Alan Cumming's second season as Artistic Director of Pitlochry Festival Theatre in 2027 promises an exciting array of productions, including classics and new Scottish plays. The season features diverse performances like Alan Ayckbourn’s "Absent Friends," Dolly Parton’s "9 to 5," and the premiere of "Supernova." Enthusiasts can anticipate innovative storytelling and vibrant theater in Scotland’s hills.
Kate Prince's musical "Sylvia" powerfully reinterprets the women's suffrage movement through dynamic choreography and a compelling narrative about the Pankhurst family. Premiering at The Festival Theatre, the production features stunning performances, particularly by Beverley Knight as Emmeline, blending historical context with modern urgency and emotion, leaving a lasting impact on audiences.
"Jersey Boys" returns to The Edinburgh Playhouse, celebrating Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons’ rise to fame. While the cast's vocal talents shine, the production suffers from a minimalist set and uneven sound balance, hindering emotional depth. Despite these flaws, it remains an enjoyable homage to sixties pop culture.
"Come Dee Wis: Shetland Stories, Sangs an Tunes is a vibrant performance celebrating island life through fiddle music, songs, and traditional crafts in the newly official Shaetlan language. Featuring artists Claire White and Robbie Leask, the show blends traditional and contemporary narratives, reflecting Shetland's rich cultural heritage."
Two Doors Down Live at OVO Hydro captivates with humor from a quirky group of Glasgow neighbors. The production shines without elaborate sets, relying on sharp writing and a talented cast, including Arabella Weir and Alex Norton. Nostalgic references, character dynamics, and lively music enhance the warm, entertaining experience, earning it five stars.
Franziska Droll and Mollie Davis present an immersive performance blending Black Forest folklore and Scottish Highland myths. The show features storytelling and music centered on mythical creatures, inviting audience interaction and reflection on humanity's connection to nature. Celebrated in the Scottish International Storytelling Festival, it emphasizes the importance of live storytelling today.
Warrior/Poet merges ancient Celtic myth with eco-resistance, focusing on the Pollok Free State protests and the legend of Mad Sweeney. Storyteller David Hughes emphasizes personal experiences and community ties, expressing the evolving nature of storytelling. The performance encourages active audience participation, aiming to foster connection and cultural awareness.
Vicky Featherstone's adaptation of Muriel Spark's "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie" at the Royal Lyceum Theatre skillfully reveals the chilling dynamics of a charismatic teacher manipulating her students under the guise of beauty. Gayle Rankin's performance as Brodie and the striking visual design create a haunting exploration of authoritarianism amidst a backdrop of 1930s Scottish classrooms.
Finnish duo Riikka Palonen and Satu Lankinen present heartfelt narratives honoring extraordinary cows and the women who care for them. Their performances blend storytelling, music, and ancient cattle calls, portraying resilience and connection to tradition. These works aim to highlight the significance of stories and foster a vibrant storytelling community.
Edinburgh University Theatre Company's production of John Logan's "Red," directed by Theodore Casimir-Lambert, showcases the complexities of artist Mark Rothko, powerfully portrayed by Rufus Goodman. The dynamic between Rothko and his assistant Ken, played by Dylan Kaeuper, offers engaging dialogue and emotional depth, though pacing could improve. The technical elements enhance the immersive experience.
