Sunshine on Leith

With M.D. Angus Lawson and his beautifully supportive 7 piece band being positioned at the rear of the stage, and with a cast of over 50 to accommodate, innovative Director Callum McLeod took the bold decision to compensate by increasing the acting space by introducing a catwalk–like extension into the auditorium thus bringing some of the action into the heart of the audience. This worked particularly well in the company numbers such as the opening “Sky Takes The Soul”, “I’m On My Way” and the finale “I’m Gonna Be (500 miles)” but also in some of the more intimate scenes between Davy and Yvonne. As the demobbed army buddies adjusting to civilian life Ally (Garry Collins) and Davy (Gregor Lawson) both gave very strong performances portraying the strong bond of friendship and also the struggles they faced. Equally strong performances were give by the women in their lives. Liz played by Natalie Munro, Davy’s sister and Ally’s girlfriend, gave an excellent portrayal of a young woman torn between her love for her family and her ambitions for a more exciting live. Yvonne played by Amy Lowe, Davy’s girlfriend, too gave an excellent portrayal of a young women struggling with her emotions. All four of the young principals had strong singing voices and I particularly liked Davy and Yvonne’s duet “Misty Blue”. Lesley Mitchell and Sandy Duncan as Davy and Liz’s parents Jean and Rab were truly convincing as the long time married couple who despite their bickering and troubles were supported by a deep seated love for each other. This was demonstrated in their solos “Oh Jean” by Rab at their anniversary party and Jean’s “Sunshine on Leith” at Rab’s hospital bedside. Their rapport was even more remarkable as Sandy had only stepped into the role with two weeks notice. Strong support was given by Annabelle Lock as Rab’s illegitimate daughter Eilidh whose sudden appearance in their lives caused much upset. The large ensemble singing was extremely strong and their movement was excellent. The set was simple allowing the action to flow seamlessly between the many scenes. Congratulations to everyone involved for an excellent production.

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