Overview

This three-day research and development (R&D) period focused on exploring the potential for a musical adaptation of Robert Burns’ Tam O’Shanter. The project aimed to reimagine this classic narrative in a way that resonates with contemporary audiences while remaining deeply rooted in Scottish culture and the world of the poem. Through collaboration with a writer, composer, producer, and actors, I investigated the narrative structure, character development, and early musical ideas, laying the foundation for a fresh and thought-provoking interpretation of Burns’ work.

Why I Chose This Project

Adapting Tam O’Shanter has been a long-held dream of mine, initially inspired by my Grandpa, who often recited the poem to me as a child. The visceral language of the poem has always created such a vivid world for me—one I have always wanted to explore further. This personal connection to the text is paired with my passion for making Burns’ work accessible to modern audiences. I wanted to showcase that Burns’ writing, far from being twee or outdated, can be vibrant and relevant, full of depth and complexity.

One of my key motivations was to amplify the voices of the women in the poem, such as Nannie and Kate, ensuring they had their own stories and agency within the narrative. The project also provided an opportunity to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Dumfries and Galloway, where Burns lived and where I grew up. Ultimately, my goal was to turn this poem into a cohesive and compelling musical that not only entertains but challenges societal perceptions, particularly around gender dynamics and toxic masculinity.

What I Set Out to Achieve

This R&D period was designed to determine whether Tam O’Shanter could be successfully adapted into a musical. I sought to develop a strong, cohesive plot that would complement and expand on the poem, ensuring that the music, language, and story worked harmoniously. Additionally, I wanted to explore early staging ideas, particularly the use of puppetry, and establish a clear aesthetic for the production.

By focusing on depth over breadth, I hoped to emerge with a solid foundation for the project while ensuring that the ideas generated during the R&D process could support future development phases. Collaborating closely with my producer, Emma, I also aimed to plan a sustainable pathway for the musical beyond this initial stage.