Raw Material and Capital Theatres, in association with Aberdeen Performing Arts, are delighted to present James VI: First and Last, written by Rona Munro and directed by Rufus Norris, touring Scotland in September and October 2027.
A landmark achievement in Scottish theatre comes to a thrilling conclusion in James VI: First and Last, the final instalment in The James Plays, which have captivated audiences across the country since the first trilogy premiered in 2014. Vividly imagined, each play offers a rare glimpse into the history of Scotland’s Stewart monarchs, exploring little-known stories from the 15th to the 17th centuries and their lasting influence on our nation today.
This epic finale invites audiences into the mind of a flawed, tortured king navigating shifting loyalties and religious turmoil to unite two crowns: Scotland and England.
Whether you have followed the Stewart dynasty from the beginning or are stepping into the court for the first time, this production promises an unforgettable night of theatre.
Become a Friend and book from 11am on Tue 27 Oct
The production brings together a remarkable writer-director pairing. Rona Munro is an acclaimed playwright and screenwriter who has written all six of The James Plays. Rufus Norris is a celebrated theatre director who spent a decade as Artistic Director of the National Theatre in London, and James VI: First and Last marks his Scottish directing debut.
Rona Munro’s masterly script also gives voice to the vital women in James’s life, explores the romance and tragic passion of his queer history, and uncovers hidden stories of identity and desire. Renowned for bold storytelling, Norris brings contemporary resonance and scale to Munro’s sharp, witty text, exploring historical events in a way that speaks to the moment we live in today.
On sale information
James VI: First and Last will have its world premiere at the Festival Theatre, Edinburgh, running from Fri 24 Sep to Sat 2 Oct 2027. Friends of Capital Theatres can book from 11am on Tue 27 Oct, and general sale opens at 11am on Tue 3 Nov. Following its Edinburgh dates, James VI: First and Last will tour to Glasgow, Stirling, Inverness, and Aberdeen.
Full casting will be announced in early 2027.
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Fiona Gibson, Chief Executive at Capital Theatres said:
“Rona Munro’s James Plays have become a landmark achievement in Scottish theatre, connecting audiences with the stories, characters and events that have shaped our nation. Capital Theatres joined Raw Material as a co-producer on James IV, and it has been a privilege to be part of the series ever since, with James V and now James VI, helping to bring Rona’s extraordinary vision to audiences across Scotland and beyond.
There could be no more fitting finale to this remarkable cycle than James VI. Telling the story of the first monarch to unite the crowns of Scotland and England, and directed by Rufus Norris, it promises to be the most ambitious chapter yet. Supporting bold, world-class theatre made in Scotland is at the heart of what we do, and we are proud to play our part in bringing this landmark production to life.
We look forward to welcoming audiences to the world premiere at the Festival Theatre and sharing this powerful and timely story with people in Edinburgh and across Scotland.”
"It promises to be the most ambitious chapter yet"Fiona Gibson, Chief Executive, Capital Theatres
Credits
Raw Material & Capital Theatres, in association with Aberdeen Performing Arts
Written by Rona Munro, Directed by Rufus Norris
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