The Beautiful Cosmos of Ivor Cutler @ Citizens

Vanishing Point, in collaboration with the National Theatre of Scotland, present The Beautiful Cosmos of Ivor Cutler. Known as a poet, surrealist-humourist and songwriter, Ivor Cutler is one of Scotland's unique artists.

Born in 1923 in Glasgow, Cutler had a long and varied career in both music and film: in 1967, he appeared in the film Magical Mystery Tour with the Beatles; one of his LPs was produced by the Beatles' George Martin; in 1969, he recorded one of his first sessions for John Peel. He became known particularly for accompanying himself on a harmonium or piano. Now, eight years after his death, Vanishing Point and the National Theatre of Scotland are trying to resurrect the spirit through his work.

Using recordings and recorded performances of his work, with the aid of Phyllis King, Vanishing Point's Sandy Grierson channels Cutler's voice. King used to perform with Cutler on a BBC radio series called King Cutler. Her contribution is reflected by Elicia Daly. The two actors will also be joined by Ed Gaughan who will invoke other partnerships Cutler made, and by four musicians who will try to recreate his music including Going in a Field, I Believe in Bugs, Rubber Toy, Baby Sits, I’m Happy and Beautiful Cosmos.

Directed by Matthew Lenton, The Beautiful Cosmos of Ivor Cutler will tour across the country from the start of April until the start of May. [Eric Karoulla]