Sunshine on Leith

This rarely produced show written by Stephen Greenhorn in 2007 contains almost non-stop numbers featuring the distinctive sound of The Proclaimers. Set in Leith, Scotland, it follows the story of Ally and Davy as they return from a tour of duty in Afghanistan and try to get back to some normality with the friends and family that they had left behind. As we enter the theatre atmosphere is created by the background sound of Bagpipes playing. The show opens with some very realistic action in Afghanistan with a group of soldiers all kitted out excellently in full army combat dress.

The principals were well cast and very believable in their roles as the three main couples at the centre of this story. Callum Limer played Davy, with Ada Martin as his girlfriend Yvonne. They both capture their characters perfectly, with a warmth and compassion.  Davy re-adjusting to daily life after leaving the Army and Yvonne wanting to understand if he was serious about their relationship. The other squaddie is Ally played by Dexter Whomes and his girlfriend Liz played by Jess Ellis. Ally wants to settle down with Liz  to a normal  family life, but Liz still wants some excitement and to travel the world. They are excellent in their roles with their individual personalities shining through.  Davy and Liz’s parents are Jean, (Karen Long) and Rab (Paul Eggleston). These two brilliantly portray their roles with impressive performances. A seemingly happy and contented couple, married for 30 years, they bonded very well together but things get very poignant and emotional when their life is suddenly turned upside down. A good piece of theatre from all three couples and with some excellent singing, some with harmonies and  some solos. 

The supporting cast and ensemble, most of whom play numerous characters, had some very quick costume changes all of which worked well. The whole cast gave lively and energetic performances with the never ending list of song and dance numbers, finishing up with the famous Proclaimers song ‘ I'm Gonna Be (500 miles)’, well delivered and much appreciated by their audience.  A rousing and happy ending to a somewhat sad and emotional show.

 Director Kate had done a huge amount of background work for this production. She had organized workshops for the cast to polish up their Scottish accents, and indeed they had all certainly succeeded in keeping these accents going right through the show and in their singing. She had also been up to Scotland taking numerous photos for the background projections which worked very well in establishing the different scenes. She had certainly inspired her cast with her love of this piece of musical theatre. Congratulations must go to MD, Sue, her six piece live orchestra and for the encouragement she gave to all the cast for their songs in the Scottish dialect. Also to Victoria for injecting life and energy through her excellent choreography.

The numerous costumes all looked good and very authentic. The set was changed efficiently,  although I did feel that some of the scene changes, as the cast were bringing on the numerous props and furniture, could possibly have been done with the lights up and the action carrying on around them. The simple set on different levels, all looked good and the sound and lighting enhanced the production.

I have to confess, to not being the greatest fan of the Proclaimers, but it was evident that there were many fans in the audience who showed their appreciation for the music and supported the production with full houses for every performance. Very well done to you all.

Catherine Dixey. NODA East Representative District E12. 

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