Superbly Scottish, there is no other musical like it!
Rollers Forever is a jukebox musical using the hits of the Bay City Rollers, that famous Scottish band of the 1970s. It follows the story of two young female fans, how they were introduced to the music and their subsequent following of all things ‘Rollers’. It is essentially a love letter to any fan who has the chance to witness it. An obligatory show for anyone who would want to live in the 70s for a couple of hours, including those who want to relive the decade or people who missed it the first time around.
There are so many things that this musical just gets right, one being the fact that it completely embraces the DIY elements of fandom, wanting to completely immerse yourself in a band’s fashions or even reading up on the likes and dislikes of each individual member. The characters are embarrassing in the best possible way, being so down-to-earth and relatably normal. The Bay City Rollers and their music is, above all else, fun and so is this show! It definitely isn’t too over-the-top to have the five faces of the boys blown up and displayed on the backdrop, it feels right.
For a local tour of a musical that is so specific, it doesn’t skimp on talent or quality. The two leads are phenomenal, and the songs not only work with female voices, it almost gives them even more meaning. The no-frills choreography is perfectly suited to the material and adds so much to the performance as it is more than the Bay City Rollers themselves ever did live.
The only place where things start to fail is actually the direct impersonations of Woody or Leslie, which welcome too much scrutiny and comparison that it takes away from the excitement of it all.
All of the major songs are included, plus a couple of lesser known ones that are fitting for every scenario of the story. It really seemed impossible not to sing along when act 2 opened with an electrifying rendition of ‘Shang-A-Lang’. But, knowing their audience well, there is a genius inclusion of a finale medley where participation is strongly encouraged. The title track of the show is a more recent work of the band, but it is such a fitting tribute that is not at all out of place and is sung just as well as the rest.
Wholesome and joyous are words that come to mind when watching Rollers Forever, it is a sure way to brighten anyone’s day. It does seem less of a beginner-friendly guide to the world of the Bay City Rollers and more for those who are like Jenny or Susan: the real fans.
Rollers Forever can be seen at The King’s Theatre in Edinburgh until the 31st October.