PRESS RELEASE
Pitlochry Festival Theatre announces Summer Season 2025
- Pitlochry Festival Theatre Summer Season 2025 to include premières, new musicals, revivals and returning productions.
- Main Auditorium productions to include the musical Grease, produced with Blackpool Grand Theatre, Elizabeth Newman’s new stage adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, co-produced with Derby Theatre; Patrick Barlow’s hilarious adaptation of The 39 Steps and the return of the Theatre’s acclaimed production of Sunshine on Leith.
- The Studio season includes the premières of Kolbrún Björt Sigfúsdóttir This is a Gift, which featured in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s 37 Plays readings in 2023; Milly Sweeney’s new play Water Colour, co-produced with the Byre Theatre; Nessie, a new Scottish musical by Shonagh Murray about the Loch Ness Monster, co-produced with Capital Theatres, and A Toast Fae The Lassies, John Binnie and Alyson Orr’s new musical play that explores the life of Robert Burns through the perspectives of the three women who knew him best. The season will also see the return of the hugely popular Nan Shepherd: Naked and Unashamed, in co-production with Firebrand Theatre Company.
Pitlochry Festival Theatre has today announced an exciting lineup of world premières, smash-hit musicals, and sold-out returning productions for its Summer Season 2025.
The Main Auditorium season 2025 will open with the Pitlochry Festival Theatre and Blackpool Grand Theatre production of the much-loved musical Grease (18 June – 27 September). Step back into the electrifying world of 1950s Rydell High School and follow the whirlwind romance between new girl Sandy Dumbrowski and popular guy Danny Zuko, as they find their summer love challenged by the pressures of teenage life. With iconic songs like Summer Nights, Greased Lightnin’ and You’re the One that I Want, this high-energy show promises a nostalgic journey full of rock ‘n’ roll flair.
Later in June, the Theatre will première Elizabeth Newman’s new adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby (27 June – 25 September). Co-produced with Derby Theatre and directed by their theatre’s Artistic Director Sarah Brigham, this exciting new adaptation brings Fitzgerald’s iconic characters and vivid imagery to life, set against the backdrop of the glitzy and glamourous Jazz Age. One of literature’s most enduring masterpieces, The Great Gatsby captures a world where dreams are grand, yet fleeting, and every moment is a step towards an inevitable reckoning.
July will see a brand-new production of Patrick Barlow’s hit comedy The 39 Steps (11 July – 26 September). Performed by four actors playing over 150 roles, this fast-paced, theatrical adaptation of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic film takes you into a world of espionage, intrigue, and slapstick comedy.
Finally, later in July, due to popular demand, the Main Auditorium will see the return of the Theatre’s smash hit production of Sunshine on Leith (25 July – 27 September), Stephen Greenhorn’s uplifting and moving musical featuring the songs of world-renowned Scottish band The Proclaimers. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Edinburgh, this touching story follows the lives of two soldiers, Davy and Ally, returning home from Afghanistan. As they return to civilian life, they must navigate love, family, and the search for purpose.
The Studio season 2025 will see the première of four exciting new plays and a popular revival. Opening in May will be the Theatre’s co-production with the Byre Theatre of the première of Milly Sweeney’s new play Water Colour (9-17 May). Winner of the St Andrews Playwriting Award, Water Colour is an exploration of mental illness, family, the connection with strangers, and opening yourself up to the world.
The new season in the Studio will also see the welcome return of the sold-out production of Nan Shepherd: Naked and Unashamed (30 May-14 June), co-produced with Firebrand Theatre Company. Richard Baron and Ellie Zeegen’s highly entertaining and moving play reveals how the iconic Scottish author, teacher, hillwalker, and nature lover helped shape Scotland’s recent literary history, and solves the mystery of why her masterpiece, The Living Mountain, lay forgotten in a drawer for over 30 years.
June will see the world première of Kolbrún Björt Sigfúsdóttir’s new play This is a Gift (24 June – 11 Sept). Set in Leith in Edinburgh, This is a Gift is an exploration of class, care and consequences and is a modern take on the Greek myth of Midas. The play was one of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s 37 plays and featured on the longlist for the Women’s Prize for Playwriting.
In July, the Studio, will stage the new Scottish musical Nessie (9 July – 16 August). With Book, Music, and Lyrics by Shonagh Murray, and co-produced with Capital Theatres, Nessie, tells the story of the chance encounter by a young biologist with the Loch Ness Monster and celebrates bravery, the strength of friendship and the courage to follow one’s own heart.
