Review: SUNSHINE ON LEITH, King’s Theatre Edinburgh

Photo credit: Fraser Band

There’s something in the genetic makeup of a Scot that takes hold when The Proclaimers are played. It’s almost impossible to not join in the “Da da da da” section of ‘500 Miles’ – it’s a knee-jerk reaction. That’s why Sunshine on Leith at the King’s Theatre in Edinburgh is such a joy. An audience of Scots, watching a show about Scots, with music by Scots – it’s so unapologetically Scottish and that makes it very special.

This co-production with Pitlochry Festival Theatre will be the final show performed in the King’s auditorium before it closes for a lengthy refurbishment, and it’s the perfect way to see off the Old Lady of Leven Street, as the theatre’s affectionately known. By the end of the night, the audience is on its feet, singing along to Proclaimers hits as part of the curtain call, and you can’t help but feel this will be the case every night of its run. 

Sunshine on Leith follows two best friends, Ally and Davy, returning home to Edinburgh after a period in the army. We see their relationships with Liz and Yvonne respectively, as well as Davy and Liz’s parents, Jean and Rab, as they approach their 30th wedding anniversary. As co-director Elizabeth Newman sums it up in the programme: “It’s a relationship drama; it’s about different types of love – romantic love, family love, love for friends and love for one’s community.”

This production is performed by an incredibly talented cast of actor-musicians, many of whom were also in the performance of Noises Off we reviewed a few days ago – Pitlochry Festival Theatre is a rep theatre, so the ensemble are in several different shows across the season. Many of the company play multiple instruments, effortlessly switching from piano to guitar to bass all while singing the iconic Proclaimers songs that make up the score. It’s incredibly impressive and really adds a sense of community to the show, particularly in group scenes set in places like pubs – it really feels like we’re there in the pub with the cast, which gives a real cosy warmth to the whole experience.

Newman and co-director Ben Occhipinti get the best out of Stephen Greenhorn’s book, which is full of dry Scottish humour and heart. The cast can really have fun in this, and it shows. Adrian Rees’ set is simple but effective, showcasing the Edinburgh skyline in miniature form. Richard Reeday’s musical direction of David Shrubsole’s new arrangements is inspired – the harmonies are consistently pitch perfect, the accompaniments are well-played, and the overall effect is superb.

As Ally and Davy, Keith Jack and Connor Going are a wonderful pairing. Their voices blend together beautifully and they seem to have a real sense of camaraderie and friendship which translates into their performances. Their girlfriends Liz and Yvonne, played by Blythe Jandoo and Rhiane Drummond, have a little less material to work with, but both are excellent – Jandoo’s performance in ‘Letter to America’ and Drummond’s acoustic, paired-down ‘500 Miles’ are standout moments for both. Keith Macpherson and Alyson Orr as Rab and Jean are very well-matched – they manage the changes from comedy to pathos and tragedy very effectively and round out the main cast with aplomb.

This production really is a love letter to Scotland, which leaves you feeling uplifted and inspired. It’s so worth a watch, even if you have to walk 500 miles to see it! 

***** Five stars

Reviewed by: Lorna Murray

Sunshine on Leith plays at the King’s Theatre in Edinburgh until 18 June, with tickets available here.