After three decades in the departure lounge, The High Life is cleared for take off once again, this time as a brand new stage musical.
The much-loved 1990s sitcom will burst back into life next spring, reuniting original stars Alan Cumming, Forbes Masson, Siobhan Redmond and Patrick Ryecart.
The production marks the first announced show of the National Theatre of Scotland’s 20th anniversary season.
Touring from March to May 2026, the musical will launch at Dundee Rep Theatre before heading to His Majesty’s Theatre in Aberdeen, Festival Theatre in Edinburgh and King’s Theatre in Glasgow.
In a creative collaboration that brims with talent and affection, Cumming and Masson are joined by acclaimed writer and performer Johnny McKnight, with direction by Dundee Rep’s award-winning Artistic Director Andrew Panton.
Set once more aboard the fictional Air Scotia, the plot sees our ageing but ever-hopeful cabin crew fighting to save their beloved airline from the scrap heap.
As friendships are tested and rivalries resurface, the crew must pull together for the flight of a lifetime.
Fans of the original series will delight in the return of iconic characters Sebastian Flight, Steve McCracken, Shona Spurtle and Captain Hilary Duff.
And for newcomers, the production promises fresh fun, joyous music and plenty of camp silliness.
Alan Cumming and Forbes Masson said they are “beyond excited” to slip back into their polyester uniforms.
They described reuniting with the cast and working alongside McKnight as “a joyful experience” and can’t wait to share their new creation with audiences across Scotland.
Johnny McKnight, a lifelong fan of the show, is thrilled to be on board.
“The bags are packed, the tena-man pants are on, and I am ready for check-in,” he laughed.
“Fasten your seatbelts for the flight of a lifetime.”
Director Andrew Panton added that working with the creative team has been “a riot of energy, hilarity and brilliant music.”
He is confident the stage version will captivate both long-time fans and those discovering The High Life for the first time.
The High Life first aired on the BBC in the mid-90s, quickly gaining cult status with its sharp humour and outlandish characters.
Now, with a brand new score by Forbes Masson and additional music by Alan Cumming, this joyous revival is ready to charm a whole new generation.
With a stellar cast and creative team at the helm, The High Life musical looks set to be one of the must-see events of 2026.
