Picture: Aly Wright
Black Diamonds and the Blue Brazil continues at the Royal Lyceum Theatre, Edinburgh until 23 May 2026.
Star rating: four stars
Dawn Steele gives an outstanding performance as Sally, a girl returning home to Fife following her father’s death, in Gary McNair’s new stage adaptation of Ron Ferguson’s beloved book Black Diamonds and the Blue Brazil. She creates an instant rapport with the audience, removing the fourth wall completely.
Her father (beautifully played by Barrie Hunter) was a diehard supporter of Cowdenbeath FC; his final wish was to have his ashes scattered on the Central Park Stadium’s turf after a match. However, as Sally is about to spread the ashes at the end of a rather dismal match, she is stopped in her tracks by one of her dad’s pals as he insists that her father was very specific – it had to be a winning match!
So, the scene is set for the plot to progress. The understanding of why Cowdenbeath are nicknamed ‘The Blue Brazil’, the lives of miners – loss, grief and winning are all detailed with excellent humour and sincerity that is never saccharine. McNair’s script ensures an authentic voice for the stories told.
Alongside the script sits Ricky Ross, probably best known for leading the group, Deacon Blue. He has crafted a portfolio of 13 songs that dovetail with the spoken words, increasing depth of understanding and emotional connection with the characters. Sitting on a raised platform with his piano, Ross is compelling to listen to – the lyrics complement the text flawlessly. There could be a bit more variety in some of the melodies as the moods shift in the story, but this does let the lyrics shine.
James Brining’s direction leaves just the right amount of breathing space to let the story hit home, fostering the generous rapport between all three outstanding performers and the audience. It feels like family.
A full standing ovation with sustained cheers and applause is the ultimate tribute for such a rare pleasure.
Fiona Orr
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