B: Plays, Dramatisations and Film Scripts

This play was broadcast by the B.B.C. from Aberdeen, performed by the Aberdeen Radio Players, 24th. September 1929.

Typescript held at the National Library of Scotland. An allegorical one-act play indicating, through the medium of the supernatural, the continuing disintegration, from the '45 to the present, of Gaelic culture at the hands of the English, although with a change of emphasis from military to financial prowess. One of his better plays.

Typescript held at the National Library of Scotland - two of one version plus one of a variant. This three act play was performed by the Scottish National Players for five performances, commencing on the 8th. October 1929. Cast of the Glasgow Production: Lachie Macdonald - Chas. Brookes Isaac Gordon - Tom Maley Mrs Geddes - Miss Anne Rae Constable - Archibald Henderson Helen MacDonald - Miss Meg Buchannan MacDonald of Corrie - H.C. Stark Mrs MacLennan - Miss Catherine Fletcher Iosbail MacDonald of Corrie - Miss Grace McChlery Tim Murphy - James Anderson Jack Munro - Alan Mackill Mrs Reilley - Miss Heston Paton Brown Angus Ross - James Gibson Denver - Moultrie Kelsall An ambitious work concerning an urban shop owner who goes back to his primeval homeland for a poaching holiday. The "pull" of one's roots and the artificiality of modern city life are shown. This aspect was to be a recurrent theme throughout Gunn's work. There are close similarities between this work and the contemporary, serialised, novel "Poaching at Grianan", and the later play "Beyond the Cage" is obviously developed from this work.

Typescript held at the National Library of Scotland. One act play written under the pseudonym of Dane McNeil. Three journalists in a Glasgow public house discuss a murder which has taken place in the vicinity. Into the discussion is woven a commentary on the state of Gaeldom and the differing outlook of Highland and Lowland scots. This play was offered to the B.B.C. 17th. May 1934, but was not taken up. Their representative reporting internally: This affects me in the same way as Gunn's other plays. I feel rather ashamed and sorry that he should do it at all. The novel is his form, and he seems unable to convey his ideas clearly or make his points in dialogue. From our point of view, his plays have the additional disadvantage of depending so much on expressive gesture to convey the implied but unspoken meaning. I don't think that this play could conceivably ever be broadcast; it lacks form and rhythm; it is inarticulate, and has a saddening frustration and impotence; it is just dumb as the "Talkies" have it - Laocoon Gunn struggling with the dramatic Sea Serpent.

In the National Library of Scotland there are pages of typescript and manuscript relating to a three act play with the above title. From accompanying notes it seems this was performed, probably in a school, college or university, on or around the above date. It seems probable that Gunn either wrote this or collaborated in its writing. The play, which calls for a knowledge of traditional Gaelic songs and prayers, is set at the time of the '45 and appears to have covered the making, wearing and subsequent banning of the tartan.

[A] (8), B (8), 16 leaves. Stiff paper cover, pasted to pp. [1] and [32], with cover title: SCOTTISH NATIONAL PLAYS SERIES NO. 9 | [cut] | Back Home | by Neil M. Gunn | [at bottom, to the left] ONE SHILLING NET. p. [2] This series of plays is published | under the auspices of the Saint | Andrew Society (Glasgow); p. [3] SCOTTISH NATIONAL PLAYS SERIES No 9; p. [4] Copyright notice, note on performing rights and fee, p. [5] Title page; p. [6] Publishers notice; p. [7] NOTE [from the Publishers]; p. [8] Characters; p. [9], 10 - 26 text; pp. [27] - [29] Publisher's advertisements; p. [30] - [31] blank. On back cover: [cut] BONE & HULLEY | 25 Dundas Street, Glasgow [in rectangular frame of dots].

This play was later collected in: The Best One-Act Plays of 1931, selected by J. W. Marriott | George G. Harrop & Co. Ltd | London | 1932 | pp. 271 - 285. Broadcast, with slight textual variations, 16th. August 1937 on the Scottish Regional Programme of the B.B.C., producer Andrew Stewart, duration twenty five minutes. Gaelic version broadcast under the title "Tilleadh Dhachaidh" on the B.B.C. Scottish Home Service, 13th. March 1947. producer Hugh MacPhee.

