If you haven’t yet experienced a Play, Pie, Pint at Glasgow’s iconic Òran Mór, you’re seriously missing out. It’s the perfect mix of theatre, comfort food, and a good laugh – all without breaking the bank. There’s even a handy student discount, making it even easier to immerse yourself in Glasgow’s vibrant arts scene.
One of the best things about it? Whether you’re with coursemates or going solo, it’s a great way to spend a free afternoon. I recently headed over to check out the charmingly quirky Goodbye Dreamland Bowlarama on my own and loved every second of the experience.
After heading downstairs to the legendary venue (and labyrinth) that is Òran Mór, I found myself in a cosy, no-frills room with a simple setup. That’s what Play, Pie, Pint does best. No fuss, just great storytelling.
Goodbye Dreamland Bowlarama follows Charlie (Taylor Dyson) and her brother Ross (Ewan Somers) as they navigate family struggles and relentless tragedies, all wrapped up with some catchy tunes. The show is a fun, musical journey that grabs the audience’s attention for the full 55 minutes – which is just the right length, if you ask me.
Written by Taylor Dyson and Calum Kelly, it is packed with Scottish flavour, from its rich Scots language to its dark humour and original songs. The real star, however, is the endless parade of unforgettable characters Charlie meets, each brought to life by the incredible Ewan Somers. Whether he’s playing Grandad, Charlie’s brother, or a quirky local, Somers switches roles with such smoothness and flair it’s impossible to look away. Meanwhile, Taylor Dyson shines as Charlie – earnest, a little naive, and full of heart. You can’t help but root for her to find the peace and belonging she’s chasing.
Director Beth Morton keeps the vibe relaxed and conversational, making the storytelling feel effortless and natural. The chemistry between Dyson and Somers draws you right in, making it a warm and cosy experience at Òran Mór. It’s original, funny, and entertaining – all the things we’ve grown to expect and love from a Play, Pie, Pint production.
Take a look at what’s coming up next here, and show some love to this fantastic Glasgow-based charity. Their mission is all about making theatre affordable and accessible for everyone. If you’re unsure whether it’s your thing, my advice is to just give it a shot – you’ll definitely leave with something great to chat about over a pint.
Eva Curran, she/her
Marketing student and President at Strath Union
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