Walking into His Majesty’s Theatre to see Tony Roper’s The Steamie, there is an immediate feeling that this will be an evening full of laughter, strong characters and plenty of Scottish humour. From the beginning, the audience is taken into the noisy world of a 1950s Glasgow washhouse, where everyday conversations quickly turn into funny stories, arguments and moments of real emotion.
The 2026 production in Aberdeen is directed by Tony Roper himself, giving it a special connection to the original play. Set on in the late 1950s, the story follows four women spending an evening washing clothes, gossiping, arguing and talking about their lives. Although the setting is simple, it allows the play to explore friendship, family, hopes for the future and everyday struggles.
The Steamie was first performed in 1987 and became one of Scotland’s best-known plays. It was later adapted for television and became closely associated with Hogmanay. The title refers to the communal washhouses that were once an important part of working-class life. These were not just places to wash clothes but also social spaces where people could meet, talk and share their experiences. Roper captures this sense of community extremely well.
The cast are the absolute standouts of the production. Louise McCarthy as Dolly gives a lively and hilarious performance, with excellent comic timing while still showing the warmth behind the character. Lesley Mackie as Mrs Culfeathers brings experience and authority to the role, handling both the comedy and more emotional moments beautifully.
Eden Barrie as Doreen brings youthful energy and optimism to the group. Her dreams for the future feel genuine and give the character plenty of charm. Ali Cleland as Magrit is confident with no nonsense, sharp humour which is highly entertaining, showing both the humour and frustrations of her character perfectly. Paul J. Corrigan as Andy provides a great contrast to the women and brings plenty of laughs whenever he appears.
The chemistry between all five actors is particularly strong. Their conversations feel natural, making it easy to believe that these characters have known each other for years.
The music, with songs by David Anderson, adds another layer to the production. Fiona Comley, Musical Supervisor, and Rebecca Munro, Musical Director, ensure that the musical elements fit naturally into the story. The lighting also helps create the atmosphere and supports the changes in mood throughout the performance.
Behind the scenes, David Hutchinson, Production Manager, Camilla O’Neill, Company Stage Manager, Gordon Dougall, Deputy Stage Manager, and Ross Brown, Assistant Stage Manager, all contribute to keeping the production running smoothly.
What makes The Steamie so successful is that, despite being set in the 1950s, its themes are still easy to relate to. People still gossip, argue, dream about better lives and rely on their friends. The play reminds us how important friendship and community can be.
Overall, this is a funny, warm and genuinely moving production. The entire cast work brilliantly together, while the direction, set, costumes, music, lighting and backstage work all come together to create an enjoyable evening of Scottish theatre.
Nearly forty years after it was first written, The Steamie still proves that great characters and a good story never go out of fashion.
‘The Steamie’ is running from 29-3rd October at His Majesty’s Theatre. Get your tickets for a brilliant night of Scottish theatre here: https://www.aberdeenperformingarts.com/whats-on/the-steamie/#book
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