“Sometimes love is stronger than the Crushing Hand. And sometimes love is the Crushing Hand.”

 

Love and the Crushing Hand

Full-length  ·  9 men, 3 women (some roles can be double-cast)

The story takes place in the desolate western isles of Scotland, at a time when paganism and superstition still lingered. The focus is on the Macara brothers and the women in their lives. “Gloom” Macara is selfish, lustful, and evil to the core. He thrives on destroying the hopes, dreams, and loves of other men, especially his brothers, and will not stop at murder. He threatens those who cross him with the Crushing Hand of fate. Daniel Macara, “The Anointed Man,” is a kind, gentle visionary who sees the beauty of the world through uncommon eyes. Seumas Macara is a good man who has the "true love" for a woman and will not let Gloom stand in his way.

Anne Gillespie is frightened of Gloom, but courageous enough to defy him and go off with the man of her choice, but not until one man is killed. Katreen MacArthur is sassy and sexy and desired by Gloom, Seumas, and her cousin Ian. Finally, there is Marsail MacAlpine, quiet and gentle, who is loved by Daniel. She did not accept Daniel, only to find Gloom preying upon her.

The play presents a series of dramatic encounters on love, lust, fate, and the joy that is sometimes found when love and fate allow it. This script is based on 19th century Scottish tales recorded by William Sharp, who wrote under the name of Fiona MacLeod. The stories are in the public domain.