Typescript of the English version held at the B.B.C. Glasgow. The first one act play to see national publication. The basic theme was explored earlier in prose in: The Man Who Came Back | The Scots Magazine | Dundee | March 1928 | pp. 419 - 429. The play deals with the failure attributed to persons who choose to return from 'better' posts in cities to their native land and employment. The novel "The Drinking Well" further expands the theme.

This play was later collected in: Scottish One Act Plays | J. M. Reid, ed. | The Porpoise Press | Edinburgh | 1935 | pp. 117 - 140. It was then issued as an offprint of the above by: The Porpoise Press | Edinburgh | 24th. February 1938.

A humorous discussion amongst the members of a drama society who are trying to decide on a play for production. Under the surface the play becomes a commentary on the state of Scotland. In concept this work is similar to "Raw Material". It was offered to the B.B.C., 6th. November 1936 but there is no record of it having been produced. It is however deported to have been staged in Inverness.

This play was subsequently broadcast by the B.B.C. on the Scottish Regional Programme, 19th. June 1936, produced by Andrew Stewart, duration twenty five minutes. The play was later issued as an individual one act play by: Nelson (Nelson's Plays for Amateurs No. 2) | London | 1939 - Seeİseparate entry. This play was later collected in: North Light | Winifred Bannister, ed. | William MacLellan | Glasgow | 1947 | pp. 44 - 61.

Play

Andrew Stewart

B.B.C. Scottish Regional Programme

Twenty five minutes

The typescript of the radio version is held at the B.B.C., Glasgow. An old lady, living in a crofting community, is grief stricken as she sees her grandson, embodying the future of the area, emigrate. As she croons a Gaelic lament, her home is invaded by English folk, taking advantage of Highland hospitality, collecting old songs on tape for posterity. In her distress, they press her to sing.

[A] (8), I (8), 16 leaves. 2 blank leaves; Title page; reverse blank; Text pp. 119 - 140, 2 blank leaves. Bound with paper wrapper, pasted to spine and flapped round the first and last leaves, in orange printed in black. On front cover: NEIL M. GUNN | [line] | CHOOSING | A PLAY | [ital] A comedy | [ital] of Community Drama | [line] | The Porpoise Press. On front flap, in bottom R.H. corner, Is. | Net. On back flap, at top - Advertisement for the Porpoise Press. On back cover: THE FABER LIBRARY | List of 39 volumes.

The play first appeared in: The Scots Magazine | Dundee | May 1935 | pp. 99 - 112. See that entry for notes. This is a reissue of pp. 117 - 140 of: Scottish One-Act Plays | J. M. Reid, ed. | The Porpoise Press | Edinburgh | 1935

A one act play on the 'Caledonian Electricity Power Bill' and its non adoption on environmental grounds. Gunn's conclusion is that this decision runs counter to the long term interests of the Highlands and its people.

This play was later issued by: Nelson (Nelson's Plays for Amateurs No.11) | London | 1939

A bitter play about the plight of the herring fisheries of the North East. With the fall off in catches and the poorer prices, difficulties were experienced with meeting repayments on the bank loan for the purchase of the boat.

A one act play based on the difficulties encountered by Telford in his construction of the Caledonian Canal. Gunn said of this work: "The moral is that of the engineer who will go on building his bridges though wars should blow them sky-high."

[A] (14), 14 leaves. p. [1] NELSON'S PLAYS FOR AMATEURS | [ital] General Editor: Nora Ratcliff, M.A. | [ornament] | [space] | OLD MUSIC | [space] | [ital] No. 2; p. [2] [ital] Copyright: Neil M. Gunn. 1939; p. [3] Title page; p. [4] Characters; pp. 5 - 25 Text; p. 26 Acting notes; p. [27] PRINTED IN GREAT BRITAIN AT | THE PRESS OF THE PUBLISHERS; p. [28] blank. 5 1/8" x 7 1/4", stiff paper cover, printed on the front: OLD MUSIC | by | NEIL M. GUNN | [across bottom] NELSON'S PLAYS FOR AMATEURS 1/= net

This play later collected in: North Light | Winifred Bannister, ed. | William MacLellan | Glasgow | 1947 | pp. 44 - 61.

