Reviews

Singin’ I’m No a Billy, He’s a Tim

Assembly Rooms
9-30 August, 15.45

The animosity between some fans of Glasgow football teams, Rangers and Celtic, goes far beyond normal sporting rivalry. Des Dillon’s perceptive play tackles sectarianism head-on, sometimes predictably but always entertainingly. Billy and Tim are locked together in a police cell on the day of an old firm match. Their extreme animosity towards each other is challenged as Harry, their jailer, raises an issue that might just be more important than football.

Excellent performances from Colin Little and Scott Kyle and Dillon’s full-on humour mitigate the less subtle aspects of the play. It may seem specific in content but Dillon’s themes are universal. As Billy and Tim edge towards some sort of mutual respect, there is cause for hope.

This production has been touring Scotland and bringing in many theatre first timers. Whether the understanding seen on stage can shift entrenched attitudes is another matter.