Three comedians pay tribute to Alasdair Gray at Glasgow festival

In March 2025, a celebration of Alasdair Gray's contributions to art and literature will take place in Glasgow, Scotland. This event will feature three comedians who have collaborated with the Alasdair Gray archive to create original comedic material inspired by Gray's work. The show coincides with the Glasgow International Comedy Festival and marks the 850th anniversary of the city, as well as what would have been Gray's 90th birthday. This collaboration aims to resonate with Gray's legacy, emphasizing the humor within his art and the unique cultural character of Glasgow. Ashley Storrie, one of the comedians involved, expressed how Gray's art presents various idiosyncrasies that often render daunting topics humorous. Her personal anecdotes from growing up in the east end of Glasgow reveal a deep connection to the community and its cultural figures, including Gray. Christopher Macarthur-Boyd also shared a similar connection, recalling a moment with Gray and how his work instills pride in being Scottish. The tribute aims to celebrate these connections through laughter, illustrating how humor can shed light on deeper societal themes. Alan Bissett, another participating artist, intends to bring to life a particular moment that stands out in Gray's legacy: a historical encounter between Gray and Billy Connolly, two significant figures who portrayed Glasgow through their respective lenses. This unique intertwining of their stories will present a new comedic narrative, enriching the existing cultural landscape of the city. The show will unfold at Oran Mor on March 23, 2025, further accentuating the significant milestones of Glasgow's history. Sorcha Gray, the custodian of Alasdair Gray's archive, believes that this comedic tribute would have delighted him. She emphasizes that while Gray aimed for his work to be the focal point, he would find joy in how his legacy inspires creativity and comedy. The overall sentiment surrounding the tribute encapsulates the spirit of Glasgow; a city filled with stories, humor, and a sense of pride drawn from its artistic heritage, making this event an essential celebration of both the city and Gray's influence on its culture.