2024 was a year filled with brilliant theatre produced by companies and artists based in Scotland as well as the touring companies visiting receiving venues across the country. We reviewed eighty-five productions in 2024.
LIFE OF PI (HIS MAJESTY’S THEATRE, ABERDEEN) | REVIEW BY HANNAH DAVIDSON
Life of Pi truly makes the impossible seem possible – both reflecting in the play’s profound, life affirming message but also when delivering an intense, passionate and impressive piece of theatre. It quickly asks the audience to suspend their disbelief and embrace their inner childlike wonder, which is definitely reflected in the audience reaction to the piece throughout.
MOVIES TO MUSICALS 10TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT (SEC ARMADILLO) | REVIEW BY KEIRAN MCLEAN
Movies to Musicals brought out all the stops for their 10 year anniversary show and they didn’t disappoint. From a star-studded guest line up to such a fantastic performance by the cast and band – Movies to Musicals really celebrated their 10th anniversary and did it in style.
PETER PAN GOES WRONG (EDINBURGH PLAYHOUSE) | REVIEW BY LEWIS C. BAIRD
‘Peter Pan Goes Wrong’ is a production unlike any other, Mischief Theatre’s hysterical, farcical comedy is one for all the family and is a great piece of theatre. If you want a very funny night at the theatre then get your tickets for what is the best play touring the UK currently.
HAMILTON (FESTIVAL THEATRE, EDINBURGH) | REVIEW BY LEWIS C. BAIRD
‘Hamilton’ is a revolutionary piece of musical theatre, that uniquely tells the story of Alexander Hamilton with a 21st Century flare. This is the Scottish Theatre event of the year which has everyone begging to be in the room where it happens, and quite rightly so.
Forth Children’s Theatre’s 45th anniversary Gala epitomizes what youth theatre is about; spirit, learning and excitement for the future. It is clear that Forth Children’s Theatre has, and will continue to provide Scotland with some of it’s future stars of screen and stage.
THE KITE RUNNER (THEATRE ROYAL, GLASGOW) | REVIEW BY REBECCA DONATI
‘The Kite Runner’ is an exceptional piece of theatre, it is well deserving of it’s renowned reputation and I would urge anyone to go and see it. The production addresses some true evil and it is important that you research some of these themes prior to going to prepare for some of the content. This wonderful production is extraordinary theatre, shocking, provoking and uplifting the audience to make positive change within their lifetime.
SISTER ACT THE MUSICAL (KING’S THEATRE, GLASGOW) | REVIEW BY REBECCA DONATI
‘Sister Act The Musical’ will have you feeling ‘Fabulous Baby’! If you wish to see a heart-warming story, filled with a diverse cast, a super fun atmosphere and excellent music then get yourself along to the King’s Theatre Glasgow.
MAGGIE & ME (TRON THEATRE, GLASGOW) | REVIEW BY REBECCA DONATI
‘Maggie & Me’ takes you on an exceptional journey of exploration. It provokes you to confront your own truth or reflect on what you have already confronted – to fully free yourself and live unapologetically. Stories are key to the survival of others. The power of stories will never disappear. Stories like these being displayed in theatres have a much more visceral feel.
EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE (HIS MAJESTY’S THEATRE, ABERDEEN) | REVIEW BY HANNAH COOK
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie sits centre stage at the heart of modern musical marvels. An inspiring celebration of individuality, complete with societal critique and a perfect balance of humour and sensitivity. With its stellar cast, infectious music, and distinctive design, this production will no doubt dazzle audiences all over the UK.
DEAR BILLY (NATIONAL THEATRE OF SCOTLAND) | REVIEW BY REBECCA DONATI
McNair’s production is certainly a love letter, yes somewhat to Billy Connolly, yet more importantly to the people of Scotland. To hear so many Scottish recollections, using our natural storytelling and humour felt special. We strive and hope to be bold, to live unapologetically and within Scotland we have a lot of shame placed on us by others. This production invites you to be a bit more like Billy Connolly because it holds a mirror to how important our voices really are.
HEN NIGHT HORROR (PAVILION THEATRE, GLASGOW) | REVIEW BY KEIRAN MCLEAN
Hen Night Horror is a fantastically ridiculous comedy that will have each and every audience member leaving the theatre in pain from laughing.
