‘Black Diamonds and the Blue Brazil’ at the Royal Lyceum Edinburgh
- 2 hours ago
- 3 min read
For those who don’t know Scottish football, I’m sure that the title of our post has already piqued your curiosity. In fact, now that I’ve mentioned football, you’re probably wondering what the ‘Blue Brazil’ has to do with Scotland. Well, sit back and relax as we tell you all about our visit to the Royal Lyceum Edinburgh to see an amazing play that was about so much more than just football.
The Royal Lyceum Edinburgh
We were fortunate to attend the press night of ‘Black Diamonds and the Blue Brazil’ at the Royal Lyceum Edinburgh. However, before we tell you about the show, let’s provide a wee bit of background on the Lyceum.
The Royal Lyceum Edinburgh was built in 1883 and designed by architect, C.J. Phipps. Of note is its distinctive cream-painted stucco, mansard roof, and giant Corinthian pilasters going from the first to second floors. We often walk by the Lyceum when in town, and our Golden Retriever tour guides, Walter and Arthur, have posed in front of it on a variety of occasions. What’s clear is that its classic architecture is beautiful whether bathed in sunlight or helping to brighten a cloudy day.
A new glass foyer addition was built in 1986.
The interior design has some lovely wee details as you make your way into the auditorium.
However, the auditorium is the crown jewel of the Lyceum. Its decoration is done in the classical style to match the building’s exterior. There are three tiers of horseshoe-shaped balconies supported by beautiful columns with an exquisite dome and chandelier overhead.
Now, that we’ve taken our seats, let the show begin!
‘Black Diamonds and the Blue Brazil’
‘Black Diamonds and the Blue Brazil’ is the beloved book written by Ron Ferguson. Ferguson’s book is a moving account of his hometown, Cowdenbeath, and their legendary football club- more specifically their challenging 1992-1993 season. Cowdenbeath was a coal mining town- hence the phrase black diamonds. However, the football club’s nickname is ‘the Blue Brazil’ because it was remarked that their style of football was so spectacular it was like watching Brazil play. Cowdenbeath FC deserves a post on its own. So be sure to subscribe, so that you get that article as soon as it’s published.
Ferguson’s book was adapted into the play by Gary McNair, and it is now showing at the Royal Lyceum Edinburgh from 8-23 May. The Lyceum describes it as “a play about family, football and finding your way home”. Well, we can confirm it is that and so much more- it is storytelling at its absolute best. Those stories have been brought to life by Scottish actors- Dawn Steele and Barrie Hunter. The narrative of the story is further shaped by the poignant music of Ricky Ross (lead singer of Deacon Blue)- who composed and performs the music on stage throughout the play.
Steele’s performance as Sally was simply stunning. One minute she had us experiencing full belly laughs and the next we were shedding a flood of tears. Hunter plays her dad and he did an excellent job at showing what it means to be a multi-generational, lifelong fan of Cowdenbeath FC. However, you don’t have to be a football fan to appreciate the play as both actors (along with Ross’ music) bring you on a journey of what it means to experience the universal feelings of grief, frustration, hope, and never-ending love for family and community.
As we walked out of the Lyceum, our hearts overflowed with emotions. In a world where we are inundated with artificial intelligence, it was nice to go to a play and watch real people perform real issues that we can all relate to. The director of the play, James Brining, mentioned that what drew him to Gary McNair’s adaptation was its “warmth and humanity”. After watching ‘Black Diamonds and the Blue Brazil’, we happily concur with those sentiments. So, if you are looking to find some humanity, we wholeheartedly recommend that you go see this incredible play for yourselves. Be sure to head to the Royal Lyceum Edinburgh’s website for more information on how to book your ticket.
Then, if you are looking for more opportunities to experience engaging storytelling, consider booking one of our Edinburgh walking tours. We make it a true family affair as our human tour guide, Sami, is joined by one of Golden Retrievers- Walter or Arthur- who appropriately have the distinction of being known as the ‘Knights of the Blue Brazil’ (they are proud canine lifetime season ticket holders for Cowdenbeath FC). Sami and our knights love to show people around Edinburgh and tell unforgettable stories that bring our capital city to life.
Until next time- Explore & Discover!
