Sunshine on Leith

A glut of soap box musicals came out of the Noughties to become films and stage musicals, of which Sunshine on Leith arrived as a film with Jane Horrocks in 2002 and as the musical written by Stephen Greenhorn along with the distinctive sound of the Proclaimers in 2007.

Set in Leith, it follows the fortunes of Ally and Davy who return from Afghanistan after a tour of duty with the army, to find that life has changed for the family and friends they left behind.

The cast were altogether very effective, Rhodri Denton as Davy and Amy Parker as Yvonne, played the squaddie and the nurse with sweet sincerity and complimented each other, particularly in the moving number “Then I Met You”.  They were ably matched by Matthew McAuley as Ally and Rebekah Dean as Liz.  Both couples were strong vocally and believable in their roles.

Particularly impressive and moving were the performances of Liz Woolley and Simon Parker, as Rab and Jean, the parents who had happily coped with life’s foibles for 30 years of marriage, until Eilidh, played by Becky Morley, turns up.  She is the daughter that Rab never knew he had after a tryst with her mother earlier on in his marriage. Rab and Jean`s interaction was excellently worked and Liz`s song “What Do You Do?” was a delight, as was Rab`s “Life with You”, sung with Davy and Ally.  The hospital scene was quite riveting and moving.

The cast deserve great credit for the energetic and enthusiastic delivery of the Proclaimers` music, and great that they all managed to maintain Scottish accents throughout.     

The climax of the evening showcased The Proclaimers most famous song 500 Miles, was well and truly delivered as the cast belted it out to the audience, and the audience responded and clapped right back.  A rowdy, happy ending. 

Adam Guest`s direction made the most of the story.  Making his debut as Musical Director Ryan Latham handled the eight-piece orchestra admirably.  This was also Emma Lamont`s first time choreographing for LEOS.  She introduced a whole range of Scottish dance moves, which the predominantly young cast handled very well.

The in-house set of a bridge with two staircases was built by Roydon Charlesworth and was most effective.  Lighting was by David Price and Sound by Sam Lenord.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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