Finally, in August, the Theatre’s Studio space will host the première of John Binnie and Alyson Orr’s new musical play A Toast Fae The Lassies (29 August – 24 September), which explores the life of Robert Burns through the perspectives of the three women who knew him best – his mother Agnes, his wife Jean Armour and his muse and soulmate Clarinda. Featuring Burns’ timeless songs and poetry, including My Love Is Like a Red, Red Rose, Ae Fond Kiss, and Auld Lang Syne, A Toast Fae The Lassies invites the audience to experience the first Burns Night like never before, and highlights how these often overlooked figures shaped the legacy, and contributed to the art of Scotland’s greatest poet.
Elizabeth Newman, Artistic Director of Pitlochry Festival Theatre said:
“I am so excited to share the news of our Summer Season 2025. We’re thrilled to create new productions of classic stories like The 39 Steps, Grease and The Great Gatsby, which will be co-produced with Derby Theatre. We know audiences will be pleased to hear that we are bringing back Nan Shepherd: Naked and Unashamed with Firebrand Theatre Company after its sold-out run, and Sunshine on Leith also returns by popular demand for a short sojourn before it embarks on its initial tour.
But that’s not all—we’re incredibly proud to continue our mission of championing new Scottish work. This season features four brand-new plays, including This is a Gift by Kolbrún Björt Sigfúsdóttir and A Toast Fae The Lassies by John Binnie and Alyson Orr, alongside exciting collaborations like Water Colour by Milly Sweeney with the Byre Theatre and Nessie by Shonagh Murray with Capital Theatres as part of our important Musicals Commissioning Hub. This vibrant array of new work showcases the extraordinary talent within the Scottish theatre community.”
We can’t wait to welcome both familiar faces and new friends to the Theatre next summer, as we continue our journey of sharing Pitlochry with the world and the world with Pitlochry.”
Further information about the casting for the 2025 ensemble and more 2025 production announcements will be made public in the coming months.
Tickets will go on sale to existing Pitlochry Festival Theatre members from Monday 2 September 2024 and on general sale on Monday 16 September 2024. For further information on tickets and productions visit www.pitlochryfestivaltheatre.com or call 01796 484626.
-Ends-
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NOTES TO EDITORS
2025 SEASON DATES
9-17 May – Water Colour – Studio
30 May-14 June - Nan Shepherd: Naked and Unashamed – Studio
18 June – 27 September – Grease – Main Auditorium
24 June – 11 September – This is a Gift – Studio
27 June – 25 September – The Great Gatsby– Main Auditorium
9 July – 16 August - Nessie – Studio
11 July – 26 September – The 39 Steps – Main Auditorium
25 July – 27 September – Sunshine on Leith – Main Auditorium
29 August – 24 September – A Toast Fae The Lassies – Studio
PRESS PERFORMANCES 2025
Wed 14 May at 2.30pm – Water Colour – Studio
Wed 4 June at 2.30pm - Nan Shepherd: Naked and Unashamed – Studio
Friday 20 June at 7pm – Grease – Main Auditorium (Also Sat 21 June at 2pm)
Sat 28 June at 2.30pm – This is a Gift – Studio (Also Thu 3 July at 2.30pm)
Wed 2 July at 2pm – The Great Gatsby– Main Auditorium
Wed 16 July at 2pm – The 39 Steps – Main Auditorium
Thu 17 July at 2.30pm - Nessie – Studio
Wed 30 July at 2pm – Sunshine on Leith – Main Auditorium
Thu 4 September at 2.30pm – A Toast Fae the Lassies – Studio
2025 Pitlochry Festival Theatre Listings
MAY
9-17 May
STUDIO
Presented by Byre Theatre and Pitlochry Festival Theatre
WATER COLOUR
by Milly Sweeney
Winner of the St Andrews Playwriting Award
“The Clyde is made up of three rivers,
two strangers,
one moment.
A moment that starts now.”
Esme is at an all-time low, struggling with her studies and her art. She finds herself standing on the railing of one of the bridges that crosses the Clyde, which leads to a chance encounter with a boy who changes her life forever. A boy who she may never see again. Could Esme now finally find the road to recovery, healing, and self-acceptance?