THE WIZARD OF OZ (KING’S THEATRE, GLASGOW) | REVIEW BY REBECCA DONATI
‘The Wizard of Oz’ is a timeless classic, despite the production’s vast history this interpretation feels brand new. The production is vivacious and lifts the spirits of its audiences reminding them of the power of theatre. The production takes you on an incredible journey of exploration and wows you with technical creativity throughout
HERE YOU COME AGAIN (EDINBURGH PLAYHOUSE) | REVIEW BY LEWIS C. BAIRD
‘Here You Come Again’ is a brilliant new musical, that surprised this reviewer with it’s bold, hilarious and utterly captivating story. Dolly Parton’s hits are timeless, and this production is an ode to the star’s talent, and the power of music helping us through life’s hardships.
DOKTOR KABOOM: MAN OF SCIENCE (EDINBURGH FRINGE) | REVIEW BY LAUREN SHAW
Trying to find age-appropriate shows at the Edinburgh Fringe can feel daunting with so many options to choose from, and to help write an unbiased review, I brought my 6-year-old niece and my older brother. Both loved it – and my niece is hard to impress! It is clear to say that this show is a winner for everyone. Doktor Kaboom: Man of Science is a must-see at this year’s festival for families.
PAUL SAVAGE: HOPES UNDER THE HAMMER (EDINBURGH FRINGE) | REVIEW BY LAUREN SHAW
Armed with a spotify playlist, a microphone and a dry sense of humour, Savage aims to impress, and he did just that on his first show of the month. He is proof that comedy doesn’t need shock value for laughs. His stories feel genuine and his love for stand-up (along with Jack Daniels’ advertisements) brings a great energy to his performance. If this preview is anything to go by, Savage will have a very successful run this festival season.
SHAKE IT UP: THE IMPROVISED SHAKESPEARE SHOW (EDINBURGH FRINGE) | REVIEW BY SAM EASTOP
The cast have an amazing ability to bounce off one another and go with each other’s ideas, all eluding to the fact they are masters of improv. Wearing simple pieces of costume one way and a different way the next to portray different characters, and relying on the fact that the audience are intelligent enough to pick up on references to Shakespeare and his actual existing work, mean that this show really is brilliant fun for all and cements Shake It Up in the upper echelon of Improv Theatre at the fringe
KEV CAMPBELL WAS HE (EDINBURGH FRINGE) | REVIEW BY SAM EASTOP
Kev Campbell Was He is an astounding one man show that brings to the forefront issues that need addressing while also being a love letter to the common “guy” out there that has a passion or a dream. This show is certainly one to get tickets for the year as not many pieces this well put together about such topics come by often.
WEREWOLF (EDINBURGH FRINGE) | REVIEW BY SAM EASTOP
Werewolf uses all the tools at its disposal to give the audience a truly unforgettable experience, with some very unexpected and unsettling moments this isn’t for the faint of heart. Overall, an amazing piece of theatre that demonstrates just what can be achieved with incredible world building and some very simple, yet incredibly effective story telling.
STUPID SEXY POEM SHOW (SCOTTISH STORYTELLING CENTRE) | REVIEW BY STACEY BROWN
I would highly recommend this show to everyone, whether you’re well versed in poetry or not. It’s a laugh a minute production filled with silliness and authenticity created by such a talented individual. RJ, you’ve got a new fan!
ARCADE (DARKFIELD) | REVIEW BY STACEY BROWN
It’s a rare and exciting departure from conventional theatre that pushes the boundaries of art. ARCADE by DARKFIELD offers an unforgettable adventure that stays with you long after you’ve left the container.
RAT TAILS (EDINBURGH FRINGE) | REVIEW BY STACEY BROWN
Rat Tails by Jeremy McClain is a hilarious and refreshing story about navigating one’s own insecurities as well as a chain of generational trauma. McClain’s theatre and writing debut is creditable and I’m excited to see what he’ll create next. Matt McBrier has done a fantastic job of taking McClain’s story and creating an interesting and engaging performance that has audience’s taking in every word. A must-see this Fringe for sure!
