Capital Theatres to host world premiere of new Scottish musical NESSIE

Capital Theatres will host the world premiere of Nessie, a co-production with Pitlochry Festival Theatre, in The Studio on 28 March 2025, it has been announced.

This brand-new Scottish musical is the first to emerge from the Musicals Commissioning Hub, a partnership between Capital Theatres and Pitlochry Festival Theatre designed to nurture Scottish musicians and writers, support the future ecology of musical theatre and create new musicals for audiences to enjoy.

With a book, music, and lyrics by Glasgow-based composer and musical director Shonagh Murray, Nessie celebrates bravery, the strength of friendship and the courage to follow your heart and will appeal to audiences of all ages.

Set in Bruachness, on the scenic banks of Loch Ness, a place steeped in mystery and folklore, this enchanting tale with magical puppetry focuses on the unlikely bond between Mara, a young biologist, and the legendary Loch Ness Monster —who prefers to be called Nessa.

As news of Nessa spreads, Bruachness is swept into a whirlwind of Monster Mania with tourists flocking to the town, eager to catch a glimpse of the elusive creature. A menacing plot unfolds at the local hydro plant and Mara, Nessa, and their aquatic friends attempt to safeguard the loch and its inhabitants, uncovering the secret of Nessa’s mysterious origins along the way.

The timely theme of the impact we have on our environment and the people we share it with is cleverly explored throughout the gripping tale.

Chief Executive of Capital Theatres, Fiona Gibson, said: “Shonagh captivated us with her ideas and creativity at the first edition of the Musical Commissioning Hub in 2021 and it has been a privilege to support her vision all the way. Bringing new work to Scottish audiences is a key part of Capital Theatres’ purpose and it is a pleasure to partner with Pitlochry Festival Theatre on this exciting journey. Nessie has fascinated generations of people across the globe, so I cannot wait to host the world premiere of this brilliant story at The Studio in March 2025 and for audiences to find out, finally, who the real Nessie is!”

Nessie is part of Capital Theatres’ new season available for priority booking for Friends of Capital Theatres from 4 September at 11am, with general public sale opening on 11 September on 11am. Tickets are available here.