Meanwhile, Harris is thriving. He is finally moving out of his mum’s house and starting a new job in a high-end restaurant kitchen. One night, whilst walking home from work, he sees a girl about to do something awful. A girl who he may never see again. If Harris were to struggle with his mental health, who would be there for him? Would his mates take him seriously?
Water Colour is a story about connection, mental illness, and opening yourself up to the world.
Eve perf at 8pm:
May: 9, 10, 13, 14, 15, 16 & 17
Mat perf at 2.30pm:
May: 10, 14, 15 & 17
30 May – 14 June
STUDIO
A co-production between Pitlochry Festival Theatre and Firebrand Theatre Company in association with Dr Kerri Andrews
NAN SHEPHERD: NAKED AND UNASHAMED
by Richard Baron and Ellie Zeegen
Nan Shepherd: Naked and Unashamed returns following its huge success at Pitlochry Festival Theatre in 2024. Award-winning Firebrand’s richly entertaining, funny, and moving play uncovers the extraordinary, unconventional woman behind the glamorous portrait on the Scottish five-pound note.
Directed by Richard Baron, whose previous Pitlochry Festival Theatre productions include Chicago, The Last Witch and Heritage.
Spiced with poetry, humour and romance, the play reveals the untold story of how Nan Shepherd’s experiences as author, teacher, hillwalker, and lover helped shape Scotland’s recent literary history; while also solving the mystery of why the manuscript of her ground-breaking masterpiece, The Living Mountain, lay forgotten in a drawer for over 30 years.
Eve perf at 8pm:
May: 30 & 31
June: 3, 4,5, 10, 11 & 12
Mat perf at 2.30pm:
May: 31
June: 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13 & 14
JUNE
18 June-27 September
MAIN AUDITORIUM
A Pitlochry Festival Theatre and Blackpool Grand Theatre production
GREASE
Book, Music and Lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey
Hopelessly Devoted to You and You’re The One That I Want used by arrangement with Robert Stigwood
Step into the electrifying world of 1950s Rydell High School and follow the whirlwind romance between new girl Sandy Dumbrowski and popular guy Danny Zuko, who find their summer love challenged by the pressures of teenage life.
Join Sandy, Danny, and the rest of Rydell High as they navigate the trials and tribulations of high school with their respective cliques—the sassy Pink Ladies and the greaser gang Burger Palace Boys—adding plenty of laughs, drama, and unforgettable musical moments along the way. With iconic songs like Summer Nights, Greased Lightnin’, and You’re the One that I Want, this high-energy show promises a nostalgic journey full of rock ‘n’ roll flair.
Bursting with a vibrant, dynamic, and talented company that capture the essence of teenage exuberance, rebellion and young love, this new version of the timeless classic is told with grit and verve capturing the idealism of the fifties, their dreams, desires, and the journey of self-discovery.
Grease is one of the world’s most popular musicals, and this fresh take on the story is sure to be the one that you want!
Eve perf at 7.30pm
June: 18, 19 & 21
July: 2, 3, 5,16, 19 & 30
August: 5, 15,16, 21,22, 27
September: 5, 12, 18, 23 & 27
Eve perf at 7pm
June: 20
Mat perf at 2pm
June: 21
September: 6, 13 19 & 24
Audio described: 30 July at 7.30pm & 6 August at 2pm
Captioned performance: 23 August at 2pm
Relaxed and Dementia performance: 6 September
24 June – 11 September
THE STUDIO
A Pitlochry Festival Theatre Production
THIS IS A GIFT
By Kolbrún Björt Sigfúsdóttir
If you could have one wish, what would it be?
Zoe is about to head off to university, assuming she’s got the grades. Dad’s gilding business is struggling but they don’t talk about that. Summer is here and everything is about to change. Hopefully.
When Silvain passes out against their door, Zoe and Dad take him in and take good care of him. A simple act of kindness that has unexpected consequences. As a token of his gratitude, Silvain’s friend, Dennis, offers Dad a wish. But all wishes come with a price. Gold does not glitter. Gold just blinds.
An exploration of class, care, and consequences This is a Gift by Kolbrún Björt Sigfúsdóttir is a modern take on the Midas myth set in Leith.
One of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s 37 plays and longlisted for the Women’s Prize for Playwriting, has its world premiere.
