Top Whisky Event Searches for ‘Am Dram’ Stars

Aspiring actors and actresses from across the central belt are being invited to act in a ‘whodunnit’ murder mystery as part of an exciting new event set to stir up the whisky industry.

Organisers of the Whisky Stramash, which takes place for the first time at Edinburgh’s Surgeons’ Hall on 26th-27th May, are on the search for an amateur dramatics group to act out the gruesome game, which is being sponsored by Jura Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

Colleges, universities and drama clubs from across the central belt are invited to audition and compete against other groups across the country for the chance to take part and win a £1,000 cash prize.

The winning group will be invited to the event to act out dramatic death scenes, plotting along the way and leaving clues to grip the unsuspecting audience, before helping to uncover the cunning culprit.

Darroch Ramsay, founding partner of the Whisky Stramash, said: “This is an exciting time to be part of the event, particularly as this is the first.

“The atmosphere is set to be extraordinary, with the combination of the historical location at the Surgeons’ Hall and the weird and wonderful experiences we are offering, including the murder mystery.

“We are looking for a group of five keen drama enthusiasts to take part in our murder mystery. We are encouraging as many amateur dramatic groups across the central belt as possible to enter. It’s a fantastic opportunity to be involved in something that is truly unique.”

Auditionees are asked to send a three-minute video clip of their best performance to Sarah Dedecker or by post, to Whisky Stramash Am Dram Auditions, threebrand, Boat 1502U, The Shore, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6QW.

Willie Cochrane, Jura Distillery manager, said: “Jura’s history is steeped in storytelling, intrigue and mystery.

“We are supporting the ‘am dram’ campaign because it is the perfect tie-in with our brand and the island's unique heritage. We are looking forward to seeing what unfolds at the event.

“Watch this space as we are hoping to bring something special to this unique experience.”

Videos will be uploaded onto a dedicated YouTube site, before the Whisky Stramash organisers narrow the entrants down to their favourite three. These three will be invited to audition in front of the judging panel at a location in Edinburgh before the winner is announced and invited to perform at the event in May 2012.

Whisky Stramash will encounter many elements and experiences, and will feature a huge array of whiskies from Scotland and abroad.

As well as the murder mystery, visitors can expect to be entertained by a realistic barber surgeon, Heston Blumenthal-style molecular experiments and bespoke whisky cocktails.

Please note that all participants must be over the age of 18 and proof of age is needed to apply.

More information:

Whisky Stramash.

Isle of Jura Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

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