Pitlochry Festival Theatre, the renowned hub of creativity nestled amidst the picturesque Scottish landscape, has just unveiled its ever highly-anticipated lineup for the summer of 2024. Showcasing a vibrant mix of world premieres, beloved musicals, and returning favourites, this season promises to be an unforgettable journey through the performing arts. From May 31st to September 26th, the hills will come alive with the magic of music, drama, and talent.
A Footloose Start
Kicking off the season with boundless energy and infectious rhythm is the stage revival of “Footloose.” Co-produced by Pitlochry Festival Theatre and New Wolsey Theatre, this production promises to be a sensational tribute to youth, love, and life. Based on the iconic 1984 Oscar-nominated film starring Kevin Bacon, “Footloose” promises to take audiences on a dance-filled journey. The production will later transfer to the New Wolsey Theatre in October 2024.
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical
In early June, theatre enthusiasts can look forward to “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.” This Tony and Grammy Award-winning show chronicles the inspiring true story of Carole King’s remarkable rise to stardom. From her early days as part of a songwriting duo with her husband Gerry Goffin to her solo career, the musical features King’s iconic songs, including “You’ve Got a Friend” and “Natural Woman.” You can read theQR’s review of the stunning production of the musical which last visited Edinburgh in 2022.
Sense and Sensibility with a Modern Twist
June will also bring an exciting world premiere to the Main Auditorium stage – “Sense and Sensibility.” This adaptation, crafted by award-winning playwright Frances Poet, hopes to breathe new life into Jane Austen’s iconic novel. Set in a world of secrets, suppression, lies, and seduction, this witty adaptation promises to captivate the hearts of audiences. Following its run in Pitlochry, “Sense and Sensibility” will transfer to the Roman Theatre of St Albans through July and August 2024.
Shirley Valentine’s Return
For those seeking heartwarming laughter and transformative journeys, “Shirley Valentine” makes a triumphant return to the stage. Written by Willy Russell, this beloved comedy tells the story of a middle-aged, working-class Liverpool housewife whose life takes an unexpected turn during a holiday in Greece. Sally Reid, who earned acclaim for her role, reprises the title role in this award-winning production.
Studio Premieres
Pitlochry Festival Theatre’s Studio will host two exciting premieres. “Nan Shepherd: Naked and Unashamed,” co-produced with Scotland’s Firebrand Theatre Company, explores the life of the iconic Scottish author, hillwalker, and nature lover, Nan Shepherd. Discover the mystery of why her masterpiece, “The Living Mountain,” remained hidden for over three decades.
In August, audiences can experience the world premiere of Harry Mould’s debut play, “The Brenda Line.” Inspired by real-life events and the history of the Samaritans in the 1970s and 80s, this touching story delves into themes of women, love, and listening.
The Amphitheatre and Opera
The Theatre’s enchanting Amphitheatre, nestled within the Explorers Garden and beneath the majestic Ben-y-Vrackie, hosts two productions. Elizabeth Newman’s sold-out adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s cherished classic, “The Secret Garden,” returns for an extended run, promising to transport audiences into a world of wonder and magic.
Additionally, the Theatre joins forces with the Scots Opera Project to present a Gaelic and Scots Language version of Purcell’s baroque masterpiece, “Dido and Aeneas.” This tale of doomed love will feature professional opera singers and the powerful voices of a community company, in pursuit of a unique and unforgettable experience.
A Message from Elizabeth Newman, Artistic Director
“A time to mourn… and there is a time to dance… See, this is our time to dance. It is our way of celebrating life.”
These words, famously spoken by Kevin Bacon in the 1984 film of Footloose, sit at the very heart of our 2024 Pitlochry Festival Theatre Summer Season… All this work, in its own distinct way, celebrates love and our collective desire to feel music deep in our soul, rhythm to take over our bodies, and our need to connect with the world around us.
Plan Your Visit
As the theatre gears up for this remarkable season, be sure to mark your calendars. Season ticket packages for the 2024 season will go on sale to existing Pitlochry Festival Theatre members on October 2, 2023, and to the general public on October 9, 2023. Individual show tickets will be available starting November 13, 2023.
For more information on tickets and productions, visit www.pitlochryfestivaltheatre.com or call 01796 484626.
By
