
