Sunshine On Leith

Pitlochry Festival Theatre, 30/7/2025

 A musical written by Stephen Greenhorn, featuring the music of The Proclaimers, with a new musical arrangement by David Shrubsole.

 Having enjoyed the last two production over the past years at Pitlochry, I wondered if this revival would stand up. The answer is yes. Under the firm direction of Ben Occhipinti this original production by Elizabeth Newman is a firm favourite in the summer season. Not an empty seat in the House with limited availability ongoing. It has a great story line, music by The Proclaimers and a talented large ensemble who act, sing and provide the music, many playing several instruments and sharing the conducting. It would be difficult to single out an individual in the cast as they all contribute to this production although I do have a soft spot for Keith MacPherson playing Rab. It is written by Stephen Greenhorn, who is credited with developing the popular Scottish soap ‘River City’. I had not realised this when I had in my mind that his was a story from a soap with great music. Two soldiers returning from tours in the middle east, coming back to a world which was not as they hoped it would be, as many did. Many returning from WW2 either emigrated or signed back on. So, a story which touches many. It has heartfelt moments, broad humour and tells a profound story. Originally premiered at Dundee Rep in 2007, made into a film in 2013, it has remained a popular musical in Scotland. The show has a simple set, with the skyline of Edinburgh atop the three trucks full of musical instruments which the actors return to play and perform the twenty something song list which punctuate the story. They bring on simple props, with minimal costume changes, to create the locations, but the story is told mainly through a deft script and terrific singing. Of course, the penultimate song is 500 miles, which David Tenant performed as host at the BAFTA’s much to the bemusement of Hollywood stars. The story is told through music, and terrific acting, although I could have done without the roving moving lights over the auditorium. The matinee was full of an audience both young and old. As the lady next to me said, it is wonderful to see so many oldies enjoying clapping and waving their arms like at Glastonbury. A sure-fire hit, with sold out shows, performed by an excellent ensemble for the theatre. Everyone is looking forward to seeing what the next year’s programme curated by the incoming Artistic Director will be. Elizabeth Newman is a hard act to follow.