Play inspired by Celtic legend Bertie Auld could be Vegas-bound

By Euan Davidson

September 3, 2021

‘Bend It Like Bertie’, a stage play inspired by Lisbon Lion and Celtic legend Bertie Auld, has been approached for a Vegas booking.

According to the play’s star, comedian Des McLean, the play which debuted at Webster’s Theatre last night is already gaining significant traction.

‘Bend It Like Bertie’ centres around a divorced, stressed mother of two, who’s being kept sane by her support of Celtic Football Club [Websters]. Written by Jim Orr, it follows the success of a Harald Brattbakk themed stage play.

There’s already an annual convention in Vegas for Celtic supporters. The NAFCSC Convention is a yearly hit, but the addition of some drama and glamour can only boost attendance.

Des McLean said about the Vegas interest [Sun]:

“Even this early we have already been contacted to see if the show will go to Vegas. Bertie [Auld] was Mr Vegas and used to go to every Celtic supporters convention over there, so that’s really exciting.

“We’ve also had offers to take it to Ireland and Australia too, which is fantastic.

“And the show also ticks a really important box for me, allowing me to play one of my all time heroes. I once sat beside Bertie for ten hours flying back from a Celtic supporters convention in Vegas. He told me all the great stories first hand, so that made it extra special to be able to play him in this show.”

A celebration of Lisbon Legend Bertie Auld will surely go down a treat with Celtic supporters

Bertie Auld is still, and always will be, absolutely beloved by Celtic supporters. When news came of Auld’s dementia battle [Celtic FC], the outpouring of love from fans, former players and club figures spoke for itself.

So, the timing is great to show appreciation for the Lisbon Lion. And this seems a perfect way to do it.

It wouldn’t be the first Celtic-themed stage foray, anyway. Celtic The Musical was a smash-hit, with more showings booked for massive Glasgow venues next year.

It’s not hard to see why musicals and plays are such a hit with Celtic supporters. The history of songs and arts being intertwined with the club goes back generations.

Perhaps, that was never better epitomised than by Bertie himself. Ahead of kick-off against Inter Milan on that famous Lisbon day, Auld started singing ‘The Celtic Song’ to calm the Bhoys’ pre-match nerves [Independent].

As we know, it worked a treat.

In other news: Why Welsh might have best chance to impress yet.