Scottish Critics Decry Review Policy

Scottish theatre critics have formally protested a decision by the Royal Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh regarding the press night for its new musical, "One Day." Fifteen critics sent a letter on Friday to the theatre's board of directors, condemning the exclusion of UK national publications from the initial review opportunity for the production, which held its press night on Wednesday.

The critics argue that the policy, which invited only Scottish publications to review the musical in Edinburgh, creates a "divisive" and "London-centric" impression. They stated that a separate press night is planned for other critics when the show transfers to London's West End. This two-tiered approach, according to the critics, suggests that Scottish critics and audiences are considered less important than their London counterparts.

Co-produced by the Lyceum and Melting Pot, "One Day: The Musical" is based on David Nicholls' 2009 novel. The critics' letter highlighted that Edinburgh theatregoers are paying up to £55 to see what appears to be an unfinished production, given the staggered review process. They emphasized that the publicly funded Lyceum Company's work should be subject to comprehensive review as part of Scottish public life, urging an end to "London-centric attitudes" in future planning.