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Or rather, Sue Robertson [g], who sings the role of Claire (and _very_ beautifully, too; she’s got a lovely warm, cut-crystal voice).
Sue Robertson (Claire)
Sue started on stage at the grand old age of 16 with Dundee Operatic Society (DOS) with whom she has played many principal roles over the years such as Nancy in ‘Oliver’, Minnie-Fay in ‘Show Boat’, Adelaide. in ‘Guys & Dolls’ and Millie in ‘Thoroughly Modern Millie’. Sue has also had the privilege of working alongside playwright Mike Gibb playing the part of Grace on four occasions during 2005 – 2007 in theatres across Scotland in his musical play ‘Five Pound & Twa Bairns’ and Barbara in ‘Sunday Morning on Dundee Law’ which Kevin Walsh wrote the music for. She has also been in the ‘The Steamie’ playing Doreen in 2002 and again in 2004. Sue has recently enjoyed playing the ‘mad’ role of Helen for the second time, working with the cast of ‘The Berries – Twa an’ a Half Pence a Pund’, written by her husband Dundee author, poet and playwright Gary Robertson.
cairine,
I don't think condecension is called for. I simply offered my opinion, as did you.
*Lisa*
You misunderstand me if you feel that I was being condescending. It is not always easy to put across your tone in the written word as it is in face to face conversation. If you were offended by anything i've said to you…then I apologise.
It had been mentioned in previous blog entries that there was open communication between the writers and Diana and that they were indeed fans of the book.
It just appears (to me anyway) that the project is not being understood for what it is in itself and that it's being "compared" too literally to the written word. We're all here, enjoying these blogs because we are fans of the book series. The very nature of the story has us all painting very different pictures in our heads about what these characters should/would/could be like in reality. These are all personal thoughts/preferences that will never be universally agreed on. That's why getting bogged down in the "detail" is really not terribly relevant with regard to listening to music and song. I am enjoying the music for music's sake…not because of the singers physical characteristics. Again…I apologise…but stand by what I say.
I had the pleasure & privilege to be in the audience for the 3rd Outlander performance on Saturday. Both Jamie & Claire were engaging, & communicated their roles with feeling, passion & emotion. So what if the looks are not exactly 100% as described in the books. Ever heard of curling tongs & hair dye? Or poetic licence? Looks can be altered, but the visual impact & vocal purity of these talented performers carried the story to all present. As a seasoned performer myself, I would challenge anyone who criticises to put their money where their mouth is – try to better it. If you can’t, then there is only one alternative – to remain quiet, sit back, and enjoy the music and the performers with undiluted respect. They were chosen for a reason – above many others. And for that we should all feel lucky they were the two. I can't wait to see where this goes!
I was in to see the performance too i thought it was no more than bloody brilliant!!! It had everything there. I had a tear in my eye. Now having heard the CD in full I can only say WOW!! Well done to all!! and can I just ask…What does Claire look like????? I think Sue is stunning and she can be what you want her to be…. she is an actress/singer after all, will play many different parts and who will adapt to what is expected of her. Hair dye is only if its needed I love her hair as it is. She is a claire for me!!
I'm really thrilled to hear that those of you lucky enough to see the performances enjoyed them! Ditto, the CD. [g] _That_ one, I've heard, and I think it's terrific. (With you on the Words, Cairine!)
What does Claire look like? She looks just like I said she did in the book. [g] Though as noted, this is not any kind of literal translation of character from page to stage here–it's a musical evocation of the story.
(Fwiw, the graphic novel–THE EXILE, it's called–will be out Sept. 21, with all _kinds_ of images of Jamie and Claire. And if you think the pictures of Allan and Sue caused controversy….just wait, that's all I can say. [g])
I wish I could see the performances! Although…school starts back up soon and that means uninterrupted listening to the Outlander audiobooks! It's the only good thing about an hour long drive!
Lovely voice but…WHY IS CLAIRE BLONDE!?!?
Dear Scarlett–
I imagine Ms. Roberts likes being blonde [g], and probably didn't think it worthwhile dyeing her hair brown for a one-day showcase. In terms of the CD, the color of her hair certainly wouldn't affect her voice, I don't think. [g]
Perhaps Claire really should have worn her kertch that day, as I'm sure Mrs. Fitz would have thought proper, then the controversy would have been dampened.
When you look at any stage production, from plays to book adaptations, actors must portray to the best of their abilities. The director chooses the best actor and the audience perceives using their imagination. All this, I'm sure, deviates somewhat from what the author originally intended.
Diana created characters beyond our imaginations. So lifelike and rounded. Of course anything else would pale in comparison.
We must accept this amazing story in altered form, and enjoy it for what it is: an interpretation.