This year's production, 'Preasa a' Bhaird', a newly written comedy won six out of the seven prizes awarded in the drama finals and received a tremendous reception from the audience at a packed Corran Hall.

The adjudicator for this year's event was Beathag Mhoireasdan who hails from Uig in Lewis, with Ryno Morrison undertaking the role of 'Fear an Taighe'. There were three entries in this year's competition, one from each of Lewis, Kilmuir (Skye) and Uist.

All three plays were newly written and each while diverse in its story, style and presentation, collectively provided a solid night of entertainment.

Maggie Willoghby of Kilmuir took the award for Best Actress but it was Sgioba Drama Uibhist who collected 'The Premier Award' together with the trophies for the 'Best Acted Play', and 'Best Stage Presentation', as well as Best New Play (by Maire MacPhail) best actor (Roddy Shaw) and Best Producer (Morag Ferguson). The stage set was designed and built by Angus MacPhail and Dana MacPhee, both members of the cast.

Morag Ferguson, Producer said: "Sgioba Drama Uibhist are delighted to have won this year's drama competition. The production had a great script and its delivery is the culmination of a lot of hard work by a dedicated and creative cast supported by an invaluable and professional back-stage crew.

"As always, it is only made possible through the support of funders and numerous individuals and businesses in the community.

"This year we had some old and new faces both front and backstage and it was ultimately their commitment and work as a team that brought together this piece of superb Gaidhlig entertainment.

"The silverware is an accolade of which every member of the group is proud but that said, there is nothing more rewarding for the group than seeing and hearing repeated peals of laughter from such a large and appreciative audience."
Angus MacPhail, Chairperson, added: "The group is delighted to have won this year's competition. On behalf of Sgioba Drama Uibhist I would like to thank the funders, community and audience who have supported us."

This year's cast members were Catriona Morrison, Angus MacPhail, Caitriona MacCuish, Roddy MacDonald, Dana MacPhee, Morag MacDonald, Roddy Shaw, Uisdean Robertson, CJ MacPhee and Iain Morrison with back and off-stage support from Alice MacAulay, Katie MacDonald, Sarah Mac Eachan and Maire MacPhail.

The team also drew on the assistance of Peggy Hill, John Angus and Alasdair MacDonald during the final weeks of rehearsal. The short sound track was produced with the kind assistance of Will Lamb.

Sgioba Drama Uibhist will give a local performance of the show in the near future, once venues and dates have been agreed.