Scottish Theatre Critics Voice Outrage Over 'Divisive' Review Exclusion for One Day Musical
Fifteen theatre critics based in Scotland have penned a strongly-worded letter to the Royal Lyceum theatre in Edinburgh, expressing deep concern over what they describe as a 'London-centric' and 'divisive move' in the reviewing policy for the new musical adaptation of One Day. The controversy stems from the decision to invite only critics from Scottish publications to review the press night held on Wednesday, while excluding UK national media outlets.
A Two-Tier System Sparks Uncomfortable Questions
In the letter addressed to the Lyceum's board of directors, the critics argue that this selective invitation creates a harmful perception. They state that it 'suggests not only that critics in Scotland are less important than critics in London, but also that audiences in Edinburgh are less important than audiences in London.' The show, which is based on David Nicholls' 2009 novel, is a co-production between the Royal Lyceum and Melting Pot, an independent theatre and film production company.
The critics further note that this approach implies the Edinburgh run is merely a 'preview for dates to come,' despite local theatregoers paying up to £55 for tickets. They emphasize that the Lyceum, as a publicly supported institution in Scotland, has a duty to ensure its work is vigorously reviewed and debated as part of Scottish public life.
Response from the Theatre and Production Company
When questioned about the exclusion, Melting Pot explained that the Edinburgh presentation would be followed by a West End run, and they are 'building a new piece of event theatre here and it takes time.' They expressed appreciation for critics across the country but indicated a separate press night in London for other critics.
The Royal Lyceum responded on Monday, acknowledging the concerns of Scotland-based critics while understanding the commercial rationale of their partners. They stated, 'Co-productions are a key way forward for the Lyceum to create new work at the scale and quality of One Day: The Musical.' The theatre expressed pride in delivering world-class productions in Edinburgh and welcomed further dialogue on the financial challenges involved.
Critics Call for Change in Future Planning
The letter, signed by prominent critics including Mary Brennan, Mark Brown, and the Guardian's Mark Fisher, urges that London-centric attitudes should not influence the future operations of Scotland's leading theatres. They warn that when co-productions lead to the exclusion of Scottish-based critical voices, it undermines public debate and cultural integrity.
This incident highlights ongoing tensions in the UK theatre scene regarding regional representation and commercial pressures, sparking a broader conversation about equity in arts coverage and funding.