FRANKENSTEIN ON A BUDGET (EDINBURGH FRINGE) | REVIEW BY STACEY BROWN
Frankenstein (On a Budget) is a must-see this year if you love silly fun and random bursts of musical theatre. After the success of their previous shows, Lamphouse continues to demonstrate how to do a lot with a little. Lamphouse’s creativity and resourcefulness is commendable and they really prove that even on a budget, magic can be made on stage.
HAMLET (THE ROYAL LYCEUM THEATRE, EDINBURGH) | REVIEW BY STACEY BROWN
Teatro La Plaza’s Hamlet is a mesmerising blend of Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy and the deeply personal narratives of a remarkable group of performers who have Down’s Syndrome. This unique production goes beyond merely staging the Bard’s work, which so many have done before. This piece is a joyous celebration of art and life.
OEDIPUS REX (SCOTTISH OPERA) | REVIEW BY STACEY BROWN
The Scottish Opera’s Oedipus Rex was a triumph! It blended innovative staging and costumes, impeccable performances, and a setting that played into the themes of prophecy and history. The ancient story of Oedipus was brought vividly to life!
HYSTERICAL (KOI COLLECTIVE) | REVIEW BY SAM EASTOP
Ultimately, the line “Maybe the hysteria was old men we met along the way” is a perfect way to sum up what Koi Collective are doing with Hysterical. This fantastic addition to their roster solidifies them as a Fringe stand-outs. The paying Fringe audience would do well to catch anything Koi Collective put out, as I myself will keep coming back year after year to see what they have in store next.
SARAH HESTER ROSS IS WHAT? (EDINBURGH FRINGE) | REVIEW BY MARCUS LUNDIE
Ross is a feminist through and through, and she lets you know in the best way possible, she effortlessly weaves comedy, music and social issues together to provide a humorous but impactful result with an important message. ‘Abortions are healthcare!’, is one chant we should all be shouting from the rooftops. Her light-hearted energy and humour brings a lot of humanity to these issues but her heart shone through when talking about the overturning of ‘Roe. V. Wade’ , comedy can be a great tool for change and she uses her tools well.
COME FROM AWAY (EDINBURGH PLAYHOUSE) | REVIEW BY LEWIS C. BAIRD
‘Come From Away’ is a musical unlike any other, and whilst the narrative surrounds the harrowing darkness of 9/11, it shows what was found when people thought all was lost. This musical shows humanity at it’s finest in the most stunningly creative way. This is not only the best musical currently touring the UK, but also one of the best pieces of theatre ever made.
HEATHERS (HIS MAJESTY’S THEATRE, ABERDEEN) | REVIEW BY HANNAH COOK
Heathers the Musical is a riotous, neon-fueled ride through the perilous world of high school, blending dark comedy with poignant moments of self-reflection. The UK tour cast delivers strong performances, nailing the show’s balance between biting satire and heartfelt emotion. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the original film or new to the mayhem of Westerberg High, this production leaves you buzzing with its killer tunes and even sharper wit. It’s a wild, wickedly fun reminder that sometimes the only way to survive high school is with a little attitude—and a lot of musical flair.
A DAME OF TWO HALVES (THEM IS BROTHERS COMEDY) | REVIEW BY MATTHEW ATTWOOD
Both acts stand on their own as two well-crafted pantomime pieces and rightfully deserved the standing ovation given by the audience at the end of the evening. The MacNeill brothers are gifted performers who have brilliant comedic timing and know exactly how to keep the audience in the palm of their hand. The production is versatile and was a perfect fit for the black box studio style performance. If you’re a pantomime lover and looking for a fun filled, whacky evening then this is the production for you.
SWEENEY TODD: THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET (BLACKOUT PRODUCTIONS) | REVIEW BY LEWIS C. BAIRD
Blackout Productions’ ‘Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street’ is a staggering production, featuring a talented cast of locals and an incredible artistic vision that poignantly brings the musical to life on stage. This is a production not to be missed, beg, borrow or steal to attend the tale of Sweeney Todd.
THE BOOK OF MORMON (EDINBURGH PLAYHOUSE) | REVIEW BY LEWIS C. BAIRD
‘The Book of Mormon’ remains the funniest musical of the century. This outrageous new touring production features a cast that bursts radiant energy into the show and keeps it fresh for new and revisiting audiences.
A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE
Theatre Scotland 