Rabbie Burns' Bottom Drawers

If you are looking for something a bit different during this year's Brighton Fringe, there is a show called Rabbie Burns' Bottom Drawers that takes a look at the more scandalous side of the famous poet. The premise is set in 1796, right after Robert Burns has passed away. In this version of events, his housekeeper stumbles upon a collection of his more explicit poetry, and the local literary society decides to hold a public reading. It essentially turns the audience into the residents of that 18th-century town, watching the drama unfold.

This is a two-person show featuring Christine Weir and Cameron Robertson. They have put together a mix of drama and music, using both a keyboard and a saxophone to accompany the performance. You can expect to hear some of his well-known songs, like 'My Love is Like a Red, Red Rose', alongside readings of his more risqué poetry, such as 'The Fornicator'. It is written by Christine Weir, Clare Stopford, and Jeremy Claydon, with Clare Stopford directing the production.

The show is taking place at Laughing Horse @ The Walrus (Tusk Club). It is scheduled for three dates during the festival: May 10th at 14:45, May 25th at 12:15, and May 31st at 13:30. Each performance lasts for 60 minutes. Since the content includes strong language, sexual innuendo, and audience interaction, it is strictly for an 18+ audience, and there is a policy in place that prohibits entry to anyone under the age of two.

If you are planning to go, tickets are priced at £12.50 for standard entry, with a concession rate of £10 available. It is a fairly intimate setup, so it might be worth checking the schedule if you are interested in seeing how they blend period drama with a modern musical style.