Nearly 1200 Aberdonians traded Rosemount for Leith last night for Lyric’s highly anticipated production of ‘Sunshine on Leith’, performing at His Majesty’s Theatre this week.
A fantastic feel-good story from Stephen Greenhorn, set to iconic songs from world-renowned Scottish band The Proclaimers, ‘Sunshine on Leith’ is both a funny and moving play about Davy and Ally, two Edinburgh natives returning to their hometown after serving in war-torn countries overseas, who are questioning what ‘home’ really means.
Supporting local charity Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) with its 96th production, Lyric has been a steady constant within Aberdeen Theatre. Year upon year, Lyric is always a beam of sunshine glowing down on Aberdeen’s granite, making it sparkle with nothing short of staggering vocal talent and heartwarming story.
Central to the narrative are Davy and Ally, played by Kenneth Lypka and Callum Anderson, whose friendship and romantic entanglements drive much of the story’s emotional depth. Davy, returning home after serving in the army, is portrayed with a compelling mix of vulnerability and resilience. Lypka’s vocals shine in this production, reaching fantastic heights with great control and style. Davy’s journey of re-adjusting to civilian life and rekindling his relationship with his family is brought to life with Lypka’s nuanced performance, making songs like ‘I’m on My Way’ and ‘Then I Met You’ particularly poignant.
Callum Anderson provides Davy’s dynamic counterpart, Ally. His easygoing charm and earnestness in his relationship with Liz bring a contrasting but complementary energy to Davy’s more introspective nature. Anderson’s rendition of ‘Make My Heart Fly’ is a standout moment, showcasing his hopeful romanticism and commitment to Liz.
Speaking of, Laura Burnett is our Liz. With silky smooth vocals, Burnett shines throughout the production. Her interactions bring warmth and authenticity to the storyline, particularly in her scenes with her brother Davy and their father Rab. Her nuanced performance adds layers to the family dynamic, highlighting her as a source of support within the family unit while longing for something more.
Craig Pike portrays our earnest father, Rab with light-hearted humour and emotional gravity. His character embodies the themes of steadfastness and familial duty, providing a counterbalance to the younger characters’ romantic and personal struggles. Rab’s storyline, including the revelation of his past affair and the impact on his marriage, adds a layer of complexity and realism which Pike performs expertly.
Rhonda Scott plays Jean, the matriarch, who brings a steady presence to the production. Her solo ‘Hate My Love For You’ provides a powerful and emotionally charged anchor for the Act 1 finale. While her sensational rendition of ‘Sunshine on Leith’ leaves the audience breath taken and tearful. Her scenes with Pike provide some real punch and both are electric to watch during the tense scenes of Act 2.
And finally, as Davy’s love interest and Liz’s friend, Sarah Dawson is Yvonne. Her performance of ‘Then I Met You’ not only shows her vocal prowess and emotional range, but highlights how her chemistry with Lypka evolves naturally, capturing the excitement of new love and the uncertainties of balancing personal aspirations with a budding relationship.
The Ensemble brings warmth and authenticity to their roles, particularly excelling in vocal performances that breathe new life into the classics like ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’ and ‘Sunshine on Leith.’ Their harmonies resonate powerfully, evoking both joy and nostalgia while supporting their strong front line of characters.
Bethany Hogg gives a tentative and eager Eilidh, hopeful of connecting with her father. Her scenes with Pike are executed well, allowing the awkwardness of their new relationship with its complexities as father and daughter. While Gavin Mackay, Emmah Chibesakunda and Jordan Lees act as a trio within The Canny Man’s pub as barman, waitress and busker respectively with some stunning vocals from each of them.
A highlight within the production is Lynsey Cradock as Hazel. Cradock kicks the energy up with ‘Should Have Been Loved’, her no-nonsense demeanour and hilarious dialogue briefly lifts the dramatic tension of Act 2. Kirsten Knight, Millie Morrice and Rhianne Armstrong also provide fantastic performances in ‘Throw The R Away’ as the Call Centre Instructor, Moira and Karen, with great comic timing and hilarious stage presence. While as Innes and Andi, Stephen Summers and Jen Mackey Blake allow for some gorgeous vocals during ‘Let’s Get Married’.
Each ensemble member gets their own moment in this production, while the stage doesn’t feel crowded. With various side plots like Ross Brechin’s harassed man during the opening number and Logan McKerron’s earnest young man, allow you to lose yourself in Greenhorn’s Sunshine on Leith. The ensemble cast are as follows; Emily Reid, Ailsa Mason, Alan Gordon, Christine Kirk, Daniel Crozier, Emma Gartland, Emma Horne, Jen Sutherland, Joel Simpson, Jordan Abberley-Nicoll, Katie McConachie, Leanne Caie, Lisa Lamb, Logan McKerron, Marie-Ann Mcleod, Ross Brechin, Sarah Innes, Sheila Smith and Tim Riley.
Victoria Cowan’s direction and choreography is exemplary, effectively capturing the spirit of the narrative and keeping the audience engaged throughout. Supported by Assistant Director and Chair Kyle Yeats, Cowan’s choreography flows effortlessly through scenes. Between the regimental pacing of ‘Sky Takes The Soul’ to the rhythmic rammy of the Scottish ceilidh in ‘Oh Jean’, Cowan has done a stellar job with her directorial debut at HMT with this production. The use of simple yet evocative staging enhances the storytelling, allowing the music and performances to shine.
As Musical Director, Matthew Rose never fails to get a company to produce a phenomenal sound. Rose has taken this production of ‘Sunshine on Leith’ to another level with staggering harmonies and gorgeous solos. A particular vocal highlight is difficult to pinpoint due to the calibre of performance within this company.
Susan J Begg’s rep style staging, a gorgeous backlit silhouette of Edinburgh Castle and the streets of Leith, allows the cast to perform over a staggering 40 scenes throughout the performance. Lit by Lewis Todd’s lighting design with warm glows and soft purples, Todd highlights this production with clever spotlighting and shadow. It is no small feat to manage the Sound Design with a cast of 36, but Brian Gunnee and Eilidh Grant have done a commendable job. Colouring this production with the chatter and bustle of Leith Walk. Wardrobe and Props by Kyle Yeats and Neil Fraser blend seamlessly within the production, adding beautiful detail while also providing functionality.
Though there are minor moments where pacing lags, however I do believe this is the fault of the writing and not the team behind this production. Lyrics ‘Sunshine on Leith’ offers a heartwarming celebration of Scottish culture and music, making it a delightful treat for both long-time fans and newcomers alike.
The cast’s hair-raising vocals and infectious energy bring the beloved Proclaimers’ songs to life. With strong direction, spirited choreography, and a vibrant set, this local rendition captures the essence of the musical, leaving the audience uplifted and humming along. It’s a testament to the talent and passion within Aberdeen’s theatre community.
Sunshine of Leith is running at His Majesty’s Theatre from the 26th to the 30th June 2024.
Grab yourselves a slice of sunshine and get your tickets here – https://www.aberdeenperformingarts.com/whats-on/sunshine-on-leith/
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