The mods arrived at the Festival Theatre for the Scottish premiere of Quadrophenia: A Mod Ballet. Scottish audiences were buzzing to see this reimagining of Peter Townshend's work brought to life on the Edinburgh stage.
On Tuesday 10 June 2025, the Festival Theatre was abuzz with the Scottish premiere and opening night of Quadrophenia: A Mod Ballet. The auditorium was packed with audience members all excited to see the new take on Pete Townshend’s iconic album (and later, film) brought to life onstage through live dance.
In 1973, guitar smashing rock genius Pete Townshend wrote QUADROPHENIA. Recorded by The Who, it quickly became an iconic and multi-million selling album. Quadrophenia defined a generation and in 1979 inspired the cult classic feature film of the same name.
Now it’s back – this time as an explosive dance production – Quadrophenia, a Mod Ballet – with a cast of exceptional dancers, introducing new audiences to troubled mod Jimmy’s story while remaining true in spirit to the much-loved original. Quadrophenia is steeped in the mythology of the 1960s – sharp suits, soul music, vespas and parkas but its themes of lost youth, rebellion, the search for belonging and hunger for social change are just as urgent today.
Rising star Paris Fitzpatrick performed the iconic lead role of Jimmy. Paris won Outstanding Male Modern Performance for his Romeo in New Adventures’ recent production of Romeo and Juliet at the 2024 National Dance Awards.
Alongside Fitzpatrick, Scottish dancer Euan Garrett returned to his home turf of Scotland to perform. Speaking to the Sunday Post he mentioned his excitement to “escap[e] back home and just relax … we’re so lucky to call North Berwick home. It’s a beautiful place”. He discussed his role in the show saying “it was too good a chance to turn down as I’m creating an originating a role from scratch. It’s new and exciting and that chance might never come round again”.
The cast also featured Falkirk-born Serena McCall who was “buzzing” to perform professionally in Scotland for the first time. Performing at home has its ups and downs as Serena mentioned being “a bit nervous about people in the audience knowing me” but at the very least, while staying with her parents, “I’ll get my dinners made for the first time in ages!”.
The show is touring the UK with Edinburgh as the only Scottish venue before it returns down south. Tickets are still available here: https://www.capitaltheatres.com/shows/quadrophenia-a-mod-ballet/ so book soon to ensure you catch this must-see show before it’s gone.
Those super keen can even book for the Saturday 14 June 7:30pm where we are inviting customers to dress in your finest Mod or Rocker attire – show off your swinging sixties’ sophistication, attention to detail and impressive fashion flair!