Words: Miriam Kirchberger
Image: Binski

5 Stars 

Selkies, but make them trans. The Scottish Storytelling Centre is a fitting venue for Niall and Aisla’s mesmerising story about otherness and Scottish folk myths. 

Niall is the main storyteller who takes us on a journey of three separate but interwoven stories about humans, selkies and second skins in the past, present and future. Niall brings anyone not familiar with the mysterious selkie up to speed within the first few minutes. He is joined by Ailsa on the cello who accompanies the whole story. A highlight are the interludes of her beautiful songs. The story and songs are very much rooted in old tales, but we also get nods to Chappell Roan. 

The set may be minimalist but the story is the opposite. It is rich, poetic and evocative. The audience is presented with lives lived in London, Edinburgh and a remote Scottish island. We are also transported under water to experience conflict played out between sea creatures. 

Past selkie stories are used as an allegory to contemporary challenges and complexities of gender identity. The show also imagines what life may be like for a trans person in the future. While this concept could be overly predictable and bleak, it’s an empathic and original story that doesn’t scrimp on laughs or hope. Niall excels as a charismatic storyteller with humour and warmth. 

The story is enchanting and covers themes that will be relatable to most, such as belonging, desire and having a pint at your local pub. It is hugely enjoyable and left me wanting more!

Selkie: Past, Present, Future
Netherbow Theatre at Scottish Storytelling Centre 
18:40 
19 – 30 August