Play

Andrew Stewart

B.B.C. Scottish Regional Programme

Twenty five minutes

This play first appeared in: The Scots Magazine | Dundee | July 1935 | pp. 254 - 266. See entry under that date for details.

[A] (16), 16 leaves. p. [1] NELSON'S PLAYS FOR AMATEURS | [ital] General Editor: Nora Ratcliff, M. A. | [ornament] | [space] | NET RESULTS | [space] | [ital] No. 11; p. [2] Copyright notices; p. [3] Title page; p. [4] Characters; pp. 5 - 29 Text; p. 30 Stage plan; p. 31 Acting notes; p. [32] PRINTED IN GREAT BRITAIN AT | THE PRESS OF THE PUBLISHER 5 1/8" X 7 1/4", stiff paper cover printed on the front: NET | RESULTS | by | NEIL M. GUNN | [across the bottom] NELSON'S PLAYS FOR AMATEURS 1/= net

This play was first published in: The Scots Magazine | Dundee | July 1938 | pp. 289 - 303. See entry under that date for details.

A typescript bearing his Cannich address, presumably prepared in 1956 at the time of the approach to the B.B.C., is held at the National Library of Scotland. The novel was published 11th. April 1940. This three act play was, to the best of my knowledge, never produced. It was offered to the B.B.C., but was declined. From an accompanying letter to the B.B.C. dated 11th. January 1956 it transpires that the novel which bears the same name, and follows the same plot, was developed from this play. Gunn writes: "I once wrote a play on Second Sight, and not knowing what to do with it I turned it into a novel." The play was also unsuccessfully offered to the Wilson Barrett Ltd. company, who produced "Beyond the Cage"

Dramatisation

Moultrie R Kelsall

B.B.C. Scottish Home Service

Thirty minutes

Typescripts held at the B.B.C. Glasgow and the National Library of Scotland. This piece was written especially for radio and was intended to highlight the homeland: its countryside, people, and occupations. It was written in play form with the various regions, and the sea, being personified. It falls into three parts: the first an argument between the regions as to their respective attractions; the second recounts the hazardous sea journey involved in taking sheep to summer grazing on rocky islets; and the third in conversations between servicemen on leave, highlighting what they look forward to doing.

Extracts later appeared in the Stornoway Gazette and West Coast Advertiser.

Dramatisation

Moultrie R. Kelsall

B.B.C. Scottish Home Service

Thirty minutes

Typescripts held at the B.B.C. script library (plays) London, B.B.C. Glasgow, and the National Library of Scotland, who also hold scripts entitled "Drama in Lewis" and "Lewis in War Time". These are both earlier versions of the same text. This specially commissioned piece commented on the effect of the war on the islanders of Lewis. It was produced in play form. The programme was generally well received, with favourable press comment.

This was produced in three instalments: Vol. 26, No. 1300, p. 2. 2nd January 1942 Vol. 26, No. 1301, p. 2. 9th. January 1942 Vol. 26, No. 1302, p. 2. 16th. January 1942 These are extracts from the B.B.C. broadcast of the same title 10th. December 1941.

Dramatisation

Moultrie R Kelsall

B.B.C. Scottish Home Service

Forty minutes

Typescripts held at the B.B.C. script library (plays) London, B.B.C. Glasgow, and the National Library of Scotland, who also hold a script entitled "The Northern Highlands Today", an earlier version of the same text. In play form this consists of discussions between Highland P.O.W.'s, en route to a new camp in Bavaria. They talk of their homeland with particular reference to economic/social conditions. Use is made of 'flash backs' to conversations previously held in their homes.

