Techniques reflecting change
McGrath uses two techniques to explore the theme of change.
Casting
Each member of the company plays multiple roles. For example, the actor who plays Andy McChuckemup goes on to play Texas Jim.
Both characters are self-interested, motivated by capitalism and gaining wealth. Using the same actor to playing these two roles draws attention to the cyclical nature of history 鈥 there will always be someone seeking to capitalise at the expense of others.
"These are my mountains"
McGrath uses the recurring refrain these are my mountains
at different points throughout the play. The only time at which these lines have a note of sincerity is at the beginning when the audience (symbolic of the generations of Highland people) are asked to join in with the singalong.
Later, the line is used by four of the more obnoxious characters in the play:
- Queen Victoria
- French North-West Trader
- Lord Vat
- Texas Jim
Each uses this line to validate their presence or actions. The repetitive refrain is used to show how the time and place may change, but attitudes and capitalist motives never do.