“Small Acts of Love” is a heartfelt new work that beautifully captures the bonds of friendship formed between the people of Lockerbie and American relatives following the Pan Am 103 tragedy in December 1988. Commissioned by Citizens Theatre’s Artistic Director Dominic Hill, this touching collaboration between playwright Frances Poet and composer Ricky Ross (Deacon Blue) will be the first production to grace audiences when Citizens Theatre reopens its cherished Gorbals home. In partnership with the National Theatre of Scotland, it will premiere in September 2025.
Spanning thirty-six years, this piece tenderly recounts how two communities from Scotland and New York State were brought together through devastation but found solace in small acts of kindness, friendship, and love. The project has been meticulously researched, featuring real-life representations built from extensive interviews with those directly affected by the Lockerbie bombing on both sides of the Atlantic.
A cast of 14 actor-singers alongside a five-piece roots band will breathe life into these profound stories. This production marks a significant moment as it opens Citizens Theatre’s first season back at its historic venue following major redevelopment works since June 2018.
Throughout these years away from their iconic home, Citizens Theatre has continued to engage audiences across Glasgow and Scotland through various venues while maintaining an active participation programme. Now poised to return as building works near completion, they plan to announce a full programme for autumn 2025 along with details on an August reopening festival.
Frances Poet shares her deep sense of responsibility in authentically telling these stories filled with grace and courage: “The people of Lockerbie poured their trauma into acts of kindness… It’s about generosity and resilience.” Dominic Hill reflects on this ambitious production: “We think we know this story… but it reveals how something beautiful emerged from tragedy.” Composer Ricky Ross expresses his passion for intertwining music with text: “It’s been incredibly moving… I’m delighted to tell this poignant story.”
This compassionate narrative promises not only to honour past hardships but also celebrate human strength—a testament that resonates deeply within us all as we look forward eagerly towards its debut next year at Citizens Theatre’s newly revitalised stage!