Eve perf at 8pm
June: 24, 25
Mat perf at 2.30pm
June: 28
July: 3
September: 5, 11
27 June – 25 September
MAIN AUDITORIUM
A Pitlochry Festival Theatre and Derby Theatre Production
THE GREAT GATSBY
By F. Scott Fitzgerald
Adapted by Elizabeth Newman
Directed by Sarah Brigham
Set in the summer of 1922, this gripping story unfolds in the West Egg district of Long Island. Nick Carraway has moved from the Midwest and soon meets his neighbour the enigmatic Jay Gatsby, who throws lavish parties every night in his opulent mansion to entertain the rich and famous. A self-made millionaire with a mysterious past, Gatsby is desperate to reunite with his lost love, Daisy Buchanan.
A bond forms between Nick and Gatsby, revealing a poignant story of unfulfilled dreams and the relentless pursuit of an impossible happiness. As the narrative progresses, we witness Gatsby’s passionate quest for Daisy, entangled with themes of love, betrayal, and the American Dream. Daisy, torn between Gatsby and her husband Tom, a man of wealth and infidelity, faces heart-wrenching choices that culminate in a tragic finale.
This new adaptation brings F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic characters and vivid imagery to life set against the backdrop of the glitzy and glamourous Jazz Age.
One of literature’s most enduring masterpieces, The Great Gatsby captures a world where dreams are grand, yet fleeting, and every moment is a step towards an inevitable reckoning.
Eve perf at 7.30pm
June: 27 & 28
July: 1, 4, 17, 18 & 31
August: 1, 9, 14, 19
September: 4, 9, 19 & 24
Mat perf at 2pm
July: 2, 5
August: 10, 20 & 30
September: 5, 10, 20 & 25
British Sign Language: 5 September at 2pm
Relaxed and Dementia performance: 20 August at 2pm
Captioned performance: 30 Aug at 2pm
JULY
9 July – 16 August
THE STUDIO
A Capital Theatres and Pitlochry Festival Theatre Production
NESSIE
Book, Music, and Lyrics by Shonagh Murray
Dramaturgy by Tania Azevedo
On the scenic banks of Loch Ness lies the town of Bruachness, a place steeped in mystery and folklore, where the residents live in cautious awe of the legendary Loch Ness Monster, believed to bring misfortune to those who glimpse it. Tales abound of torn fishing nets, capsized boats, and a haunting fog that marks the Monster’s presence. But everything changes when a young biologist named Mara encounters the Monster—who prefers to be called Nessa, thank you very much—and survives to tell the tale.
As news of Nessa spreads, Bruachness is swept into a whirlwind of Monster Mania. Tourists flock to the town, eager to catch a glimpse of the fabled creature. Amidst the growing frenzy, a mysterious mist descends, and a sinister plot unfolds at the local hydro plant. It’s up to Mara, Nessa, and their aquatic friends to safeguard the loch and its inhabitants. Along the way, they might even uncover the secret of Nessa’s origins.
Nessie is a captivating Scottish musical that celebrates bravery, the strength of friendship and the courage to follow one’s own heart.
Mat perf at 2.30pm
July: 9,12, 17,19, 31
August: 2, 7, 9, 14 & 16
11 July – 26 September
MAIN AUDITORIUM
A Pitlochry Festival Theatre production
THE 39 STEPS
By Arrangement with Fiery Angel Limited
Adapted by Patrick Barlow
From the novel by John Buchan
From the movie by Alfred Hitchcock
Licensed by ITV Global Entertainment Limited, and an original concept by Simon Corble and Nobby Dimon
“The 39 Steps” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk
This fast-paced, theatrical adaptation of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic film takes you into the world of espionage, intrigue, and slapstick comedy. The 39 Steps masterfully combines a gripping spy thriller with an uproarious comedy, creating an unforgettable experience.
The story follows the dashing Richard Hannay, who finds himself unwittingly embroiled in a mysterious plot after a chance encounter with a beautiful spy. When she is suddenly murdered in his apartment, Hannay is framed and forced to go on the run. With the police hot on his trail and a dangerous spy organisation called ‘The 39 Steps’ on his heels, Hannay races across Britain to clear his name and save the country from a sinister conspiracy.
With ingenious staging and four talented actors playing over 150 characters, switching roles and costumes at breakneck speed, this whirlwind physical comedy promises an unforgettable experience.
This fast-paced and comedic tour-de-force brings a beloved classic story to life in the most unexpected and delightful ways.
