Glasgow’s theatre culture is steeped in history with the city playing home to countless iconic productions over the years. This season is no exception as a massive variety of award-winning shows are set to hit the stage over the coming weeks.
With so much on offer, it’s easy to feel spoiled for choice. To help with the selection process, here are five totally unmissable shows that you can catch at the theatre in Glasgow this summer…
The Self-Referential One
Taking both Broadway and London’s West End by storm, and now coming to Glasgow, 'The Producers' will open at Theatre Royal Glasgow for one week from 15 June. Starring UK comedians Ross Noble and Jason Manford, 'The Producers' was written by comedy legend Mel Brooks. The show has won a record-breaking number of Tony Awards and has been called the funniest Broadway comedy of all time. The show follows the story of its eccentric characters, as they plot a get-rich-quick scam – to create the worst musical of all time. If you’re a fan of comedy, you won’t want to miss this one.
The Comedy One
'Dirty Rotten Scoundrels' might be an adaptation of a 80s film, but its classic feel transports the audience back to the golden age of musical comedy – with a smooth-talking cast and songs you’ll be itching to throw out your best jazz hands to!
Fresh from the West End, this show will hit Glasgow’s Theatre Royal on June 23 for just five nights. It stars Michael Praed and Noel Sullivan, and takes the audience to the sophisticated French Riviera as two crooks set out to trick an heiress with hilarious results. Expect good, old fashioned music and hi-jinks in equal measures from this popular comedy.
The One for Rock'n'Rollers
Looking for a show that’ll leave you feeling 'All Shook Up'? You need look no further as 'Love Me Tender', a new musical production featuring the songs of Elvis Presley, comes to town on August 3 at Glasgow’s Kings Theatre.
The funny and poignant show, featuring 25 tracks made famous by The King himself, is set in 1950s small town America. 'Love Me Tender' stars platinum-selling artist Mica Paris and is penned by the writer of Broadway smash, 'Memphis'. A must-see for music lovers and totally unmissable for Elvis fans.
The Homegrown One
On August 10, Glasgow’s Theatre Royal will welcomes the Khan family, as the critically-acclaimed comedy drama 'East Is East' comes to the stage. The internationally acclaimed British movie has returned to its theatre roots, and stars Father Ted’s Pauline McLynn. Written by Ayub Khan Din, the show tells the story of multicultural 1970s Salford with a lively cast of characters at its core. Its arrival in Glasgow follows a successful run in London’s West End, and its combination of humour and heart makes it one not to miss.
The Wildcard
Dubbed 'Sesame Street for adults', 'Avenue Q' is still a fairly young production compared to the rest, yet has already made major waves in the theatre world. This cheeky show, created by Jeff Marx and Robert Lopez, will run at Glasgow’s Kings Theatre from August 25.
Winner of several awards, 'Avenue Q' often sells out worldwide. Set in downtown New York, the cast (of humans and puppets) try to make sense of life’s burning issues. Expect mischief, bad behaviour and an impressive collection of songs (just what you'd expect from the songwriter of Disney’s 'Frozen').
One thing's for sure – 'Avenue Q' is NOT one to bring the kids to. The real question is, are you brave enough to bring a first date?
See more things to do in Glasgow from Time Out.