Sunshine on Leith

This was a passionate and well executed show. The whole cast gelled together, moving with ease and creating the story from the opening war sequence to the anniversary celebrations to the troubled relationships through to the heartfelt conclusion. The singing was excellent with some well matched harmonies and every word clearly articulated. Each scene was aided by the video wall, particularly helpful for the opening scene and later resonances of Leith itself. The Proclaimers’ songs were popular with the audience but the delivery by all the principals lifted the show to new heights. Paul Allison Thompson gave a solid performance of the character Davy, bringing out the humour in the training scene and bewilderment when his love interest went awry and learning that his dad could still teach him a thing or two. Comradeship is everything in war as seen in his relationship with Ally played by young newcomer, Aidan Harland. He rounded out an optimistic young man coming home from war. His naivety in surprising Liz with an engagement ring in such a public arena was palpable. Both young men showed quality in their singing and agility. Another slick mover was Amy Campbell as Liz who developed her part as daughter but more tellingly as a character of free and determined spirit. Embracing her singing role with growing confidence she took control of her own life. Olivia Donnet as Yvonne was well matched with Davy conveying the niceties and complexities of their relationship and treating us to fine singing of her own in Then I Met You. Then who could fail to be moved by the predicament of Rab and Jean. Andrew McAteer in his first major role with this company captured the horror and integrity of Rab a man who discovers he has a daughter from a youthful fling. As Jean, Katie Gardiner gained in stature as events unfolded. Her shock of finding this out, undermining her confidence in life, resonated in her singing and body language, especially in Hate My Love, Should Have Been Loved and Sunshine on Leith. Supporting these: in minor roles were Michael Coyne as a wonderfully camp figure, David Young as the glue to several scenes as barman and security guard, and Graeme Scott and Lisa Goldie with a well sung duet; not to mention the energetic Cleaners’ number and a well choreographed fight scene. This show had so much going for it - well known songs, heart rending situations - but enhanced here by a talented cast and memorable for itself, notwithstanding the emotional tug of it being their last performance in this venue. Wonderful entertainment. Congratulations to all.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.