Splinters, the theatrical troupe consisting of the actors John Shedden, Finlay McLean and Anna Hepburn, returns to Orkney in March. A joint promotion between the Gable End Theatre, Hoy, and Woodwick House, Evie, will offer the chance to see their latest production, 'Scot of the Anarchic'.

The last time they were here, in 2003, they presented 'For the Islands I Sing', a medley from the work of George Mackay Brown, deeply affecting and shot through with humour. Those lucky enough to have seen it will remember it well and warmly.

Now they turn their attention to the writings of Ian Crichton Smith, who combined a life as a leading twentieth-century Scottish poet with being one of his country¹s most acute and kindly humorists.

Crichton Smith was born in Glagow, but grew up in the isle of Lewis among the 'Wee Frees'. Fortunately they only succeeded in sharpening his scepticism and sense of humour.

He produced along with a prolific body of poetry many stories centring on the character of his alter ego, Murdo Maclean. Murdo has many an uplifting, moving and comic tale to tell of characters of the Highlands and the Western Isles - Sam Spaid, Mrs Napoleon, Jimmy the Magician and One-eyed Angus among others.

Splinters can be expected to make their adventures into a fine theatrical entertainment that speaks out for the individual. No one with an interest in theatre should miss them.

'Scot of the Anarchic' plays at the Gable End Theatre at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, 8th March. It will be at Woodwick House the following night, the 9th, also at 8 p.m. For ticket details phone 01856 791200 for the Gable End
and 01856 751330 for Woodwick House.