A copy of the commentary is held at the National Library of Scotland. This film was produced by "Rotha Films" - Paul Rotha Productions Ltd. - and deals with possible plans for post war development in the Highlands.

Play

Moultrie R. Kelsall

B.B.C. Scottish Home Service

Thirty minutes

Typescripts held at the B.B.C. script library (plays) London, B.B.C. Glasgow, and the National Library of Scotland. A dramatisation by Gunn of the short story of the same name which first appeared in: The Scots Magazine | Dundee | January 1928 | pp. 261 - 268. This was, perhaps, not too well received - in the B.B.C.'s files is a note from the producer relating to the later "Sun and Moon" which states: "Its a lot better then 'The Black Woollen Gloves' (it would need to be)."

This broadcast was repeated 6th. February 1947. A new production was performed 28th. March 1956, and repeated 29th. June 1960. The new production was produced by Finlay J, MacDonald for the B.B.C. Scottish Home Service - duration thirty five minutes (repeat forty minutes).

Play

Moultrie R. Kelsall

B.B.C. Scottish Home Service

Thirty minutes

Typescript held at the B.B.C. script library (plays) London, B.B.C. Glasgow, and the National Library of Scotland. A dramatisation by Gunn of the short story of the same name which first appeared in: The Scots Magazine | Dundee | November 1942 | pp. 83 - 99.

Typescript held at the National Library of Scotland. This play, which can be dated from correspondence, was produced with a view to it being performed by the B.B.C., but was never used. The title of the play relates to the folk dances of the old Highland communities, which have largely been lost. A chapter of "Highland Pack" entitled "Dancing in the Highlands" followed the same theme.

Typescript held at the National Library of Scotland. The library hold a further typescript, originally entitled "A Poaching Holiday" but altered to read "Beyond the Cage". This is not the same text as the play produced but is an interim stage between "The Ancient Fire" and the final production. This three act play was produced by the Wilson Barrett Company for the Edinburgh Festival of 1952 (25th. - 30th. August) but was premiered at the Alhambra Theatre, Glasgow on the 18th. August. Cast of the Edinburgh Festival Production: Rory MacDonald - Wilfred Carter Angus Ross - Frank Raymond Isaac Drobny - John Schlesinger Tim Murphy - Leon Sinden Mrs Geddes - Edith MacArthur Mrs Paterson - Freda Fergusson Helen MacDonald - Ruth Porcher The Policeman - Walter Carr The MacDonald of Corriemore - Stuart Black Mrs MacLennan - Molly Francis The voice of young Helen - Caroline Raitt The plot of this play closely follows that of "The Ancient Fire" - see notes against that entry.

Dramatisation

Robin Richardson

B.B.C. Scottish Home Service

One hour

Typescript held at B.B.C. Glasgow and the National Library of Scotland. A production in the B.B.C. "Heritage" series (No. 18). An article by Gunn relating to this production appeared as: The Tragedy of the Highland Clearances | The Radio Times (Scottish Edition) | London | 10th. December 1954. A reflection on the clearances presented as a dramatic conversation.

Dramatisation

Robin Richardson

B.B.C. Scottish Home Service

One hour

Typescripts held at the B.B.C. Edinburgh and the National Library of Scotland. A production in the B.B.C. "Heritage" series (No. 23). An investigation into the history and making of Scotland's national drink, told in a dramatic format,

Dramatisation

Robin Richardson

B.B.C. Scottish Home Service

Forty five minutes

Typescripts held at the B.B.C. Glasgow and the National Library of Scotland. An article about this broadcast appeared as: The Magic of the Western Isles | The Radio Times (Scottish Edition) | London | 3rd. August 1956 | Vol. 132, No. 1708, p. 9. A description of the Hebrides and their history seen from the sea - that connecting highway. The work is in the form of a dramatic conversation.

