STUDENTS from the University of the West of Scotland (UWS) have come together with Ozzy Osbourne’s former keyboard player to develop a new musical.
Set in New York in 1975, Voice of a Generation tells the story of a young woman and budding rockstar as they look to give a voice to soldiers returning from the Vietnam War.
Musician John Sinclair and Tartan Noir crime writer Lin Anderson ran an intensive three-day workshop with students from UWS to develop ideas for the highly-anticipated musical, alongside producer Chris Grady.
Sinclair said: “It was tremendous to work with the students at UWS. Given my background, it was a first for me in terms of seeing music I’d written brought to life in the theatrical sense, and their level of enthusiasm, creativity and sheer talent was overwhelming.
“I’ve no clear idea of the mechanics of how this project may develop, but I truly hope that a situation arises that requires us to do more of the same.
“I’ve come to live a very reclusive life these days, so the opportunity to ‘resurface’ for this was superb.”
Alongside his work with Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath, Sinclair is known for his time in the band Uriah Heep.
He also styled keyboard sections of the mockumentary film This is Spinal Tap inspired by moments from his time in the music industry.
Students tested out ideas for an innovative, immersive, recorded concept, and a potential stadium tour of the musical.
Anderson, who is well known for her Rhona MacLeod novels said: “Working with the students at UWS was a truly exciting and invigorating experience.
“Their enthusiasm was infectious, and they all demonstrated impressive commitment and talent, as we workshopped ideas for Voice of a Generation.
“The students should be proud of their contributions, which will prove invaluable as we continue to bring this musical to life.”
The show is set to launch in 2025 to mark the 50th anniversary of the end of the conflict in Vietnam.
BA performance programme leader Stephen Langston said: “We were delighted to host three world-leading creatives, as they shared both industry insights and their immense talent with our students.
“It was a truly exciting process, placing students from all levels of the performance programme at the heard of developing ideas for an incredibly exciting new production.
“I look forward to future visits from John, Lin and Chris to develop this musical further.”
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