Sunshine on Leith

Sunshine on Leith is definitely one of the brand of feel-good musicals, tied together with well-known songs from Leith duo Craig and Charlie Reid, aka The Proclaimers.

We see portrayed, the ups and downs of relationships past and present following the return of Davy (Andrew Doig) and Ally (Callum Stott) from a tour of duty in Afghanistan.  Ally returns to his girlfriend Liz (Gillian Hewitt) – Davy’s sister – who, in turn, introduces Davy to her English friend Yvonne (Katy Holligan). Meanwhile Davy & Liz’s Dad, Rab (Thom Hughes) receives a letter from ex-girlfriend Margaret (Adele Ward). To compound matters, Rab’s wife Jean (Karen Richards) discovers the letter in Rab’s wallet and is distraught at his unfaithfulness. Whilst making an effort towards reconciliation Rab suffers a heart attack and finds himself in hospital. Liz - a nurse – visits her Dad on the ward and he makes her promise she will take up the offer of a job in Florida. Similarly, Davy takes his father’s advice and asks Yvonne if “they want to make things work” even if it means living in England!  The Finale sees all happy in his/her own way, Davy & Yvonne, Rab & Liz, Ally re-enlisting in the army and Liz working in Florida.

The principal characters, as mentioned above, all gave sterling performances, bringing together the humour and pathos in the breakdown and rebuilding of relationships. Singing, in particular, was excellent – especially given the high expectancy of songs that are so well known to many of the audience. The ensemble does not have the large presence called for in some older musicals, however, when required they certainly made themselves known – a case in point being the final number “I’m Gonna Be (500 miles)” which had the audience standing and swaying from the first note.

A simple setting, with props and furniture locating each scene was well managed. This, together with video projections on the proscenium wall, allowed for easier recognition of the multiple scenes within the show.

Sound was clear throughout.

Lighting was well designed, with good use being made of tight areas around the stage, allowing for a scene change on one side while action was taking place on the other.

Well done LAMA, I’m sure you have made a lasting relationship with your audience!

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