Category: Brett Herriot Review

**** (4 Stars)

“Full of Heart and Pride! ”

After all the celebrations The King’s Theatre Edinburgh inaugural autumn and winter season, since its transformation,  gets underway with a programme of productions that celebrate the best of Scotland across the generations which makes Raw Materials new hip hop musical “Wallace” an excellent choice and Edinburgh audiences get an exclusive preview of the show as its not scheduled to tour fully until autumn 2027.

Written by Rob Drummond with music and lyrics by hip hop award winning artist and DJ Dave Hook, this is a musical that’s heavily influenced by the great Lin-Manuel Miranda (In the Heights and Hamilton) and tells the story of the life of Scotland’s greatest advocate for independence and freedom William Wallace (1270- 1305).

Most people will only know the story of Wallace thanks to the 1996 Mel Gibson motion picture “Braveheart” the only problem being that the movie was mostly fabrication for dramatic purposes, this stylish musical lifts the lid on the real Wallace and the first war of Scottish independence from his stunning win at the Battle of Stirling Bridge to a shocking defeat at the Battle of Falkirk which lead to his death at the hands of King Edward the 1^st.

This is a musical that’s full of  heart and pride on wears it proudly on its sleeve, and engages from the off by not being a history lesson with musical but a powerfully written piece that draws comparisons between the World of Wallace in the 13^th Century and our modern world were those who are enriched and in positions of power continue to launch futile wars its aft sobering and emotional.

Performances from the six strong cast, Madeline Grieve “Wummin”, Dave Hook “DJ/Wallace”, Kimberly Mandindo “Wummin”, Ross Mann “Scotsman”, Patricia Panther “Wummin” and Manasa Tagica “Sassenach” are excellent all deliver flawless turns soaked in hip hop rhythms to great effect.

Production wise it’s a fabulous set design from Neil Haynes which is brought to even further vivid life by Derek Andersons full throttle lighting design. Garry Boyle sound design is equally as good but given much of the score is delivered by Hook’s live DJ skills it’s probably easier to get such a good balance. Victoria Brown costume design also triumphs in blending historic period piece with hip hop flavours in abundance.

Wallace was developed as part of Oran Mor’s A Play, A Pie and a Pint series  and at times the show still feels like it’s a work in development and while O’Loughlin’s direction is pacey the piece especially in act seems a little bloated and with a brief act 2 perhaps it should be performed as a one act musical but that could change as the show continues to develop.

Wallace is filled with adult language and truly embodies the spirit of hip hop although it also includes rock and pop in its score the show is truly engaging leaving catchy tunes in the memory long after the curtain falls. The greatest joy of the show is the way it holds up a mirror to today. For a man who died 721 years ago what have we has a humanity and society learnt from his life? As it appears for too many those In power continue to make the same mistake.

One thing that is no mistake is splashing out on a ticket for this show as you will leave royally entertained and I’m excited to see how the show develops ahead of its full tour next year.

Wallace A Musical, The King’s Theatre, Edinburgh until Saturday 3^rd October 2026. For more information and tickets go to: Wallace – Capital Theatres

**** (4 Stars)

“A Glittering Compassionate Encounter”

Wladziu Valentino Liberace known to the world as simply “Liberace” passed away nearly forty years ago; he died as he lived a walking contradiction. A man who lived a lie in full view of the world that would see him attain the title “Mr Showmanship”. While his talent was never in doubt, his private life became something of a legend that would see the pianist not only hurt all those he fell in love with, but most strikingly of all he hurt himself the most.

Forming part of Alan Cumming’s inaugural season as artistic director of Pitlochry’s Festival Theatre, Cumming makes his co-directorial debut alongside Ben Occhipinti with the world debut of “I’ll being Seeing You” written by the critically acclaimed Martin Sherman (whose greatest work “Bent” is approaching its 50^th Anniversary) with Sherman also making his professional acting debut at 87.

The play goes far beyond the depth of the 2013 HBO movie to find out what really lay behind the candelabra and discover the man who was so staunchly conservative in his political and religious beliefs that he would hide his obvious self-evident homosexuality behind a series of remarkable lies. Liberace could have made a difference in a massive way but chose rampant Capitalism and bathing in jewels, glitter and celebrity instead.

