Ceilidh the Musical at Shoreditch Town Hall

Walking into Shoreditch Town Hall for tonight’s performance of Ceilidh the Musical, you sense this will not be a standard sit-down-and-watch show; a band of folk musicians soundtrack the audience’s arrival, milling among them alongside cast members as drinks are bought, and seats are taken. Festoon lighting hangs from every possible empty stretch of ceiling, giving the grand room a warm ambience. Suddenly, the pace picks up, the band take their positions, and the caller Ramsay – played by co-writer Scott Gilmour – welcomes one and all to the ceilidh (pronounced “kay-lee”).

This reviewer has never attended a ceilidh, falling into the minority here tonight, apparently. For the uninitiated, people gather from all walks of life, where barons can hold hands with paupers, to celebrate with music and dance. And everyone, both the band and attendees, is led by a “caller” hosting the event and teaching the steps to short and easy routines. With Gilmour at the helm, the show presents like an immersive experience more than a musical, yet any scepticism melts away thanks to his charming and easygoing demeanour; as an example, he quickly quells any worries about looking cool, because nobody does at a ceilidh.

Although it’s made crystal clear that staying seated is welcome if preferred, most of the ground floor audience surrounding the stage are on their feet, embracing the chaos of learning steps to numbers like The Military Two Step or The Canadian Barn Dance; it’s a very crowded space. Whether watching or joining in, it’s hard not to get caught up in the lively atmosphere, delightfully accompanied by whimsical folk music, and smile.

The story itself is familiar, one of traditions being passed down coupled with romance blossoming in an unconventional place. It could easily be lost amongst the dance numbers, but the very Scottish humour – Star Penders as Granny MacLavaney is a deliriously comic delight – and a warm, wholesome connection between David Rankine’s Leo and Kirsty Findlay’s English rose Euna beautifully bring Gilmour and Claire McKenzie’s tale to life. Laura Lovemore’s Yvonne is a whirlwind, a bawdy and hilarious side character drawing all eyes to her whenever she’s onstage. However, there are plenty of emotional beats which hit in the right places; rather than mawkish, a grand singalong finale of Auld Lang Syne feels earned.

The show’s direction could have been fumbled in less capable hands, but in those of Sam Pinkleton – who’s won a Tony Award for his work with Oh, Mary!, no less – Ceilidh turns out to be a wonderful evening of enjoyable pandemonium. His commitment to creating an authentic piece that honours multiple Scottish traditions pays off, ensuring it will linger in the minds and hearts of those who see it. And this reviewer hasn’t even mentioned the interval provisions of haggis and a wee dram of whisky…

In an increasingly isolated world, an evening dancing with strangers to lively folk music is a heady tonic; Ceilidh the Musical is not to be missed.

Gem Hurley
Photos: Luke Dyson

Ceilidh the Musical is at Shoreditch Town Hall from 23^rd October until 7^th March 2027. For further information or to book, visit the theatre’s website here.

Watch the trailer for Ceilidh the Musical at Shoreditch Town Hall here: