A GAELIC TV drama is set to take on the Scandinavians at their own game – and the show’s 88-year-old star can’t wait.
BBC Alba series Bannan is hoping to follow in the footsteps of the Scandi-dramas, after the Skye-based show was signed to an international distribution deal.
The series’ producers recognise that viewers are no longer put off by subtitles after the worldwide ratings success of “Nordic Noir” programmes such as The Killing, The Bridge and Borgen.
A source close to Bannan says there is strong interest in the show from Scandinavia as well as North America. That’s great news as far as Peggy Wood is concerned, who is living her dream of becoming a professional actress after decades of amateur work.
“I was part of a Gaelic drama group for 30 or 40 years,” said Peggy, who has four kids, eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
“We had a good producer and went all over the country performing, from Wick to Stirling, also participating in the Mod.
“I also featured in a few Gaelic films many years ago but I had never had a professional role.
“Instead, I worked in a hotel on Skye, doing a bit of everything but mostly housemaid duties. It was hard work so I was delighted when I auditioned for Bannan and got the part.”
She plays Peigi, grandmother of the show’s main character, Mairi.
Peggy’s been involved with the series since the first episode and shooting of the fifth season is now under way.
The programme’s makers signed a new four-year contract this summer and Peggy hopes to remain involved for a long time to come.
“If I can carry on and keep learning the lines, I will,” she smiled.
“I really enjoy it and we’re all like one big family on the set.”
Peggy, who now lives in Kyle of Lochalsh, was born in the same year as Hollywood greats Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn, but her favourite actresses are from closer to home.
“I have so many favourites, but I think my top two are Barbara Windsor and Rita from Corrie (Barbara Knox),”she added.
The fourth series of Bannan starts on BBC Alba tomorrow evening at 10pm.
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