Outlaws, Onstage: Restless Natives Gets a Musical Twist
A fresh take on rebellion, romance and roadside chaos hits the theatre this May.
For four nights this May, Restless Natives rides again. This time round though it’s not on screen. The cult 1985 film is being reimagined as a stage musical, with His Majesty’s Theatre hosting its Aberdeen run from Wednesday 21 to Saturday 24 May. Expect familiar characters, fresh energy, and a distinctly Scottish cast leading the charge.
Taking on the roles of the Clown and the Wolfman, aka unlikely Highland highwaymen Ronnie and Will, are rising talents Finlay McKillop and Kyle Gardiner. The pair are joined by Kirsty MacLaren playing idealistic tour guide Margot, who’s convinced these homegrown heroes might rescue the nation’s spirit.
Would you like to see your advert here? Let's talk.
POST celebrates Aberdeen’s creative scene, spotlighting everything from theatre and music to visual art. Our focus is on showcasing the city’s artistic talent and helping local voices reach new audiences.
We believe creativity is vital to Aberdeen and its communities. Through features, event coverage, and artist profiles, we’re here to support underrepresented voices and share the stories that shape the city.
Alan McHugh makes his HMT return
There’s a welcome return for Alan McHugh, well-known to Aberdeen audiences for his two-decade run as panto dame at HMT. Alongside him are Aberdeenshire actor Ailsa Davidson and an ensemble packed with homegrown talent, including Robin Campbell, Caroline Deyga, and Harry Ward.
First brought to the screen by Michael Hoffman and Andy Paterson Restless Natives blended grit and humour with a soft rebellion. Two disillusioned teens taking to the roads, holding up tourist buses and accidentally becoming folk heroes. Now adapted for the stage by original writers Hoffman and Paterson with Ninian Dunnett, and set to music by Tim Sutton, the story’s being told with new flair and plenty of heart.
A cult classic of Scottish cinema
Ben Torrie, Director of Programming and Creative Projects at Aberdeen Performing Arts, says the show will be “a must-see for any theatre fan,” adding: “Restless Natives is a pioneering, cult classic of Scottish cinema, so to see it on stage at His Majesty’s with such a magnificent cast will be something special.”
With its roots in 1980s Scotland and songs inspired by Big Country, the musical promises nostalgia for those who grew up with the film, and a chance for new audiences to discover the story’s misfit charm.
Tickets for Restless Natives are on sale now available from Aberdeen Performing Arts and the Box Office.
