Restless Natives – Leith Theatre

The Clown (Kyle Gardiner) and the Wolfman (Finlay McKillop) ride again, not from Wester Hailes, but tonight (and for the next two weeks, a combination of matinees and evenings) in the stunning setting of a Leith Theatre slowly – but steadily – resurrecting itself. The plot is gently turned from the original celluloid version now standing as one pillar of that mid-80’s quartet (Gregory’s Girl, Comfort & Joy, Local Hero); there’s humorous context given to the situation influencing Ronnie and Will’s decision to head to the Highlands – upon a Suzuki 125 of questionable integrity – in pursuit of rich, vulnerable tourists.

As important to the original film as the script, scenery, plot and characters was Big Country’s music and it’s given a shivers-down-the-spine-pitch-perfect acknowledgment with an opening rendition of ‘In A Big Country’. The cast, without exception, possess the requisite pipes, and it’s a spiritual moment. The lyrics encapsulate the theme and plot of the film; stuff’s shattered, but you can’t stay here or sit still. It’s performed atop a striking set (designer Becky Minto), acted around with no small amount of agility, its basis three sloping plinths and a long cabinet, effectively representing all the varied locations.

Leaving the theatre, the question does arise; should this particular story have been given the musical treatment? Some of the additional songs, witty and comic lyrics springing from the script, punctuate the story too often to those impatiently wanting a return to the plot. But it’s possibly wrong to dwell on this, comparing apples to oranges. A musical is a different beast, unavoidably stepping on the toes of the understated essence of the original. From top to toe this is a great show, an uplifting night at the theatre. There’s not a weak link in the cast, Kyle Gardiner sparkles and Harry Ward drips evil as the unbalanced, unpredictable, unmanageable Nigel, at other points accurately portraying gruff admiration for the miscreants as Will’s father.

‘Stand up, hold my hand’ rang the lyrics of ‘I Walk The Hill’ at the close and the audience obliged.

Reviewer: Roger Jacobs

Reviewed: 7th June 2025

North West End UK Rating: