BWW Stage Mag WHEN WE WERE YOUNG - UK TOUR 2025 Stage Mag

Sign up for future info on WHEN WE WERE YOUNG and other shows and events by Geez a Break Productions

 

Follow Us:

The public and critically acclaimed five star production ‘WHEN WE WERE YOUNG’ is back for 2025 and is going beyond the tabloid stereotype of ‘Neds’ to tell a powerful and hilarious story about the realities of gang culture and young team mentality in Glasgow during the 90’s as we follow the lives of one of the many young teams who polluted the streets of the city during a time it was known as The Murder Capital of Europe.

 

 

MEET THE TROOPS

Liam Lambie

Mooney
Liam Lambie - Mooney Liam Lambie will be returning for the 2025 run of 'When We Were Young' and reprise the role of the notorious gang leader for the final tour. Since graduating from Coatbridge College , Liam has been lucky enough to continuously work within the entertainment industry appearing on both stage and screen and has credits that range from scaring tourists in the Edinburgh Dungeons to BAFTA award winning films. Liam is also a published playwright ; His writing credits include the five star productions ‘Mamie’, ‘O’er the Tap’ and tonights performance of 'WHEN WE WERE YOUNG'. Liam was completely blown away by the response to the production so far and is so excited to be back in his trackie for the 2025 tour.

Dionne Frati

Michaela
Dionne Frati - Michaela Dionne Frati will be returning to the cast of ‘When We Were Young’ to play the role of Michaela. Dionne studied her HND in Acting at Glasgow Clyde college and then went on to gain a first class BA Honours degree from New College Lanarkshire. Dionne has worked consistently in the industry for over ten years working with a variety of companies. She has worked on Theatre in Education tours, in house Productions, Cruise ship shows and new Scottish writing. Some of her credits include - Billie in Singing I’m no a Billie SHE’s a Tim and Michelle in Blame it on the Bucky. Dionne is also a regular cast member in SLLC annual Pantomimes and will be back again this year at Hamilton Town House. Dionne has worked with Geez A Break Productions on several shows including O’er The Tap, Mamie and Lanes and Doorways and is thrilled to be back with the cast for the 2025 tour of When We Were Young.

Ross McAree

Tam
Ross McAree - Tam Returning to the troops for 2025 is Ross McAree who will be taking on the role of Tam Mooney. With a BA (Hons) in Musical theatre, Ross is no stranger to the stage and is an accomplished actor. Ross joined Liam Lambie in Co-Running Geez A Break Productions in 2016 and has since watched the company go from strength to strength . Ross appears in most of the companies productions whether they are touring Theatres, Schools or Care Homes and puts his musical theatre past to good use by acting as Vocal Coach on most of the companies touring productions. Ross is very excited to working on 'When we were young' again and can't wait to bring this amazing script back to life.

Kat Harrison

Mags
Kat Harrison - Mags Kat Harrison is joining the cast of ‘When We Were Young’ for 2025 playing the role of Mags Mooney, the guardian angel of the scheme! Kat is a working class actress based near Glasgow who launched Break a Leg Academy in 2024. She is thrilled to be on her first UK tour with Geez a Break Productions' and get the opportunity to visit so many amazing venues throughout the tour. Her recent credits include a one woman show titled "I'm F***ing my Agent" (not an autobiography!) And the Queen in "Thorns", a dark and twisted re-telling of Sleeping Beauty.

Elliot McLean

Gee
Elliot McLean - Gee Elliot McLean will be joining the cast for the 2025 tour of When We Were Young playing the role of Gee. Elliot has recently graduated with a BA (Hons) in Acting and is incredibly excited to go on his first tour as an actor. Growing up in Glasgow, this show is one very close to Elliot’s heart and he cannot wait to take to the stage to share this incredible piece of work with audiences around Scotland. His recent credits include Boab in Oor Wullie at Dundee Rep and a run at the 2024 Edinburgh Fringe with Kinky Boots.

Candace Nicholson

Sammy
Candace Nicholson - Sammy Candace Nicholson will be returning to the cast for our 2025 run of this five star production taking on the role of Sammy. Candace successfully graduated from New College Lanarkshire in 2015, with a BA Honours degree. Since then she has been involved in the film, theatre, and television industry. Her most recent television credits include the BAFTA award winning children’s series ‘Swashbuckle’. Candace has successfully completed five series with the show. Other recent work includes Saturday Mash up, CBBC and Candace will be joining Geez a Break Productions again later this year in their Panto ‘the Snow Queen’. She is very excited to be working with the team once again and slipping back into her trackie to play this incredible role that holds a special place in her heart.

