Andy Stewart lives on

Press, 18 March 1981, Page 6

Andy Stewart lives on

By

GEOFF MEIN

.They • came • to • see • the Scotsman, Andy .Stewart, delivered . . . kilt, sporran, grey hair:and all. -...-• ... Supported by a promising line-up of Scottish artists, the ageing Stewart pranced round the Theatre Royal stage' brandishing the .popular: style of Scottish entertainment, which. has won hirn famein ' many ?. theatres throughout the world. A young accordionist, Gordon Pattullo, got the audience going with his’ own arrangemet of “The Blue Bells of Scotland,” which his.;;,: proud.;: Scottish heart could almost be heard beat-

ing boldly behind'his accordion: •” . ‘ .

•• The comedian, Billy Jeffrey,: will be remembered less for; his. jokes than; for singing his recently released single, “Scotland Again.” It was unfortunate he only sang once. ’ . • .. ; Helen McArthur . showed her talent as a versatile soprano with a. medley of Scottish favourites, followed by various songs from popular musicals,. including a moving performance of “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina.” about the only item to make. full. use,, of the limited stage lighting. .However after a somewhat uncertain start, the old pro came into his; own. Stewart

showed surprising vigour, even if he did at times visibly tire. ■ ; | .•- • In spite of his grey hair, he - showed he was by no means a spent force. Witty, and in fine voice, he led the audience in several Scottish greats, including “Scottish Soldier,” “Maggie,” and “Donald Where’s Your Troosers.”

He improved as the even? ing progressed, and his impersonation of Elvis Presley —his hip-swivelling threatened for the first time to wear a kilt out from the inside—was a sight to see. The Scotsman seated behind? me left those around him in no doubt that he got his money’s- worth. ; ■