KELI: A Powerful New Play Brings Music, Memory, and Community to Scottish Stages in 2025

A Bold New Theatrical Premiere from Martin Green

The National Theatre of Scotland and Lepus Productions are set to present the world premiere of KELI, an electrifying new play by Ivor Novello Award-winning composer Martin Green (Lau). Inspired by real-life brass band stories, KELI brings together live music, powerful storytelling, and a moving exploration of community, creativity, and identity.

Following its preview in Stirling, KELI will open in Edinburgh on 15 May 2025 before touring Dundee, Perth, and Glasgow in May and June 2025.

A Story Rooted in Tradition and Transformation

Set in a former mining town, KELI follows the fiery and sharp-witted Keli, a teenage brass band prodigy struggling with small-town pressures. While music comes easily, everything else in her life is a constant battle. As tensions rise, Keli must navigate family, expectations, and the pursuit of freedom.

Featuring live brass music from Green’s acclaimed album Split the Air, the production will showcase performances from leading Scottish brass bands, including Whitburn Band and Kingdom Brass, both renowned for their deep roots in Scottish music history.

A Stellar Cast and Creative Team

Making her professional stage debut, Liberty Black takes on the role of Keli, alongside a standout cast:

• Karen Fishwick (Our Ladies of Perpetual Succour, Outlander) as Jayne

• Phil McKee (Dunsinane, The Rig) as Brian

• Billy Mack (The Cheviot, The Stag and the Black Black Oil) as Willie Knox

• Olivia Hemmati in her professional debut as Amy/Saskia

Joining them is a live brass ensemble, featuring:

• Stacey Ghent – Flugelhorn

• Hanna Mbuya – Tuba

• Karen Fishwick – Euphonium

The creative team includes:

• Director: Bryony Shanahan (No Pay? No Way!, Let The Right One In)

• Set & Costume Design: Alisa Kalyanova

• Sound Design: George Dennis

• Lighting Design: Robbie Butler

• Casting Director: Anna Dawson

A Unique Blend of Theatre and Live Music

Inspired by Green’s BBC Radio 4 series Love, Spit and Valve Oil, KELI brings authentic brass band culture to the stage, with each performance featuring a live brass band from Scotland’s thriving musical community.

“KELI is a story about community, legacy, and above all, music. I can’t wait to invite audiences into Keli’s remarkable world and heart.” – Director Bryony Shanahan

“To be making KELI with National Theatre of Scotland and Bryony Shanahan, forty years on from the Miners’ Strike, feels absolutely right; an incredible team of visionary people. Perfect.” – Martin Green, Writer & Composer

An Unmissable Theatrical Experience

With its blend of gripping drama, rich musical heritage, and an unforgettable soundtrack, KELI is set to be one of Scotland’s most exciting new productions in 2025.

Don’t miss the chance to experience this powerful new play—book your tickets today!