Euan Ferguson

Joe
Euan Ferguson - Joe Joining the troops for their 2025 tour is Euan Ferguson who will be playing the role of Joe!. Having toured several times over the years with Geez a Break Productions including their summer pantomime Pinocchio and their five star WW1 show “O’er the Tap” he is thrilled to be back with the team and buzzing to get out on the road with “When We Were Young” His recent credits include Banquo in MacBeth, Beast in Fizzgig Theatres winter pantomime, a run of The Grandfathers at the 2023 Edinburgh Fringe and a role in the short film ‘Flaked’.

Eilidh McIntosh

Stage Manager
Eilidh McIntosh - Stage Manager Eilidh is so excited to be back with the troops for their 2025 tour of When We Were Young as Stage Manager. She can’t wait to get back into the wings and keep the show running smoothly from behind the scenes. Eilidh loves working with the team and is looking forward to being in so many amazing venues this year!

GLASGOW TIMES REVIEW
GLASGOW TIMES REVIEW DAILY RECORD REVIEW
DAILY RECORD REVIEW GLASGOW DAILY REVIEW
GLASGOW DAILY REVIEW REVIEWS BY ANDREW M REVIEW
REVIEWS BY ANDREW M REVIEW GLASGOW WORLD REVIEW
GLASGOW WORLD REVIEW GLASGOW THEATRE BLOG REVIEW
GLASGOW THEATRE BLOG REVIEW LISA IN THE THEATRE REVIEW
LISA IN THE THEATRE REVIEW THE SCOTSMAN REVIEW
THE SCOTSMAN REVIEW

The troops are ready for tonight’s performance in Theatre Royal Dumfries

Posted by Geez A Break Productions on Wednesday, April 30, 2025
You make the face…. I make the sound challenge!

LICK THE LOLLY / SNIFF THE SOAP - WHEN WE WERE YOUNG CAST! Ross McAree and Liam Lambie aka Tam and Mooney.

Posted by Geez A Break Productions on Tuesday, April 29, 2025
Lick the Lolly/ Sniff the Soap - Mooney and Tam

LICK THE LOLLY / SNIFF THE SOAP - WHEN WE WERE YOUNG CAST! Candace Nicholson and Eilidh McIntosh aka Sammy and our Stage Manager 🍭

Posted by Geez A Break Productions on Monday, April 28, 2025
Lick the Lolly / Sniff the Soap - Sammy and Eilidh

LICK THE LOLLY / SNIFF THE SOAP - WHEN WE WERE YOUNG CAST! Dionne Frati and Elliot McLean aka Michaela and Gee

Posted by Geez A Break Productions on Monday, April 28, 2025
Lick the Lolly/ Sniff the Soap- Michaela and Gee

LICK THE LOLLY / SNIFF THE SOAP - WHEN WE WERE YOUNG CAST! Kat and Euan aka Mags and Joe!!!

Posted by Geez A Break Productions on Monday, April 28, 2025
Lick the Lolly / Sniff the Soap - Mags and Joe

🐓…….

Posted by Geez A Break Productions on Tuesday, April 29, 2025
Chicken Dance - Sammy!

SPECIAL THANKS

INTER PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY 

THE RUDDY FAMILY 

THE MCAREE FAMILY 

MARGARET MORTON 

THE STAFF AT TECHNOTOTS NURSERY

MICHELLE MALONE PHOTOGRAPHY

THE RONAINS
 

SUPPORT

If you were affected by any of the topics in the show, you aren’t alone!

please have a look at the links below; 

DOMESTIC ABUSE

 https://www.sfad.org.uk/support-services/national-support-organisations/domestic-violence

 

GRIEF/LOSS  

 https://www.crusescotland.org.uk

 

ADDICTION

https://www.sfad.org.uk  
 

KNIFE CRIME

 https://livesafe.org.uk/young-people/knife-crime/

 

 

 

 

 

FEEDBACK

Thank you for joining the troops on the 2025 run of this ⭐️⭐️🌟⭐️⭐️ Production!!! 
 

