Expert Review: Why Brigadoon's Return Is Magical

4.5
★★★★★

Expert Rating

The Verdict

Brigadoon's return to London after 35 years is cause for celebration. Lerner & Loewe's magical musical about love transcending time remains as enchanting as ever, with beautiful melodies, sophisticated storytelling, and a timeless exploration of fate, love, and the choices that define our lives. This revival proves that great musical theatre is truly timeless.

What Makes It Special

  • Timeless Score: Features classics like "Almost Like Being in Love" and "The Heather on the Hill" - songs that have become part of the Great American Songbook.
  • Sophisticated Storytelling: Lerner's book explores themes of love, duty, and belonging with remarkable depth for a 1947 musical.
  • Scottish Romance: The mystical Highland setting creates an atmospheric backdrop for this tale of love conquering time itself.
  • Dance & Spectacle: Agnes de Mille's original choreography celebrated Scottish folk traditions with breathtaking Highland dances.

Perfect For

Musical theatre lovers, fans of classic Broadway, those seeking sophisticated storytelling, and anyone who appreciates timeless romance. Ideal for audiences who love shows with both heart and heritage.

Everything You Need to Know

The Magical Tale

Two American tourists, Tommy and Jeff, stumble upon Brigadoon, a mystical Scottish village that appears for only one day every hundred years. Tommy falls in love with Fiona, a local lass, while Jeff finds himself skeptical of the village's supernatural claims.

The Central Conflict

As the day progresses, Tommy must choose between returning to his ordinary life in New York or staying forever in Brigadoon with Fiona. But the village's magic comes with a price - if anyone leaves Brigadoon, the village will disappear forever.

Themes

  • Love transcending time and reality
  • The choice between duty and desire
  • The meaning of home and belonging
  • Faith versus skepticism
  • The power of community and tradition

The Magic

Set against the backdrop of the Scottish Highlands, Brigadoon weaves together romance, comedy, and supernatural elements to create a truly magical theatrical experience that has enchanted audiences for over 75 years.

Classic Lerner & Loewe Songs

  • "Brigadoon" - The opening number introducing the mystical village
  • "Down on MacConnachy Square" - Lively village celebration
  • "I'll Go Home with Bonnie Jean" - Charlie's joyful song about his upcoming wedding
  • "The Heather on the Hill" - Tommy and Fiona's romantic duet
  • "The Love of My Life" - Meg's comedic number about her many loves
  • "Almost Like Being in Love" - Tommy's soaring declaration of newfound love
  • "Come to Me, Bend to Me" - Charlie's serenade to Jean
  • "My Mother's Wedding Day" - Fiona's touching ballad

Musical Legacy: Brigadoon established Lerner & Loewe as one of Broadway's greatest songwriting teams, leading to later classics like "My Fair Lady" and "Camelot."

Practical Information

Show Times

  • Schedule: To be announced with venue confirmation
  • Typical Schedule: Tuesday-Saturday evenings, Wednesday & Saturday matinees
  • Running Time: Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes including interval

Venue Information

  • Location: Open Air Theatre, The Regent's Park
  • Transport: Regent's Park or Baker Street stations

Historical Context

  • Originally opened on Broadway in 1947
  • Last seen in London's West End 35 years ago
  • Features choreography originally by Agnes de Mille
  • Set design traditionally emphasizes the Scottish Highland landscape
  • Costume design celebrates traditional Scottish Highland dress