Theatre News

”Sunshine on Leith” to be revived this winter

Alex Wood

Alex Wood

| |

9 May 2023

The last production of Sunshine On Leith, co-produced by the venue with Capital Theatres
The last production of Sunshine On Leith, co-produced by the venue with Capital Theatres
© Fraser Band

Pitlochry Festival Theatre is gearing up to present a new production of the beloved musical Sunshine on Leith this winter, featuring the iconic songs of Scottish band The Proclaimers.

The production, which will be directed by the theatre’s artistic director, Elizabeth Newman, runs from 17 November to 23 December, and tickets go on sale to the general public on 17 May.

The show follows the story of two returning soldiers, Davy and Ally, as they navigate the challenges of civilian life, relationships, and new responsibilities. It features hit songs like “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles),” “Letter from America,” and the titular “Sunshine on Leith.”

The musical was originally staged at Dundee Rep in 2007 before being adapted into a successful feature film in 2013, starring Jane Horrocks and Peter Mullan. Last year, Pitlochry Festival Theatre and Capital Theatres co-produced a sold-out run of Sunshine on Leith in Edinburgh.

Newman said today: “We are thrilled to announce that we are creating a brand-new version of Sunshine on Leith to entertain audiences this Christmas.

“After the hugely successful sold-out production that we made with Capital Theatres last summer we couldn’t resist the chance to make a new production for audiences this festive season to celebrate the greatest and most loved Scottish musical by Stephen Greenhorn. Once again, Stephen will be joining me in rehearsals along with a cracking company of actors who’ll be singing their hearts out to the awesome Proclaimers classic hit songs.”

Capital Theatres CEO Fiona Gibson also shared her enthusiasm for the show’s return, saying that Sunshine on Leith holds a particular significance for us at Capital Theatres…This new production, directed by the hugely talented Elizabeth Newman, will bring absolute joy and musical delight to many this winter.”

In addition to Sunshine on Leith, the theatre’s autumn season will also feature the world stage premiere of Cathy Forde’s new play Helping Hands, directed by Pitlochry Festival Theatre’s associate director Ben Occhipinti.

Further information about casting for Sunshine on Leith will be announced in the coming months.

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