Review: Celtic Roots, Fringe 2025

Stepping into the Haldane Theatre at theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall for the final showing of Celtic Roots, one might be expecting a deep dive into ancient, historical melodies.

This is not that show.

Instead, singer Kevin Littlejohn and fiddle player Kirsty McGroarty take the audience on a journey of personal nostalgia, a collection of Celtic-inspired songs that form the roots of Littlejohn’s own musical memory, rather than an ancient heritage. The relaxed, almost intimate atmosphere of the venue made it clear that most of the crowd knew exactly what they were in for, happily clapping and stamping along as the duo played through their set.

A Voice Perfect for Cruising and Cabarets

Kevin Littlejohn is a consummate professional, with an international voice that would be “absolutely perfect for cruise lines or as the guest star at a luxury hotel.” He has a powerful, warm stage presence, constantly smiling and engaging with the audience, making everyone feel at home. His tartan waistcoat and trousers, in the Edinburgh summer heat, spoke of his dedication to the performance, a commitment that paid off. The songs themselves are of a more modern vintage than the show’s title might suggest, dating from the 1950s, 60s, and 70s, many of which would no doubt have been fixtures on ‘Top of the Pops’ at one time. This modern take on ‘Celtic’ music, rooted in his family’s personal history, is what sets the show apart. It is a genuine performance, an emotional sincerity that comes across as heartfelt and a real pleasure to watch.

A Duo Act, with a Little Help from the Ether

Littlejohn is ably supported by the fantastic Kirsty McGroarty on the fiddle, who provides the only live accompaniment besides Littlejohn’s vocals. The rest of the backing track, from drums to keyboards, is recorded. While this might be a point of contention for some purists, the sound system at the Surgeons’ Hall worked well and the music filled the space, complemented by a simple, effective backdrop of three pop-out screens depicting Scottish woodlands. The mix of songs was varied enough to prevent the hour from feeling repetitive, and the pace kept the audience engaged. While I initially worried the set might become a bit ‘samey’ for a full hour, the show mixed it up beautifully, and the time absolutely flew by in the second half.

Overall

Celtic Roots is a musical performance that wears its heart on its sleeve. While the title may lead some to expect a historical journey, the reality is a delightful and sincere exploration of personal heritage through song. Littlejohn and McGroarty deliver a polished, professional, and heartfelt show that clearly resonated with its audience. It’s a show that is still evolving, and with a tour planned, it will be exciting to see where this fantastic music goes next.