Let us know what you thought of the show via GEEZ A BREAK PRODUCTIONS socials!!! 
 

http://www.facebook.com/geezabreakproductions/

 

or by signing the guest book below

Sign up for future info on WHEN WE WERE YOUNG and other shows and events by Geez a Break Productions

Guestbook

Let us know your thoughts on the 'When We Were Young'

Entries

Simon Bienkowski
When We Were Young portrays the unique and brutal nature of life in Glasgow’s schemes. Even if you haven’t lived this experience, you relate to it through the universal themes that the characters boast to the audience through a script which is equally heartwarming and heartbreaking. I have seen the show many times now and would recommend it highly. You will laugh, you will cry and you’ll go home and buy a second hand Fila tracksuit off Facebook marketplace. 5 stars!!!!!
Warren Deakin
The show is one of the best I have seen and it really shows what goes on in the city and the young teams. They acting and performing with a spot on and it has it sad moments and happy moments. Very good show and looking forward to got to loads more again this year
Alannah Macpherson
I have never seen such a moving piece of theatre like When We Were Young. I have seen it time and time again and it never fails to pull me into its emotional highs and lows. I am able to relate to aspects of every character as they are are written so fully and I can't wait to see what the new cast members bring to the 2025 run of this show!
Elaine ODowd
I have seen this show multiple times and every production has taken me on a rollercoaster of emotions, tears of laughter and tears of sadness . The writing and the way the characters are portrayed make this show a must see for all. I cannot recommend when we were young highly enough, it is outstanding 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
Glynis Wozniak
This is one of the most powerful plays I have ever seen. It is gutsy and passionate; rude and tender all at once. I laughed. I cried and laughed some more, and it really made me think and question social values and look more deeply at gang culture. The writing is magnificent and each character is so rich in the telling of the story. I went to see it several times last year, so am very intrigued to see it on this run with so many new cast members. I would recommend this to all regardless of your background.
Andrew McVie
This is a must-watch from the moment the actors step on stage. Each character is so believable that you feel like you have been transformed back to the 90s from the moment the stage lights come up. The costumes are well picked and are exactly what you would expect a typical ned to be wearing, from the tracksuit to the trainers and even the accessories. This is a 5***** Star Production which I love so much and will watch it anytime I can... I have not heard a single bad word about this show, and this is down to Liam's incredible writing style.
Kaytie mckinnon
The show was absolutely amazing, and emotion would definitely recommend
Lisa Mckinnon
Utterly brilliant...had me laughing and crying from the start Hope there's more.like it to come
Caitlin Mills
First show of 2025 and it was brilliant! We laughed, we cried, the actors were phenomenal! Would absolutely recommend 🌟
Christopher Orr
Wow, what an outstanding show this was tonight. Great mix between powerful, hard hitting and comedy. Cast all done brilliantly! I found this quite triggering as I was brought up in this culture in Greenock but fortunately made the right decisions at the right time and managed to escape it. The only thing I would add is a QR code that people could scan for help immediately after the show if needed. Maybe some links regarding domestic violence or dealing with death/trauma. Apart from that it was awesome, please pass on my thanks to the cast. Chris
Karina
Absolutely incredible. Laugh out loud one minute then wiping away tears the next. The acting from everyone was outstanding. Would highly recommend.
Tracy Fay
I didn’t know what to expect from the show but seeing the reviews I decided to book tickets … and I’m glad I did. I grew up in the 90s so it brought back lots of memories. The show was the perfect mix of humour and sadness. Really powerful story. Great acting. Lots of tears and laughs from the audience. Loved it.
V oneill
Emotional rollercoaster from start to finish, having grew up in the 90s it brought back a lot of raw emotions from life back then, perfectly wrote and amazing cast, would highly recommend getting tickets and remember your tissues, 10/10
Helena Scott
OMG bravo. what a bloody show. Fantastic performance from all of the cast. I’ve genuinely never been so invested in a show before, I was hooked for the get go. Thank you for an amazing night.
Natasha Scott
I saw this last night in Greenock and can honestly say I have never enjoyed a piece of theatre so much, I laughed and cried the full way through. The full cast were so good although I have to say Mooney was the stand out, he went from hilarious to terrifying to heartbreaking effortlessly and his last week speech at the end had me in floods. I wish it was on again somewhere near by so I could have come again, I really hope it’s back at the Beacon again.
Mark Allan