Dramatisation

Finlay J. MacDonald

B.B.C. Scottish Home Service

One hour

Typescripts held at the B.B.C. script library (plays) London and the National Library of Scotland. An article about this broadcast appeared as: The Boy and the Salmon | The Radio Times (Scottish Edition) | London | 24th. May 1957 | Vol. 135, No. 1750, p. 6. A dramatised extract from "The Atom of Delight" in which the boy, Gunn, catches a large salmon with his bare hands.

Dramatisation

Tom Allen

B.B.C. Scottish Home Service (Schools)

Twenty minutes

Typescripts held at the B.B.C. Edinburgh and the National Library of Scotland. A production in the B.B.C. series "This is my Country" (Living in the Highlands - I ). The story of the 'Crofters Charter' of 1886, told as a dramatic conversation.

Dramatisation

Tom Allen

B.B.C. Scottish Home Service (Schools)

Twenty minutes

Typescripts held at the B.B.C. Edinburgh and the National Library of Scotland. A production in the B.B.C. series "This is my Country" (Living in the Highlands II ). A dramatised exposition of the sport.

Dramatisation

Tom Allen

B.B.C. Scottish Home Service (Schools)

Twenty minutes

Typescripts held at the B.B.C. Edinburgh and the National Library of Scotland. A production in the B.B.C. series "This is my Country" (Living in the Highlands III ). In this play the changes in the Highland way of life within one generation are highlighted.

Typescript held at the National Library of Scotland. This film script was produced for Associated British Pictures Ltd., but was never proceeded with. The script bears only the name Neil M. Gunn but, from correspondence between Gunn and A.B.P. Ltd., it is clear that Maurice Walsh collaborated; his style being evident in some parts of the work. This is a romantic thriller centred on Highland whisky production, both official and otherwise. There are superficial likenesses to "The Poaching at Grianan", "The Ancient Fire" and "Beyond the Cage". The work also includes much of the subject matter of the B.B.C. production "Whisky" and the smuggling scene from "The Well at the World's End".

Typescript held at the National Library of Scotland. This is the commentary for a film produced by 'The Films of Scotland Committee' for 'Long John' whisky. The date quoted is that which appears on the script, although their is a story outline/shooting script attached dated 1958. The film relates to the building of a new whisky distillery, and attendant workers village, at Tormore, Speyside. The official opening took place 7th. October 1960, the programme for which contained "The Long John Story" which, although unacknowledged, was also written by Gunn. 'Long John' needed the assistance of someone eminent in Scottish letters who also had a knowledge of distilling. Gunn was employed by them as a consultant on Scottish matters for some years, during which time this film was made, John Mackie, who worked for the company, recalls taking Gunn to sample the water of the burn which supplies the distillery before building commenced. He is reported as saying "You cannot fail to get good whisky from this water." This is taken from letters between Mackie and Gunn, specifically one dated 8th. April 1960, and a further extract from this letter appeared in: Glimpses of Gunn | Ann Yule and Alan Haldane | Neil M. Gunn Memorial Trust | Dingwall | 1990 | p. 5. The central character, Donald, pays visits also to show local fishing, deer stalking and Highland games, so as to give a picture of Highland traditions. Many of the comments regarding distilling follow patterns used elsewhere in Gunn's work, principally "Whisky and Scotland".

A film of this title was made by Anvil Films (Scotland) Ltd., which correspondence dates to 1962. On deposit with the National Library of Scotland is an "article" with the same title which I suspect is the commentary for this film. At around the same time it is believed that the same company made a film called "Highland Folk Museum", but I have been unable to obtain any further details.

Typescript held at the National Library of Scotland. This piece looks like something intended for radio, T.V., or film. The "Pipe Bands in Action" seems to be the instruction for musical accompaniment. It is followed by Iona (Iona Boat Song). It may have been a commentary on a film of the World Pipe Band Contest and the gathering of the clans which took place on 25th. June 1966, and which is referred to in the text.

Typescript held at the National Library of Scotland. The typescript, and an accompanying letter to Mr Clark of the Associated British Picture Corporation, set out some ideas for a film set in Majorca. There is no evidence that the idea was pursued.