You can be forgiven for some scepticism on hearing that this two hour long play takes place outdoors. We are in Scotland, after all. The unusual setting though gives the acting a sense of freedom as characters rush on and off stage, and as an audience we feel more and more involved in the drama of Mary Stewart’s turmoil as darkness falls. I couldn’t help feeling a little bemused by the choice of costume; Mary herself was of course in typical period dress, but the men around her dressed in suits seemed not to fit at all, spoiling the effort a little. Overall though an enjoyable portrayal of Mary Stewart’s struggles – and they did provide blankets and coffee, so who can complain?

Duddingston Kirk Manse Gardens, until 24 Aug.
tw rating 3/5 | [Stephanie Gray]