An exciting new Largs theatre troupe will announce itself to the world (or at least our little bit of it) during the Viking Festival.

Gathering Storm is the brainchild of award-winning playwright Fiona Connor.

And she hopes that this first performance will be able to take place in very special surroundings.

She told us: “We specialise in bringing theatre to all areas and all people. “Stories for everyone that are important to everyone.” The company will present its first show on September 5, with a matinee production of the Low Road - written by Fiona.

She said: “We are hoping to make use of the atmospheric (and often overlooked) Burns Garden in the beautiful Douglas Park, Largs for an open air performance. “We are currently in planning with the council, residents and other park users.” Fiona added that there will be no noise or construction required at Douglas Park for the performance.

Gathering Storm will be holding auditions for The Low Road on Friday 8 May between 7-9m at the Brisbane Centre, Bath Street.

She said: “All actors of any experience are most welcome. Please bring an audition piece of any length and subject matter or alternatively read one of the excerpts of the play we will have ready on the night. “ Actors performing The Low Road will be paid Equity minimum per performance with all catering/accommodation and travel fees covered. Fiona said: “It will be a great opportunity for any budding actors.” For more information please see www.facebook.com/GatheringStormScotland or email fiona_connor@live.co.uk’ The former Largs Academy pupil served her time with Largs Players - joining the chorus in the panto Mother Goose.

Her father Stewart was a slater in the town before moving to the Isle of Canna as a conservationist. Her mother Patricia is part of the well-kent Lamont family of Largs.

She added: “We are also staging the production at the end of September in the gardens of the 18th century Glenwood house, Auchterarder near Gleneagles. “This will be called ‘A beer, a BBQ and a banter’ as ‘We will make you laugh, we’ll make you greet, we’ll gie you something guid tae eat.’