The rather esoteric title of this new musical version of the book of the same name by Cowdenbeath man Ron Ferguson, belies the humanity that lies at the story’s heart. Black Diamonds refers to Fife coal mining and Blue Brazil is the nickname of Cowdenbeath Football Club because of its perceived style of play – ‘like watching Brazil.’ Brilliantly adapted for the stage by the inimitable writer and performer, Gary McNair, it tells the story of high-flying London lawyer Sally McAlpine, absolutely embodied by Dawn Steele, who returns to her hame toun of Cowdenbeath for her Dad’s funeral. Instead of it being the dutiful brief visit she’d planned, her Dad’s last wishes mean her making the decision to return to Cowdenbeath for every home game in the vain hope of a win so that his ashes could be scattered on the centre circle of the club’s ground, Central Park.
The moment Dawn Steele steps to the front of the stage, where the set is a recognisably recreated Miner’s Welfare Club in the ‘90s thanks to designer Jessica Worrall, and addresses the audience in character, it is clear that this is going to be an experience where the ostensible story of fitba is a mere vehicle for a very human story. Condensed to a two hander, with the excellent Barrie Hunter playing her Dad, what plays out is the relationship between this widowed man and his only daughter with Cowdenbeath FC on the sidelines. Mr McAlpine was a Cowdenbeath fan who lived and breathed his less than successful club but, like the other diehards, turned up every week with hope in their hearts despite all evidence to sustain that hope. Let’s call it faith. His simple philosophy of treating everyone with respect, and if that didn’t work out being able to vent frustration by shouting abuse at your team’s opposition, indicates his decent values.
As Sally copes with increasing pressures at work, her frustrations turn to an acceptance as she continues what turns out to be a long-term commitment to fulfilling her Dad’s wishes that ultimately help her come to terms with not only his loss but that of her mother as a child. Using the mantra “If this was a sports movie…,” she cites various dramatic scenarios none of which match the reality of her new life becoming increasingly reconnected with her old one.
McNair’s wit and one man show style shines through and is delivered beautifully by the two actors under the astute direction of the Lyceum’s Artistic Director, James Brining. High on the stage, composer Ricky Ross of Deacon Blue fame performs thirteen songs at the piano that chime perfectly with the storyline. Video Design, including poignant pit scenes with miners’ faces from Lewis Den Hertog add to this excellent production.
You need be neither a fitba fan nor a Fifer to appreciate this emotional and thoroughly engaging piece of theatre that takes a look at life; what it is to have a sense of belonging and the different forms of love that make it worthwhile. Paraphrasing the famous Scot Bill Shankly, the play reminds us that ‘some things are more important than winning’.
Black Diamonds and the Blue Brazil is at Lyceum till 23rd May 2026
Irene Brown
Radio Summerhall Arts 