Birds of Paradise (BoP) is back out on the road in February with its new production, In An Alien Landscape, by Liverpool writer, Danny Start.

In An Alien Landscape was first developed by the company in conjunction with Playwrights’ Studio Scotland. Its then director, Julie Ellen, worked as dramaturg for Start’s residency with BoP, supporting him in the development of the text. Now, as the first Artistic Director of Greenock’s new arts centre, The Beacon, Julie is delighted to have been asked to direct the full production of the play, which will premier there on Friday 1st February 2013.

In An Alien Landscape enters the world of brain injury, consciousness, memory and creativity. Inspired by a true event, the piece uses humour and irony to tell the story.

Albie is an ordinary man who experienced ‘a scuffle with death’ which unleashed his creative genie. He can’t stop painting since he emerged from a coma. The extraordinary chaos of Albie’s life and the sound of a continuous rushing white noise in his head drives his compulsion to paint. What is happening to him? There’s no escaping who he was as his past still haunts him; but what lies ahead?

The cast includes Paul Cunningham who plays the central role of Albie. David Toole plays Klang/Dad and Morag Stark plays Suze/Dr Jill. Scottish audiences will be familiar with both Cunningham and Stark’s work. Actor and dancer, David Toole, recently performed as part of the Paralympic Opening Ceremony and has worked with CandoCo, Graeae Theatre Company, DV8 and the RSC.

In An Alien Landscape is designed by Kenny Miller with music composed by Ross Brown.

Tue 19 Feb

Mull Theatre (Druimfin)

8pm | £9/£6

01688 302828 | www.mulltheatre.com

Thu 21 Feb at 8pm

Dornie Hall (Nr Eilean Donan)

8pm | £9/£7/£3

01599 577296 | www.lochan.info

Tickets will also be available at Kyle Pharmacy or on the door on the night.

Source: Birds of Paradise