Perth Theatre has compensated theatre fans with a unique short film - after it was forced to break early from the Christmas panto Cinderella due to COVID restrictions.
The mysterious 10-minute short is titled ‘The Dress’ and stars comedian Karen Dunbar, who was such a big part of the last pre-pandemic production, The Importance of Being Earnest.
In the video, made with support from National Lottery players and The National Lottery National Lottery Heritage Fund, Karen makes a return to Perth Theatre as a runner who takes a breather by the theatre’s glass entrance doors.
Seen from her point of view, The Dress has tie-ins to that unforgettable role she played on the Perth stage as arch-snob, Lady Bracknell.
And the fabulous yellow taffeta hat and dress that she wore as pompous Lady B becomes integral to Karen’s spooky exploration of a deserted Perth Theatre that ‘lets her in’ without explanation.
Karen said: "In a time of so much uncertainty one thing is sure: we have to make stuff. Creativity is a link to sanity and community and my hope is to keep creating so I can connect with myself and those around me.
"Theatre is a vital place for that sharing to exist."
Pam Dochard, Horsecross Arts spokesperson, said of The Dress: “We bring you a video starring the fabulous Karen Dunbar and our lovely theatre.
“We felt that it was a particularly poignant moment to share this given the cancellation of our remaining panto performances.
"We posted the link to watch The Dress to our social media accounts as a Boxing Day treat for our loyal audiences.
“Whilst we are missing our panto pals this week, with every challenge presented by the pandemic, we have committed to opening new windows of creative opportunity.
“ Perth Theatre may be closed for the time being, but we still invite you through our doors digitally.
“We hope you can enjoy #TheDress, a poignant gift brought to you by our tenacious team and starring Karen Dunbar.”
To watch, follow the Vimeo link https://vimeo.com/659703893
