The Table, co-directed by Christine Devaney, Maria Oller, and Jo Timmins, showcases a collaborative fusion of poetry, music, and movement at the Traverse Theatre. This ensemble piece, exploring themes of inclusion and belonging, challenges traditional theatrical norms with its episodic structure. Despite some unevenness, it celebrates diverse voices and experiences, embodying a spirit of accessibility and community.
The Karate Kid: The Musical at The Festival Theatre brings nostalgia and excitement to the iconic story. With solid performances, particularly by Gino Ochello as Daniel and Adrian Pang as Mr. Miyagi, the production offers memorable songs and impressive choreography. While it has some structural flaws, it ultimately delivers a captivating coming-of-age tale.
The play "SHINJUKU" explores the challenges of modern motherhood through Abby, a single mother confronting accusations that her son is influenced by misogynistic ideologies. With rich character development and a focus on societal pressures, it prompts audiences to question gender dynamics and the impact of the manosphere, sparking vital discussions.
The Borrowed Room, directed by Sam Pitcher, explores themes of community and homophobia through a reunion between Ewan and Graham, highlighting the pain of exclusion. While heartfelt performances shine, the play struggles with dialogue and structure, sitting between dramatic and post-dramatic theatre. It shows promise as a contemporary queer piece.
Book of Shadows is a dark comedy featuring teenage skeptic Vi and her mystic grandmother as they explore cults and missing friends using shadow puppetry. The show blends humor and mystery, aiming to empower audiences while providing a unique theatrical experience.
The Royal Lyceum's "The Lyceum at Home" celebrates community through a series of poignant monologues related to Edinburgh's identity. Directed by Jennifer Fletcher, the performance weaves together hopes and memories, showcasing the essence of human connection. Each narrative, enriched by the cast's performances, highlights the importance of people over places.
The Pitlochry Festival Theatre's revival of "Once," directed by John Tiffany, is a testament to intimate storytelling and emotional connection. The performances by Dylan Wood and Lydia White shine, while the ensemble creates a warm, lived-in atmosphere. With exquisite music and a thoughtful design, it promises to be the highlight of the season.
Peter Quilter's musical "Allegra," directed by Stephen Mear and starring Dame Maureen Lipman, blends comedy and drama to explore mental health themes through a protagonist whose eccentricity disrupts her village. Despite its uneven tone and reliance on sentimentality, the production resonates with heartfelt messages about the acceptance of unconventional minds.
Illyria Theatre's adaptation of "The Three Musketeers" at Edinburgh Castle received a five-star review for its captivating performances and innovative staging. The cast excelled in multiple roles, with standout performances from Alex Layfield as D'Artagnan and Christopher Laishley as Athos. The production blended slapstick and drama, creating an engaging theatrical experience.
Windblown wins Best Production The 2026 Critics’ Awards for Theatre in Scotland offered a vivid snapshot of a national theatre scene in remarkable health, celebrating a year in which Scottish stages delivered work of striking breadth, ambition and emotional force. Presented by Gavin Mitchell at Glasgow’s newly refurbished Citizens Theatre, the awards recognised no fewer … Continue reading Have a Gander at The Critics Awards for Theatre in Scotland Winners 2026
