Ancient mythology and modern storytelling collide in a contemporary exploration of the legacy of colonialism and slavery by award-winning Scottish Kenyan storyteller Mara Menzies.
A dying mother gives her daughter a box containing three clues to a priceless treasure. This sets in motion a journey filled with humour and tragedy that considers the importance of ritual, identity and belonging.
Creative Team
Written & Performed by Mara Menzies
Directed by Isla Menzies
Dramaturgy by Francisca da Silveiras
Lighting Design by Maria MacDonald
Sound Design by Dave House
Assistant Produced by Andrew Jeffrey
Produced by Mhari Robinson
Blood and Gold reviews:
“A glittering, beautiful and disturbing one-hour monologue by one of Scotland’s leading theatre artists of African heritage”
★★★★ The Scotsman (full review)
“an exquisite piece of storytelling… performed with choreographic grace and a mesmerising delivery”
★★★★ The Guardian (review)
“The subtextual discussion of subjects like colonialism, slavery, economic migration and racism are apparent for all who are attuned to them, within stories which are beautiful and engrossing in their own right.”
★★★★ Fest Mag (full review)
“A thrilling performer and an even better writer.”
★★★★ Three Weeks (full review)
“There’s a warmth to Menzies’ performance, drawing out much from the crowd as she uses their suggestions to create a deeper connection with her tale. Our favourite foods, fairytales and even our voices become part of the glistening tapestry she weaves.”
★★★★ The Skinny (full review)
“…this is a sparkling, often joyous excursion… this is probably the best thing Mara Menzies has done yet – which is already saying something.”
★★★★ All Edinburgh Theatre (full review)
“There are riddles, there is dancing, but above all, there is the story, a fairytale-like odyssey that takes us to the land of the dead and back again.”
★★★★ Edinburgh Festivals Magazine (full review)
“Her mesmerising voice and recurrent interactions with the audience have them hanging on her every word, whilst she takes her listeners on a fascinating journey across distant and mysterious lands, before returning, full circle, to where it all began.”
★★★★ Everything Theatre (full review)
“Mara Menzies proves that stories have power; they have value.
Blood and Gold is a fitting new chapter in Scotland’s storytelling tradition.”
★★★★★ Deadline News (full review)
Previous performances:
2019
July, Preview at Byre Theatre, St Andrews
1-26 August at Scottish Storytelling Centre as part of Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Made in Scotland showcase.
2020
15 February at Glad Cafe, Glasgow as part of The Workers’ Theatre Festival: Something Has To Happen
Promotional photography: Robin Mair
Production photography: Kat Gollock
Blood and Gold is available for touring.
Please email to request a tour pack.
Scale of Venue: small scale
Company size: 2 on the road
Freight: N/A
Length of show: 60mins. No interval
Description: Text based.
Language: English
Suitability: 12+
Costs: Please contact us for more information on pricing.
To book a show or ask for additional information, please contact:
Producer, Mhari Robinson
+44 (0) 7534 942 255
mharirobinson [at] gmail [dot] com