When we were young is theatre at its best. It was brutal, hilarious , honest and relatable. The acting was 100% on point. I had heard so much about this show which is why I booked for me and my wife to come along and it surpassed every one of my expectations. Well done to all involved and best of luck for your 2025 tour.
Jane
Excellent show mixture of emotions from tears to laughter throughout . Brilliant talented actors. Highly recommend!
Marie
Brilliant show tonight in Gala , thank you for an evening of theatre that will most definitely stay with me for a while 👏👏👏
Alana Lockens
Absolutely brilliant show. The performances were incredible! As a teenager in the late 90s and early noughties, the story and characters are so relatable. A huge well done to the writers and cast for bringing it to life - it would make an incredible movie!
Michelle Maley
Absolutely mind blowing. My face was hurting from the laughter then wet from the tears! So powerful. This production would be a massive educational experience for touring offenders in Prisons. From YOI to HMPs showing the effects of knifes and crimes and may even save that one individual from a life of crime or death! Thank you. The standing ovation was our privilege
Gary Tomlinson
Superb show 👏 deserves more credit than it gets ! Truly amazing performance that gets you laughing then has you relating to everything else ! 100% recommended
Amanda McGraw
OMG what a show, we need more theatre like this. It was laugh out loud funny, heartbreakingly sad and mind blowingly brilliant. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house. 👏 👏 👏 well done to all involved x
Kate bunting
Fantastic start to finish show, every emotion was had, and the sad fact that this has probably hit home i imagine to more than a few people, great seeing the cast get this story out there about knife crime and gangs as it does usually end in either of 2 ways, so glad i got a chance to see this, well done guys you where all bloody amazing 😀👍
Christina Hanvey
Was a last minute decision to get tickets for the show and omg am so very glad I did i think I experienced every single emotion possible it made me laugh and lot but also cry a lot you honestly feel every emotion. the cast members was absolutely outstanding 100% recomend this. Will also been keeping a look out for future up coming shows.
Joanne McLean
What a brilliant show! Laughing & crying in equal measure at this heartbreaking script which tackles so many all too relatable social issues. With a wonderful cast of talented young actors, this show is a must see! Congratulations to all on an emotional, outstanding show. I look forward to seeing it again soon.
Joanne McLean
What a brilliant show! Laughing & crying in equal measure at this heartbreaking script which tackles so many all too relatable social issues. With a wonderful cast of talented young actors, this show is a must see! Congratulations to all on an emotional, outstanding show. I look forward to seeing it again soon.
Tracy Mcmillan
Amazing night at The Town Housr well done to all involved!
Lyndsay McDermott
Outstanding show with such a stark and important message. Definitely everybody needs to see. The performers were unbelievable.
Sharon
OMG what an absolutely outstanding show! We didn’t really know what to expect, from laughing to crying…….you were all outstanding at the story you told…..so much for my make up…..the tears have washed it away. It’s such an important message and I wish our children were a little older to see it. You all got me in individual moments but Tam your death story really hit me and started me! Wish you all the very best for your future shows, off to dry our tears! Be recommending this show to everyone we talk to, well done!
Kellyann daly
Absolutely brilliant show from start to end. Think whole audience could relate to most of the show. The pattern / banter was on point. Think something like this should be took into schools!! Would defo recommend can't wait to see what they next come up with. All cast were brilliant actors. Amazing
Mark Mclean
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ What a fantastic show! Brilliant performances from all of the cast telling a very hard hitting, poignant, funny & heartbreaking story that captured the 90’s perfectly. This show is a triumph & deserved the standing ovation that we as the audience were desperate to give. We will definitely be back.
Karen Kelly
Absolutely amazing ! Was not prepared for the emotions this evoked. Cast were amazing ,all characters relevant to tell this story, and would believe they actually lived those lives. Lots of laughter and plenty tears. 10/10
Elaine Wallace
Great performance by the cast . Very relatable, plenty laughs and some very emotional scenes. Really enjoyed the show and would definitely recommend it.
Connor Ross
Laughed and cried in equal measures - went in with zero expectations and left absolutely loving it. Glasgow local theatre at its best - brilliant acting touching on real life subjects. Would love to see a version of this in schools as a talking point for our children. Thanks for a brilliant night.
Karen Wilson
Brilliant performance from all. Laughs and tears all the way through. The monologues were fantastic . Everyone around us felt the same commenting that it was a great night out. We hope to see you in something again soon.