Sherman’s script is wonderfully executed, shining the light of the modern era via the role of “Writer” played with dexterity by Free Fee his performance really sums up the clash between the world of today and the world of Liberace’s life. Examining the court cases “Liberace sued the Daily Mirror for implying he was homosexual and remarkably won the case” That reflection is transposed later in the play with Martin Sherman himself taking over the role of the “Writer”, so both sides of the argument are given full view.

Performances are excellent and Bafta, Tony and Olivier award winner Simon Russell Beale gives a tour de force turn as Liberace completely immersing himself in the role he sparkles behind the piano but equally revels in delivering a truly conflicted and flawed human being. Fra Fee delivers a knockout turn as the younger “Writer” with great physicality while Sherman’s elder “Writer” giving a deeply emotional performance. Its this central character pairing that carries a play which is very much a glittering compassionate encounter of the gay generations.

Joining the leads are Anne Lacey in a comedic joy filled turn as Mother/Heidi, Ali Watt as Chauffeur/Hunk (a thinly disguised Scott Thorsen) and Adam Kashmiry as Hunk all of who shine in there moments in the spotlight with Ali Watt’s “Hunk” giving the audience much to think about as it clear Thorsen was the love of Liberace’s life but what a price he paid.

Production wise the show is highly impressive, Tim Hatley’s design captures the glitter and sequins and flying of the high points of Liberace professional life but balances it with dour reality of the “writers” flat with guile, ease and style. This is boosted by Grant Anderson’ stellar lighting design that has the wow moments balanced perfectly with dark reflective ones.

While Cumming’s and Occhipinti direction is free flowing and harnesses the comedy to make the truthful moments even more shocking. There does feel at times the play is a little bloated and could be achieved in an hour in a production which is running at one hour and twenty minutes.

That being said; The theatre in the hills is producing a stellar season and “I’ll be seeing you” is corner stone of that creative flair for telling the story of a man who was once the most famous man in the world but is now condemned to this history books as flawed human being  who hid his sexuality and Aids diagnosis behind a wall of lies that would ultimately tumble down on him in death.

Funny, Taught and emotionally open this a stellar piece of dramatic theatre that hopefully has more life ahead following its run at Pitlochry for now grab those tickets.

I’ll Be Seeing You, Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Pitlochry until Sunday 11^th October 2026. For more information and tickets go to: I’ll Be Seeing You | Pitlochry Festival Theatre

**** (4 Stars)

“Anarchic Delight!”

It’s a rare treat to be able to see a production of Richard O’Brien’s Legendary Rocky Horror show outside the confines of the professional touring production as the rights have been tightly controlled since the show’s inception back in 1973 where it debuted at the Royal Court Theatre Upstairs in London.

53 year later following numerous productions and of course the beloved movie adaptation Rocky Horror continues to entertain the globe with its heavy mix of sexual liberation, tribute to the b-movie pastiche, audience participation and good old rock and roll!

Edinburgh University Theatre Company bring the show to the intimate Bedlam Theatre and deliver a production that’s filled with anarchic delight. Even with director Hunter King’s choice to use a more gender-blind approach to casting, there are moments that shine and capture the heart and essence of Rocky Horror more fully than the current UK tour does.

Performances are overall excellent with Lil Hodge leading the company as Dr Frank ‘N’ Furter they deliver a performance that’s dripping in knowing sexual lust, but it does need more of an injection of masculinity to sell the fact Frank is a sweet transvestite and sexually open to all comers. That being said, Hodge belts out the songs with a stunningly strong vocal.

Charlotte Senior and Max Middleton play the stories central star-crossed lovers Janet Weiss and Brad Major in fabulous style harnessing the comedy, great vocals and a sense of innocence with easy.

Dani J Bryant is a revelation as Riff Raff, enshrewing a slight nod to Richard O’Brien’s original creation but taking it out in the comedic universe with a honey soaked vocal they practically steal the show with there high energy performance. The same is true of Bea Lermite and Gemma Leach as Magenta and Columbia respectively they really get there characters over in great style.

Also making the most of there stage time are Oliver Mason “Narrator”, Aisling Ni Dhochartaigh “Dr Scott”, Ewan Robertson “Eddie” and Hattie Summers as “The Usherette” they bring joy and dedication to their performances and Oliver Mason in particular handles the audience shout outs with ease.

