Ross' comic novel adapted for online drama

David F Ross' novel The Rise and Fall of the Miraculous Vespas is to be adapted for an online production, airing on 30th July.

The second novel in the Disco Days Trilogy, published by Orenda, will be jointly produced as an online play by Scotland's longest-running touring company Borderline Theatre Company, and Ayr Gaiety Theatre.

The film will be produced in three 20-minute acts as part of Gaiety Lockdown Season, available to view via the theatre's channel, followed by a live discussion with the cast and creatives behind the play.

Orenda publisher Karen Sullivan said: "This book is a natural for the screen, with a host of unforgettable characters and superb, side-splitting dialogue. The story centres around a young Ayrshire band that miraculously hits the big time with the smash hit record of 1984. International stardom clearly beckons, despite having a delusional teenage manager propelled by a dark, malign voice in his head… But can Max Mojo’s band of talented social misfits repeat the success and pay back the mounting debts accrued from an increasingly agitated cartel of local gangsters? Or will they have to kidnap Boy George?"

Sullivan continuted: "There was a huge buzz around the book when it was published, and Boy George himself became involved, saying, 'This band would definitely bring on Stockholm Syndrome'. The paperback release was accompanied by an exclusive track, with a limited-edition LP, written and performed by Bobby Bluebell, and received exceptional review coverage. We are so excited about this project, testament to David’s incredible creativity, particularly under lockdown, and we’re grateful to the whole team for their vision, talent and ingenuity. It’s a magnificent achievement."

The screenplay is by the author in collaboration with actor, director and playwright Stuart Hepburn. It stars Scottish actors Tam Dean Burn, Sarah McCardie and Colin McCredie.

Ross said: "My initial idea for how this would work has been completely surpassed. The cast have brought amazing talent to the piece. Overall, it’s so much more than I hoped for. The creative experience has been really special, and a lot of fun."