Showing in theSpace on the Mile at the Edinburgh Fringe, Stick Together is a grassroots musical written and co-directed by Gabby Blackie. Set in Perthshire, we follow the journey of three field hockey players who have trapped themselves in the locker room. The surrounding area is overrun with zombies and with no sign of ZPS (Zombie Protection Services) the girls are forced to stick it out until morning despite growing tensions amongst the group.
As the musical unfolds, we discover that Zara (Gracie Spencer) is massively crushing on Hazel (Madeline Gilroy). But with Zara’s hot-headed, defensive attitude – mostly directed towards new-girl Keelie (Kate Santos), Zara can’t help but push Hazel away in the process. Spoiler, they do end up together after singing it out numerous times. Spencer masterfully expresses her character’s internal struggle, clearly laying out both her intentions and opposing actions, allowing for empathy towards the complexity of her character. With Spencer featuring in the majority of solo numbers, we really get a good chance to appreciate her powerhouse vocals as she takes us on an emotional journey. Gilroy and Spencer’s chemistry is incredibly endearing, with the duo perfectly capturing the innocence and uncertainty that comes with teenage yearning. The pair are very likeable, making us really root for their happy ending. Gilroy brings a lighthearted humour to combat the intensity of her fiery counterparts, playing into the awkwardness of the situation and acting as the group’s mediator. Her comedic delivery is unmatched. Finally, we have Santos, who performs with such an assured presence, giving us emotional and genuine delivery, especially in her monologue in which she shares the harrowing details of her past. Each actor holds their own whilst also balancing and bouncing off of each other’s energy.
Blackie’s composition allows all of the girl’s vocals to shine through, featuring catchy, witty numbers as well as heart-wrenching ballads. In the group numbers, Blackie and co-director Clara Ciusca’s work really shows, with tight harmonies, punchy delivery, and blocking that lends itself to the humorous moments of the piece – most notably when Gilroy shuffles around the stage in full goalie kit – everything is silent except for the squeaking of her padding and something about that really amused me.
Stick Together is such a touching piece of theatre that has both an exceptionally talented cast, as well as really personable writing, with songs that captivate, and a wholesome queer love story to top it all off. To me, this is a perfect show to round off the Fringe with.
Stick Together runs until the 23rd of August at theSpace on the Mile, with tickets available at https://www.thespaceuk.com/shows/2025/
Reviewer: Jessie Martin
Reviewed: 18th August 2025
North West End UK Rating:
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