Scottish chamber musical A History of Paper will transfer to New York for a 13-week Off-Broadway run at Stage 42 from 12 February to 16 May 2027. Developed by Dundee Rep and Pitlochry Festival Theatre, the acclaimed two-person romance stars Shirley Henderson and Alan Cumming, charting love through everyday keepsakes.
Emma Rice's adaptation of Tristan & Yseult at The Royal Lyceum Theatre offers a bold, cabaret-style reinterpretation of the classic tale, blending humor and tragedy. With captivating performances and stunning visual design, the production energizes the audience, celebrating the magic of live theater and the complexities of love, loss, and human connection.
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.
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.
"I'll Be Seeing You," directed by Alan Cumming and Ben Occhipinti, is a dazzling world premiere at Pitlochry Festival Theatre. It explores the clash between modern queer identity and 1950s celebrity culture through the lens of a conflicted playwright. With strong performances, particularly from Simon Russell Beale, the production balances humor and poignant themes of sexuality and societal acceptance.
In Roxana Silbert's revival of Samuel Beckett's Happy Days at Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Winnie, played by Siobhan Redmond, embodies resilience amidst existential decay. The production transforms bleak themes into an intimate exploration of survival. Redmond's masterful performance shines in a captivating setting, reaffirming the enduring spirit of humanity.
Iain Heggie’s comedy, Wiping My Mother's Arse, explores family dynamics and elder care, blending humor with dark themes of greed and institutional flaws. Strong performances anchor the piece, though tonal shifts hinder its overall impact, leaving an uneven yet engaging experience.
'Beautifully conceived and deeply moving, A History of Paper stands as a gentle, gorgeous testament to the lasting power of human touch, and the journey we make. Nothing will ever replace the weight we imbue into something tangible: and in this case, that’s live theatre.
"I Can Die Too," directed by Bill Buckhurst, mixes musical and dramatic elements to portray Lily, a troubled actress rehearsing for a role. Despite initial disjointedness, the play shines with energetic performances and clever staging. While it offers a fresh perspective on women's narratives, a deeper emotional exploration would enhance its impact.
Pitlochry Festival Theatre’s reimagining of Lear, directed by Finn Den Hertog and featuring Maureen Beattie, offers a bold exploration of power and familial disintegration. The production captivates with its emotional depth, striking design, and strong performances, portraying a profound tragedy that resonates both politically and personally. A significant triumph for the theatre.
