Trainspotting The Musical

If you have been keeping an eye on the upcoming theatre schedule for Brighton, you might have noticed that Trainspotting The Musical is heading to the Brighton Dome in early 2027. It is an adaptation of Irvine Welsh’s novel, developed and directed by Caroline Jay Ranger, and it is scheduled to run from the 9th to the 13th of March 2027.

This production takes a different approach to the source material. Rather than leaning into nostalgia for the film, the creative team—which includes Stephen McGuinness and Irvine Welsh on music and lyrics—has focused on themes like addiction, power, and the realities of modern dispossession. The show incorporates a mix of new songs alongside tracks from the original film soundtrack. Irvine Welsh has commented on the production, noting that he feels the musical carries a strong emotional core, aiming to balance serious social inspection with moments of dark humour and music.

The cast for this tour features a Scottish ensemble, including Robbie Scott as Renton, Sheridan Townsley as Sick Boy, Kieran Andrew as Spud, Frankie O’Connor as Begbie, and Finlay Paul as Tommy. They are joined by Rebecca McKinnis as Cathy Renton, Gordon Cooper as Davie Renton, Ashley J. Russell as Colleen, Rosie Dignan as Alison, Yana Harris as Kelly, and Sophie Hutchinson as Lizzie, supported by an additional ensemble of ten actors. Given the subject matter, the production is aimed at an adult audience interested in contemporary theatre and British culture. Tickets are currently being sold as part of the wider national tour, so if you are planning to attend, you can check the Brighton Dome listings for availability.