Glasgow’s Citizens Theatre Set to Reopen with Moving Show about ‘Love and Friendships’ Forged in Wake of Lockerbie Bombing
The Citizens Theatre in Glasgow is poised to reopen its doors with a poignant new production focusing on the enduring bonds of friendship that emerged in the aftermath of the Lockerbie bombing. Small Acts of Love will mark the return of performances to the historic theatre following a significant redevelopment project that commenced back in 2018.
Scheduled to debut in September 2025, Small Acts of Love is a collaborative effort by playwright Frances Poet and composer Ricky Ross of Deacon Blue, commissioned by the Citizens Theatre’s artistic director Dominic Hill. The production shines a spotlight on the connections formed between communities affected by the tragic events of December 21, 1988, when Pan Am 103 exploded over Lockerbie, claiming 270 lives, including 11 local residents.
Spanning 36 years, the play delves into the intertwined stories of individuals from Lockerbie and New York State whose lives were forever altered by the tragedy. Through a series of small acts of kindness, these communities found solace, friendship, and love amidst the devastation. Drawing from extensive interviews with those directly impacted by the Lockerbie bombing, the play’s creators have meticulously crafted a narrative that honours the resilience and compassion displayed in the face of adversity.
Playwright Frances Poet expressed the weight of responsibility she felt in authentically portraying the stories of those affected, emphasising the themes of generosity and human resilience that have prevailed over the years. The Citizens Theatre itself, which dates back to 1878, has undergone its first major redevelopment in history, culminating in a revamped space that is set to host a diverse range of productions.
As the theatre prepares to resume full operations, including a reopening festival in August, Citizens Theatre artistic director Dominic Hill praised Small Acts of Love as a testament to the power of love and friendship in times of immense hardship. Composer Ricky Ross echoed these sentiments, underscoring the emotional depth and significance of bringing this poignant narrative to life on stage.
In a moment that heralds both the return of live performances and a celebration of community spirit, the reopening of Glasgow’s Citizens Theatre promises to be a heartwarming and profound experience for audiences in 2025.
Insights:
The story of Small Acts of Love highlights the enduring human capacity for compassion and connection in the face of tragedy. By spotlighting the resilience and kindness that emerged from the aftermath of the Lockerbie bombing, the production honours the strength of communities coming together in times of hardship. The reopening of the Citizens Theatre signifies not just a return to live performances but a symbolic moment of healing and remembrance for all those touched by the events of December 21, 1988.