Alan Cumming and Shirley Henderson, two seasoned actors with a 40-year friendship, have brought their unique bond to the stage in a captivating production titled The History of Paper. This heartwarming tale, which began as a radio play in 2017 and evolved into a musical at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2024, explores the lives of a couple through the various pieces of paper they accumulate over the years. The emotional depth of the story was further heightened by the passing of Oliver Emanuel, the play's original writer, in 2023.
Cumming and Henderson's portrayal of their younger selves adds a layer of authenticity to the performance. Their shared history and comfort with each other make their on-stage chemistry undeniable. Henderson, who first met Cumming as a young actor on the STV drama Shadow of the Stone, describes their collaboration as effortless, attributing it to their good chemistry and the absence of over-analysis. Cumming, who is now the artistic director at Pitlochry Festival Theatre, shares a similar sentiment, expressing his excitement for each show and the emotional rollercoaster it entails.
The actors' personal connections to the characters are evident in the pieces of paper they cherish. Henderson holds onto letters from her late father, who sent her money and words of encouragement during her teenage years. Cumming, on the other hand, is surrounded by drawings from his illustrator husband, Grant, which he finds in unexpected places, like his luggage.
The History of Paper is a testament to the power of storytelling and the impact of personal connections. The production, which will be at Pitlochry Festival Theatre until September 12th and then at Dundee Rep Theatre from September 16th to 19th, is a must-see for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted narrative and the magic of theatre.
