The Stamping Ground, the new stage musical featuring the hits of Runrig, one of Scotland’s most well-loved bands, is set to hit the road on a Scotland-wide tour later this year, marking 50 years since the band was formed on the Isle of Skye in 1973.
The show, that is a co-production between Raw Material and Eden Court Highlands, first premiered in Inverness in July 2022 to critical acclaim, winning Best Music and Sound category at the 2022 CATS Awards.
All of the songs in the show, including The Greatest Flame, All Things Must Change, and of course The Stamping Ground, are written by Runrig’s founding members Calum and Rory MacDonald.
Calum MacDonald and Rory MacDonald of Runrig said “It is so good to see that The Stamping Ground is not only returning to Eden Court but going on a Nationwide Tour. There has been such a positive reaction from fans and public alike, with still so many that have not had the opportunity to see it first time around.”
The production will be bolstered with new cast members joining the ensemble for the tour that include Juliet Cadzow, Jenny Hulse , Ali Watt , Naomi Stirrat and Robin Campbell who will join returning cast members Caitlin Forbes, Annie Grace, Robert Grose, Barrie Hunter and Brian James O’Sullivan. The performers are also joined on stage by musicians John Kielty, Jon Mackenzie, and Stuart Semple.
The Stamping Ground is written by award-winning playwright Morna Young (concept by Alan B. McLeod) with musical direction & arrangements by John Kielty, directed by Luke Kernaghan and with design from Kenneth MacLeod. The creative team includes Simon Wilkinson as Lighting Designer, Garry Boyle as Sound Designer, and Jade Adamson as Movement Director.
Margaret-Anne O’Donnell and Gillian Garrity of Raw Material, said “Scottish based independent production company, Raw Material are delighted to be touring their hit, feel-good musical, The Stamping Ground, across Scotland in 2023. Audiences in the highlands, both those new to Runrig and lifelong fans of the band united in their appreciation with standing ovations when the show premiered at Eden Court in Summer 2022. If you are a fan of musicals, a fan of live theatre or just looking for a great night out then this is definitely one not to miss!”
Following its opening date at Eden Court, The Stamping Ground will tour to some of Scotland’s biggest stages such as Macrobert Arts Centre Stirling, Festival Theatre Edinburgh, The Beacon Greenock, His Majesty’s Theatre Aberdeen, The Kings Theatre Glasgow and Perth Concert Hall from 5th May to 24th June 2023.
Irene Brown
Radio Summerhall Arts 