The true highlight of the show is Frank ’N ‘ Furter’s creation “Rocky” played by the gorgeous Josh Chamberlin and while he might not be the body builder type used in the professional production, he brings a charm, wonderful physicality and stunning vocal ability to the role. Its almost a cheeky Chappy interpretation with a wonderful dash of innocence and he doesn’t look half bad in a Basque and stockings too boot.

The principals are joined by an 8 strong ensemble of ghouls who revel in delivering Naomi Jessiman’s inventive choreography. Hunter Kings direction is fast paced and really latches into soul of the piece and it’s wonderful to see the full show being performed rather than the heavily abridged pro tour.

Production wise the team acquit themselves well with Kiran Mukherjee’s lighting design making the best of the space although could be sharper on the cues especially during lighting strikes. Eric Rogers Sound design does work despite a few glitches and achieves a great balance across musical director Emily Smith 6 strong on-stage band with special mention going to James Reinhardt on Tenor Saxophone who puts the cherry on the cake of this show.

This is really a student company production that revels in the heart of the show and produces a truly entertaining evening of musical entertainment although its only Max Middleton as Brad Majors who dawns the high heels at any point! A Cuban or cowboy heel does not make a stiletto! But you can’t help but be won over by the sheer enthusiasm of the company and with cheep bar in the venue this is a riot of fun night out! You won’t go wrong in hitting the Bedlam and doing the time warp if you can get a gold dust return ticket.

Richard O’Brian’s, The Rocky Horror Show! The Bedlam Theatre, Edinburgh Runs until Saturday 26^th September 2026. Including special midnight performances, SOLD OUT For more information and return tickets go to: Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show | Bedlam Theatre

***** (5 Stars)

“A cornucopia of musical delights”

Showcase musical production affectionally known as just Showcase came to life over 40 years ago with the aim of raising essential funds for MacMillan Cancer Support which to date has seen them donate over £300,000 to the cause.

For the last at least 20 of those years Director Andy Johnston, Musical Director David McFarlane and Choreographer Claire Smith have perfected the formula that has seen the annual musical extravaganza taken to the heart of the people of Edinburgh and beyond.

Showcase 2026: Dream as one see’s that formula brought bang up to date in as stellar production that provides a cornucopia of musical delights. In a show that’s thrilling, moving and above all else endlessly entertaining.

Showcase is essentially a patch work quilt of musical styles borrowing from Rock, Pop, Musical Theatre, The Cinema and even opera gets a look in. With an impressively large cast, a whirlwind of costume changes, a dazzling lighting design and the most magical ingredient a simply outstanding 15 strong pit orchestra under the baton of David McFarlane himself.

Highlights of this year’s programme are a blistering opening tribute to S Club 7 with Matt Fullerton giving his vocals true gusto. John Innes turns in an almost operatic take on legendary Elvis Presley’s “Always on my mind”. The shows title “Dream as one” from the film Avatar Fire and Ice is given an inspiring interpretation from Heather Gore and the entire chorus that captures the audiences heart.

As is tradition for the company the first act is closed out by a selection of songs taken from the musical theatre. Special credit goes to Fullerton again for a finely judged take on “A Musical” from Something Rotten. Laura Cross is also in fine form and voice with an emotional rendition of “These are the days of our lives” from We will Rock You.

Act 2 see’s the company really step it all up a gear opening with a section marked “Shamrock ‘n’ roll that’s a collection of Irish Celtic infused numbers that see’s Ross MacTaggart delivering a punchy “Bring on Tomorrow” from choir of man and beautifully emotional take on “Falling Slowly” from Once from Arlene Tonner and Craig Young.

A spin through Divas thru the Decades follows with Kim Brydon revelling in the Cher classic “Believe” this is followed by a “Strictly Pet Shop Boys” a clever mash up of Tennant and Lowe classics with McFarlane delivering a stoater of a musical arrangement to go with it.

The show concludes on an emotional high point with a finale that pays tribute to the Late Dolly Parton and Bonnie Tyler followed by the companies signature song Brian Wilson’s “Love and Mercy” performed by the chorus with the stellar Clare Clayton on lead vocal which sees the curtain fall on a show that’s studded with musical Jewels throughout.

Production wise its another triumph with Andy Johnston’s lighting design adding real west end flair accompanied by Ian Cunningham’s finally judged sound design ensuring a great balance between orchestra and performers. Special credit to him for ensuring the small 6 strong male ensemble punch well above their weight throughout. Claire Smith’s choreography makes the most of the limited space of the church hill stage and the large number of performers and she ensures the solo dance moments for her core du dance really does shine.  Mhairi Summers puts the cherry on the cake with a full throttle wardrobe design that gives the 2026 edition of Showcase a fresh contemporary feel.

