Two Scottish titans meet on stage in writer and performer Alan Bissett’s When Billy Met Alasdair, a thoughtful and entertaining piece that speculates on a meeting between Billy Connolly and Alasdair Gray at the 1981 launch of Lanark. Using a gifted photo of the two men as a springboard, Bissett crafts an embodiment of narrative and physical character performance that explores the pair’s formative years, artistic and life struggles, and cultural legacies. The show’s strength lies through its analysis of Lanark, Gray’s labyrinthine masterpiece. Bissett doesn’t attempt to decode the novel’s complexities so much as use its themes (alienation, transformation and the surreal mechanics of modern life) as tools for his own storytelling.

Connolly’s journey from the shipyard to global icon is juxtaposed with Gray’s introspective path through art and literature, revealing that behind their towering reputations lay deep uncertainties and personal battles. Bissett’s dual performance is sharply differentiated: his Connolly is loose-limbed and garrulous while his Gray is clipped and quietly intense. The contrast is compelling, though occasionally uneven in pacing. While the show doesn’t quite reach the emotional or theatrical heights it aspires to, this remains a warm, clever tribute to two Scottish giants; and to the power of storytelling.

When Billy Met Alasdair, Scottish Storytelling Centre, until 23 August, 8.30pm; main picture: Alasdair Watson.