Medieval Weekend – Play – 7 August 2015 Lismore Voices
The island’s Medieval weekend started on a cool but fine Friday evening with “Banished” a play by Jennifer Baker which told the story of one of Bishop George Lauder ‘s rare visits in 1452. Lismore was an outpost of his diocese and far from his residence in the lowlands.
Banished, a medieval play by Jennifer Baker
It was rumoured that he wished to take income and power from the locals, Sir Gilbert Maclachan and Sir Thomas MacFadyen, both possibly priests, who plotted to raise a riot against the Bishop. With a cast of many and a chorus of islanders lead by Sophie King with help from Lismore Voices, the Bishop arrived on Cass, an island horse, and as he met his unexpected fate, he cursed the rabble but, in the end, he is forced to bless and forgive all the plotters.
Banished, a medieval play by Jennifer Baker
They are less keen to forgive him especially his complete failure to speak Gaelic and his threats to report them to the Pope.
Banished, a medieval play by Jennifer Baker
This incident recorded in the Auchinleck Chronicle demonstrates, not for the first or last time, that Liosaich are no pushover when confronted by unfair moves from the rich and powerful.
Banished, a medieval play by Jennifer Baker
Congratulations to the large cast, the crowd, the choir, Jennifer Baker, the children and the costume makers.
Banished, a medieval play by Jennifer Baker
Banished, a medieval play by Jennifer Baker
A ceilidh in the heritage Centre followed.