NESSIE

Book, Music and Lyrics by Shonagh Murray 

Directed by Beth Morton

A Capital Theatres and Pitlochry Festival Theatre Production 

On the scenic banks of Loch Ness lies the town of Bruachness, a place steeped in mystery and folklore, where the local residents live in cautious awe of the legendary Loch Ness Monster, believed to bring misfortune to those who glimpse it. Tales abound of torn fishing nets, capsized boats, and a haunting fog that marks the Monster’s presence. But everything changes when an 11-year-old budding biologist named Mara encounters the Monster—who prefers to be called Nessa, thank you very much—and survives to tell the tale. 

As news of Nessa spreads, Bruachness is swept into a whirlwind of Monster Mania. Tourists flock to the town, eager to catch a glimpse of the fabled creature. Amidst the growing frenzy, a mysterious mist descends, and a sinister plot unfolds at the local hydro plant. It’s up to Mara, Nessa, and their aquatic friends to safeguard the loch and its inhabitants. Along the way, they might even uncover the secret of Nessa’s origins. 

Nessie is a captivating Scottish musical that celebrates bravery, the strength of friendship and the courage to follow one’s own heart. 

Nessie at Pitlochry Festival Theatre is supported by the Cruden Foundation.

Director Beth Morton

Musical Director & Composer Shonagh Murray 

Dramaturg Tania Azevedo 

Set & Costume Designer Natalie Fern 

Puppet Designer Ella Mackay 

Lighting Designer Peter Fennell 

Movement Director Sasha Harrington 

Sound Designer Pippa Murphy 

Puppetry Coach Ross MacKay 

Mara Caitlin Forbes

Nessa Eden Barrie

Nessa 2/Ally Campbell Louis Newman

Heather/Emma McDougall Alyson Orr

Oggie/Murdo Campbell Keith Macpherson