Outdoor theatre is always very interesting (except when it's raining), but when you add in environmental artists NVA and some stunning Scottish landscapes you have a real treat on your hands. 'Half Life: Journey into the neolithic' is a show with a difference. It's set in Kilmartin Glen in Argyll and instead of receiving a programme you are given a map and invited to go on a series of walks which lead you to various atmospheric sites and installations based around some well known, and some rarely seen prehistoric landmarks. The routes are based on recently discovered archaeological field notes and include some new finds such as burial cairns, standing stones and ancient hill forts. The surrounding forest has been manipulated to provide natural 'scenery' for the performance and a soundtrack has been created to enhance existing environmental sounds.
The show continues into the evening when the forest will come alive for a staged production which will be centred around a huge sculpture formed from hundreds of felled trees. It's a celebration of the mystic powers of the forest, and the beliefs and rituals of the people who lived in them thousands of years ago.
The performance is being staged by The National Theatre of Scotland, and runs from 4th to 16th September in Argyll. You can buy tickets, priced at £20 by calling 0131 473 2056.
From: BEST OF 2008: Eco-friendy and sustainable shoes