Eve perf at 7.30pm:
July: 11, 12 & 15
August: 2, 7, 12, 20, 28
September: 2, 6, 11 & 25
Mat perf at 2pm:
July: 16
August: 13, 21
September: 3, 12 & 26
Captioned performance: 21August at 2pm
Audio described: 3 September at 2pm
Relaxed and Dementia performance: 12 September at 2pm
British Sign Language performance: 17 September at 2pm
25 July – 27 September
MAIN AUDITORIUM
A Pitlochry Festival Theatre production
SUNSHINE ON LEITH
A Musical written by Stephen Greenhorn
Featuring the songs of The Proclaimers
New Musical Arrangements by David Shrubsole
Original production at Dundee Rep on 18 April 2007
Presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International
Originally conceived in partnership with Capital Theatres
Due to popular demand, this uplifting and moving musical with unforgettable songs by The Proclaimers returns to delight audiences. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Edinburgh, this touching story follows the lives of two soldiers, Davy and Ally, returning home from Afghanistan. As they return to civilian life, they must navigate love, family, and the search for purpose.
Davy reunites with his childhood sweetheart, Yvonne, while Ally rekindles his romance with Davy’s sister, Liz. Their relationships are tested by the challenges of readjusting to everyday routines and the secrets they carry from their time abroad. Amidst the joy and struggles, they rediscover the strength of family bonds and the power of love.
Filled with beloved hits like I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles), Letter from America, and Sunshine on Leith, this musical captures the essence of resilience and the unbreakable spirit of the human heart. With captivating performances, dynamic choreography, and a heartfelt narrative, Sunshine on Leith promises a night of emotional highs and unforgettable music.
Come and experience this joyous musical celebrating life, love, and home lifting your heart and leaving you humming its infectious tunes long after the curtain falls.
Eve perf at 7.30pm:
July: 25, 26, 29
August: 6, 13, 23 & 26
September: 3, 13, 17, 20 & 26
Mat perf at 2pm:
July: 30
September: 14 & 27
Audio described & Captioned: 14 September at 2pm
AUGUST
29 August – 24 September
THE STUDIO
Pitlochry Festival Theatre Production
A TOAST FAE THE LASSIES
Written by John Binnie
Musical Arrangements and Additional Music by Alyson Orr
Poetry and Songs by Robert Burns
It is January 25, 1797, in the quiet graveyard of Dumfries, and Agnes Burns is remembering her recently departed son, Robert Burns. Her solemn visit is interrupted by an unexpected encounter with Jean Armour, Robert’s widow, and mother to his nine children. The two women, bound by a shared history and unresolved tensions, clash as they come face-to-face.
Unbeknownst to them, a mysterious figure watches from the shadows – Clarinda, Burns’ muse, and soulmate, who has brought a dram to honour her beloved Rabbie. Each woman recalls the ploughman poet in her own distinct way, and through his songs they recount their stories.
This dynamic new musical play explores the life of Robert Burns through the perspectives of the three women who knew him best. It highlights how these often-overlooked figures shaped the legacy and contributed to the art of Scotland’s greatest poet.
Featuring Burns’ timeless songs and poetry, including My Love Is Like a Red, Red Rose, Ae Fond Kiss, and Auld Lang Syne, A Toast Fae the Lassies invites you to experience the first Burns Night like never before.
Eve perf at 8pm
August: 29 & 30
September: 10 & 24
Mat perf at 2.30pm:
September: 4, 18
Pitlochry Festival Theatre. A Theatre for Everyone. A Theatre for a Lifetime.
Since 1951, Pitlochry Festival Theatre has been the artistic heart and soul of Highland Perthshire. Attracting over 100,000 visitors every year, we are more than simply a place to see a show – we are Scotland’s leading producer of musical theatre, a champion of ensemble practice and the country’s only rurally-located, major arts organisation. Our vision is to improve lives by sharing Pitlochry with the world and the world with Pitlochry, and our aim is to create life-enhancing experiences in our Theatre its and environment – a glorious eleven-acre campus that encompasses the magical Explorers Garden. In everything we do, we are committed to nurturing an exciting creative and cultural future for Scotland.
Pitlochry Festival Theatre is supported by funding from Creative Scotland and Perth & Kinross Council. It is also grateful to the many individual donors, trusts and foundations who continue to support the Theatre in its vision.
Pitlochry Festival Theatre is supported by the following organisations:
