Trainspotting the Musical review – the iconic words “Choose life” echo through this stage adaptation of Irvine Welsh’s novel, but forgettable songs and disjointed scenes make for a bad trip. Based on the cult film, the musical attempts to recapture the raw energy of 1990s Edinburgh heroin culture, yet it falls flat. Lewis Kidd plays Renton with earnest intensity, but the production feels like a theme-park ride through familiar moments rather than a fresh theatrical experience.
Plot and Direction: A Choppy Journey
Written by Welsh and directed by Caroline Jay Ranger, the story is a patchwork of scenes that lack narrative flow. From the group’s trip to Blackpool for a northern soul gig to the infamous toilet scene – made more vivid with back-screen video design by Douglas O’Connell – the musical races through highlights without building emotional depth. Key moments like the death of Alison’s baby (Rosie Dignan) and Tommy’s descent into heroin addiction (Finlay Paul) are handled briskly, robbing them of their devastating impact.
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Performances: Mixed Results
Kieran Andrew’s Spud delivers a lively speed-fuelled job interview, and Frankie O’Connor’s Begbie brings a menacing snooker-table violence. However, the ensemble often feels constrained by the material. The show’s forgettable songs – a mix of generic rock and balladry – do little to elevate the drama. One bright spot: a monologue from Spud’s mother railing against prescription drugs and sugar, which adds a rare layer of social commentary.
Comparison Table: Musical vs. Film
| Aspect | Trainspotting Musical | Trainspotting Film (1996) |
|---|---|---|
| Storytelling | Choppy, disconnected scenes | Cohesive, powerful narrative |
| Music | Forgettable original songs | Iconic soundtrack (e.g., “Born Slippy”) |
| Emotional Impact | Muted, rushed | Devastating and poignant |
| Innovation | Relies on nostalgia | Groundbreaking and raw |
Key Takeaways
- The musical fails to recapture the film’s shocking energy – it feels tame and safe.
- Fans of the original will recognize scenes but miss the deep character arcs.
- Underwhelming songs and a disjointed script make this a skip unless you’re a die-hard Trainspotting enthusiast.
- Video design and some performances are highlights, but overall the production lacks spark.
Final Verdict
The advertising declares a return of these characters 30 years on from Danny Boyle’s film, but the stage show never earns that claim. While it has occasional touching moments, Trainspotting the Musical is a bad trip better avoided. For those curious about the source material, stick with the book or the film – both deliver the visceral grit and dark humour that this musical only hints at.
FAQ
Is Trainspotting the Musical worth seeing?
Not really. Fans of the film will likely be disappointed by forgettable songs and a fragmented story. Unless you’re a completionist, skip it.
How does the musical compare to the film?
The film has far greater emotional depth, iconic music, and shocking moments. The musical feels like a watered-down theme park ride.
Who wrote Trainspotting the Musical?
Irvine Welsh, author of the novel, co-wrote the stage adaptation. It is directed by Caroline Jay Ranger.
Are there any good performances in the musical?
Kieran Andrew’s Spud and Frankie O’Connor’s Begbie stand out, but the overall cast struggles with weak material.
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