In a vibrant tribute to an often overlooked period of Scotland’s LGBTQ history, a compelling new musical takes inspiration from the infamous Whitehats gang, whose audacious crimes reverberated through 1920s Glasgow. Penned by award-winning writer and director Johnny McKnight, known for his work on River City, “Meet Me At The Knob” invites audiences on a journey through the gripping world of the Whitehats, offering a fresh perspective on their intriguing exploits.
Rediscovering the Forgotten Era
Driven by the desire to illuminate a chapter of Scottish history that has long remained obscured, McKnight delves into the captivating stories of the Whitehats. Drawing parallels to the notorious Peaky Blinders, McKnight introduces a groundbreaking twist: the gang’s leader emerges as a gay showman. This unexpected portrayal challenges preconceived notions and allows the musical to explore the complexity and diversity of the LGBTQ community, especially during the momentous Pride month.
The Colorful Cast of Characters
Amidst the melody of this unconventional musical, a host of compelling characters takes center stage. Gangleader Liz, brought to life by the talented Darren Brownlie, is a vivid reflection of William Patton, the Dundee-born mastermind behind the Whitehats. Joining Brownlie are former River City stars Tom Urie and Dylan Wood, who add their own dynamic performances to the tapestry of this darkly humorous production.
From Cabaret to Compromise
Set against the backdrop of a bygone era, “Meet Me At The Knob” weaves a captivating tale of intrigue and danger. The story unfolds as a male prostitute cunningly lures a high court judge back to his hotel room, unbeknownst to the judge that the gang’s enigmatic leader lurks within the wardrobe, armed with a camera poised to capture compromising images for future blackmail. With its modern take on 1920s music crafted by Glasgow-based musicians Novasound, the musical presents a thrilling blend of historical narrative and contemporary sensibilities.
Exploring Adversity and Empathy
Beyond its enthralling plot, “Meet Me At The Knob” also probes the impact of poverty and criminal records on the lives of its characters. McKnight deftly intertwines themes of financial desperation and societal prejudice, unveiling the stark realities faced by those trapped within the margins. By highlighting the struggles of both LGBTQ individuals and those burdened with a criminal past, the musical engenders empathy and understanding, while shedding light on a chapter of history that demands recognition.
As the stage lights illuminate Glasgow’s Oran Mor from June 5 to 10, “Meet Me At The Knob” offers an opportunity to witness the forgotten stories of the Whitehats, a gang whose legacy echoes through time. In a mesmerizing fusion of music, humor, and poignant narratives, this groundbreaking production invites audiences to celebrate and commemorate Scotland’s LGBTQ community, both past and present.