Common Tongue at Netherbow Theatre at Scottish Storytelling Centre Review

A woman walks on stage; she wears grey trousers and a red zipper hoodie, her name is Bonnie, and she loves to talk. She passionately speaks of her love for her country, her dialect and her papa. Common Tongue explores what it truly means to be a Scot.

A one-woman piece performed by the powerhouse that is Olivia Caw, who strides through the piece without ever once slowing down, even in the quiet moments. Having run in the second half of last year, the show already had an amazing write-up, so I had little doubt it would bore me. And boy was I entertained, not only by Olivia herself but also the lady in the front row who answered a question she wasn’t even being asked.

It’s interesting to see how the world doesn’t just portray Scotland, but also its language. Having family in England means I have to explain quite a few words to them, and Americans who come into my work never quite seem to understand what we’re asking, so they just nod and agree to whatever popcorn is in front of them. So I felt like I related to Bonnie a lot as someone who has also been told she talks too fast and is constantly asked to repeat herself, but slower.

The stage is covered in a mat and three boxes of various sizes, all covered in the same Modge Podge of tartan scraps. It kinda made it feel like a way of showing Scotland collectively as a unit whilst having the uniqueness of all the different areas and cultures. There are also microphones precariously placed around the stage, only being used for other characters, helping to provide a verbal barrier between Bonnie and those who don’t share her dialect. The relationship between Bonnie and her papa was the highlight of the piece, not only providing some warmth and comfort, but showing how different generations view their identity.

All in all, Common Tongue is a love letter to Scotland and its language. However, I would say it might potentially be a struggle for those not versed in Scottish dialect. But do not let that put you off because it is a show of the heart that will make you weep, laugh, and maybe learn a new word or two.

Common Tongue plays at Netherbow Theatre at Scottish Storytelling Centre until 31 August.

★★★★★

Written by Kerry for Theatre and Tonic, August 2026.