Showcase 2026: Dream as one deliver’s everything it should and so much more with a perfectly judged programme, stunning performances and with the knowledge that by just buying a ticket and being royally entertained your making a difference to someone else’s life and what can be more joyous than that! So, rush to the Church Hill Theatre and grab what few tickets remain. This years show really is Showcase on exceptionally fine form. Wonderful Stuff!

Showcase 2026: Dream as One, Church hill theatre Runs until Saturday 26th September 2026. For more information and tickets go to: Showcase Edinburgh

**** (4 Stars)

“Ture Quality and Class!”

Annie the musical can trace its roots back over a century to the original comic strip “Little orphan Annie” published in 1924. 50 years later the story was finally adapted into a musical with music by Charles Strouse, Lyrics by Martin Charnin and book by Thomas Meehan. Opening in 1977 at the Alvin Theatre (now the Neil Simon Theatre) on Broadway the show featuring the smash hits “Tomorrow” and “Hard Knock Life” has become beloved by generations of children and theatre goers.

Telling the rags to riches story of Annie Bennet the little orphan who seeks her parents but ultimately discovers her truth and a life with Millionaire Daddy Warbucks all the while out foxing the nasty Miss Hannigan and her brother Rooster and his lover Lily St Regis has enjoyed numerous productions over the years including London’s west end and various UK and US Tours as well motion picture adaptations.

In 2015 critically acclaimed producers Michael Harrison and David Ian for Crossroads secured the rights to the show and developed a brand-new production directed by the award winning director of the Leicester Curve, Nikolai Foster, the show would prove to be a smash it, opening at Newcastle’s Theatre Royal in 2015 its enjoyed two UK tours plus a lengthy run in London’s west end at the Piccadilly Theatre.

Following a covid enforced break the show was remounted for a tour in 2023 and visited Edinburgh with the late great Paul O’Grady giving his final stage performances at Miss Hannigan, now the production is back for a New UK tour with La Voix and the incredible Claire Sweeney sharing the role of Hannigan and Edinburgh gets Claire Sweeney who delivers an impeccable and physically ripe performance.

Performances across the board are excellent with Sweeney leading the company in style bringing out the right amount vitriol as Hannigan, Christian Copper as Rooster gives the character a slimy smarminess but could be a little more rich in his villainy. Tanisha-Mae Brown as Grace Farrell is a joy bringing honey-soaked vocals and an inner strength that makes the Character shine.  Bringing a true does of west end leading man is the Great Alex Bourne as Daddy Warbucks he delivers in spades giving Warbucks real heart and a stunning voice in equal measure.

Turning to the children the production deploys three teams of 6 orphans plus four young actors in the role of Annie, on press night June Young took the honours of playing “Annie” and what a triumph she is! You can’t help but fall in love with her and a big career awaits this talented youngster.

Production wise this is a west end worthy show with Colin Richmond’s Set and Costume design being of sumptuous quality and clearly borrows the flavours of “Matilda” to great effect. Ben Cracknell’s Lighting design is everything and more that you would expect from this gifted designer. Richard Brookers sound design is pure quality ensuring a perfect blend between on stage performers and musical director Nick Tudor’s stealthy eight strong pit band.

Nikolai Foster’s direction ensures a swift pacing but act one does lack a little oomph but this is made up for in a blistering act 2 that hurtles through the story to a satisfying conclusion. Which is followed by a hearty sing along of “Tomorrow” as cast and audience join in a glorious celebration.

 Annie remains an eternal favourite and this production brings true quality and class to the stage as it proves that for all of us if we believe hard enough the sun really will come out tomorrow! So, head to the Playhouse and grab a ticket for a little hard knock life yourself!

Annie, Edinburgh Playhouse, Runs until Sunday 20^th September 2026. For more information and tickets go to: Annie Tickets | Edinburgh Playhouse in Edinburgh | ATG Tickets

The production will visit Aberdeen, His Majesty’s Theatre Tuesday 3^rd to Sunday 8^th November 2026 and The King’s Theatre Glasgow, Tuesday 2^nd to Sunday 7^th March 2027. UK Tour continues.