Henry Pettigrew, Sarah Higgins, Benny Young and Eileen Nicholas will star in the National Theatre of Scotland’s newly imagined production of David Greig and Gordon McIntyre’s heart-warming love-letter to Edinburgh, Midsummer.

This new version of the play, directed by Kate Hewitt, premieres at the Edinburgh International Festival this August.

Taking up residence in the International Festival’s HQ The Hub, the production expands and enlarges the original play with songs, featuring a live band and a new presentation of the story.

This contemporary version of Midsummer stars Henry Pettigrew, Sarah Higgins, Benny Young and Eileen Nicholas, whereby the audience joins the adventures of Bob and Helena, as they get lost in an Edinburgh weekend of wedding bust-ups, midnight trysts and hung-over self-loathing.

Looking at how stories change over time, four actors and three musicians tell the story of Bob and Helena, exploring themes of storytelling, memory and love.

The band of three musicians are led by co-writer and Music Director Gordon McIntyre and form an integral part of the story, filling the room with bold new versions of the play’s original songs and music.

A tale told by a couple at two points in their life, Kate Hewitt’s production explores the mythology of storytelling, examining the ways in which time and memory distort the detail of our lives. First staged in 2008 at the Traverse Theatre, before touring internationally to critical acclaim, this Midsummer is a story about love and loss. It’s a playful romcom that is full of heart, and a dance of freedom across generations.

Midsummer Director Kate Hewitt said:

‘It’s a pleasure to be able to work on this new version of Midsummer, bringing together a brilliant cast, band, and creative team for the show’s spiritual homecoming to Edinburgh. Midsummer is a wild, funny, moving show, and we’re excited to expand it here, looking at Bob and Helena’s story from new perspectives. The play asks questions about memory, time and how we use stories to make sense of our relationships.’

Writer and Musical Director Gordon McIntyre added:

'I’m delighted to be working with Kate on this new version of the play and working on new interpretations of the songs and the music. I feel lucky to have the chance to return to and live in the world of Midsummer for a second time and I am excited about the possibilities for this show.’

Midsummer is at the International Festival from 4 – 26 August.

Tickets can be booked in person at Hub Tickets, The Hub, Castlehill, Edinburgh, EH1 2NE; via phone on 0131 473 2000, or online.