A new stage adaptation of a cult classic is making its way to Southend next year.
Trainspotting The Musical, based on Irvine Welsh’s best-selling debut novel and the iconic 1996 film, will arrive at the Cliffs Pavilion for a week-long run.
The tour marks 30 years since the film became a cultural phenomenon, grossing more than $76 million worldwide and earning a BAFTA for Best Screenplay.
Irvine Welsh said: "I believe the musical has a bigger, loudly beating human heart than either the book or the film.
"People need to think about the world we’re living in, and we offer that inspection, but they also need to sing their hearts out and laugh their heads off.
"It’s what being human is all about.
"We’ve put together an incredible Scottish cast and I can’t wait to see them bring the musical to life."
The musical brings Welsh’s gritty Edinburgh characters to the stage, including Renton, Sick Boy, Begbie, Spud, Tommy and Kelly.
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Renton, famously played by Ewan McGregor in the film, will be portrayed on stage by 26-year-old Scottish actor Robbie Scott.
He will be joined by Sheridan Townsley as Sick Boy, Kieran Andrew as Spud, and Frankie O'Connor as Begbie.
Written by Welsh and directed and developed by Caroline Jay Ranger, Trainspotting The Musical revisits the original’s core themes while updating its commentary for a modern audience.
The production features new music and lyrics by Stephen McGuinness and Welsh, along with some of the anthems from the film’s era-defining soundtrack.
Trainspotting The Musical begins its tour at Edinburgh Playhouse on October 19.
It will run at Southend’s Cliffs Pavilion from February 1 to 6, 2027.
Tickets go on sale from May 15.
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