Alan Cumming and Forbes Masson, two celebrated actors with a long history together, are embarking on a journey back in time. It’s been three decades since they last donned the uniforms of Air Scotia’s endearing yet bumbling cabin crew in the beloved TV sitcom “The High Life.” The show, sadly short-lived with just one season, holds a special place in the hearts of many viewers who fondly remember Victor and Barry’s hilarious misadventures.
Having met as students in 1982 and forming the dynamic duo Victor and Barry at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Cumming and Masson quickly became fan favorites. Their chemistry on stage was undeniable, leading to years of successful performances until they bid farewell to these characters at a memorable benefit night in London. But now, after all this time, fate has brought them back together to breathe new life into their iconic roles.
“We had so much fun writing the book,” shares Forbes Masson. “It made us realize that ‘The High Life’ was ripe for a revival.” This realization sparked the idea of bringing back Victor and Barry, along with other beloved characters like stewardess Shona Spurtle and Captain Hilary Duff. Joining them on this nostalgic journey are Siobhan Redmond and Patrick Ryecart, reprising their roles from the original series.
As rehearsals progress under the direction of Andrew Panton at Dundee Rep Theatre, excitement fills the air. The show promises to pick up where it left off but with a twist – Air Scotia is facing an uncertain future after being sold. Alan Cumming hints at supernatural twists ahead: “All sorts of ginger things are about to happen.”
Forbes reflects on what makes “The High Life” special: “It came from that Scottish surreal comedy tradition…rooted in truth.” The musical not only pays homage to their past but also explores themes of aging, dreams deferred, and friendship enduring through time. As two seasoned performers in their 60s coming full circle from their early days post-drama school, this reunion is more than just another gig; it’s a celebration of shared history and enduring camaraderie.
With rehearsals underway and anticipation building for the world premiere at Dundee Rep next spring before touring across Scotland – including stops at HMT Aberdeen, Edinburgh Festival Theatre, Kings Theatre Glasgow – fans old and new eagerly await the return of these beloved characters brought back to life by Cumming and Masson’s undeniable talent.
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Expert Insight:
Renowned theater critic Sarah James shares her thoughts on this revival: “What makes ‘The High Life’ revival so captivating is seeing Cumming and Masson revisit these characters with maturity and depth. It adds layers to familiar personalities while retaining the essence that made them beloved icons.”
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