Karen Martin
Seen this at rutherglen town hall all I can say is SUPERB. I could personally relate to a few of the issues, but I have to say the young cast were all amazing laughing one minute and crying the next but does send out a very important message. I was in tears by the end and what a performance from all of the young cast who I'm sure have an amazing future in the arts. To sum up hilarious, emotional, thoughtful and very real a must see for everyone.
Jane
Thank you Geez a Break for a ☆☆☆☆☆ performance in Galashiels. A powerful story with very believable characters, relationships and banter. Still thinking about the play days later and still laughing remembering Joe's chat up lines with Tam.
Catriona henderson
Brilliant show same younger generation couldn't see the affects of gangs. All the actors were brilliant story line was spot on
Melissa
This has to be one of the best plays I have been to. It was raw and emotional and had you crying with laughter and with sadness. I messaged all of my friends when I came out. My partner and I found an advert fot this by chance and decided to have a spontaneous night out and I'm so glad we did. It goes to show you don't need a huge production to give a 10/10 performance. All 7 actors were outstanding, I cannot recommend this enough!
Rachael Smith
What a show! I’ve just seen it in Johnstone tonight. Outstanding! So well written and the acting was superb. You’ll laugh and cry.
Melissa
This has to be one of the best plays I have been to. It was raw and emotional and had you crying with laughter and with sadness. I messaged all of my friends when I came out. My partner and I found an advert fot this by chance and decided to have a spontaneous night out and I'm so glad we did. It goes to show you don't need a huge production to give a 10/10 performance. All 7 actors were outstanding, I cannot recommend this enough!
Catriona McGovern
I went to the performance in Johnstone Town Hall on 27/04/25 and was blown away. The cast were amazing bringing you right into the story. The mix of comedy and tragedy blending to have me feeling all emotions. I am a support worker in homeless accommodation for 16-25 year olds and the depiction of life as a young person in Glasgow’s most deprived areas was spot on. The realistic themes and showing the cycle that so many are caught up in was delivered seamlessly. Will be recommending to everyone and wish that every young person in Scotland and beyond could see it to face the reality of how gang culture and knife crime impacts whole communities. 10/10, well done to the full production team.
Nadia
Beautiful, Poignant and Important. This production is up there with the best, there are no airs and graces just pure talent and raw emotion. I have no doubts this show could really make a difference to young people showing the effects of gang violence and knife crime and really should be funded for a wider tour around schools and prisons. Well done to this company for highlighting such an important message and bravo to the cast on such amazing performances.
Kirsteen johnston
What an amazing show. We absolutely loved it. One minute you are laughing your head off the next min you are sitting crying. Very powerful. Well done everyone involved.
Karen Garvin
Absolutely fantastic , really didn’t know what you expect but was blown away Never laughed so much then so serious, amazing cast thank you for a great night
Laurel Stewart
Laughed and cried my way throughout the whole show. Powerful, emotive and heart breaking with a powerful message at the heart about wasted youth and life changing decisions . This show will stay with you long after you've seen it. Absolutely outstanding.
Jillian Millar
Absolutely brilliant. I laughed, and I cried. As a survivor of domestic abuse,and a bereaved parent , some of this hit really hard but it never felt patronising or trite. Talented writer, actors and production. Every teenager should see this show.
Julie Hilson
This show was Absolutely pure dead brilliant !! The cast were first class ....in fact the whole show should be on BBC Scotland,and nominated for awards,it is honestly that good. Laughing,crying and hear a pin drop ,all in one scene!!! Brilliant, brilliant, brilliant!!!
Kelly Strachan
All I can say is wow! Hands down the best show I have ever seen! So powerful and every single cast member was absolutely outstanding!! Tears of laughter and of emotion, actually sobbing at points. Highly recommend! Definitely a must see and I will 100% go and see it again in the future.
Karen Black
Wow…….. wasn’t sure what to expect from this but had every emotion watching this, acting was bloody amazing, could actually see the passion oozing out of everyone, well done troops amazing x
Linda McDonald
Watched the show last night at Howden Park. All the actors were outstanding. So many hilarious moments and also sad moments. Story was very well told and got the message across. Fantastic. 5 stars 🌟
Erin Allen
This show is absolutely amazing!! Can’t recommend it enough, seen the show in Johnstone on Sunday and have booked to go again on Friday in paisley and I can’t wait. The show is hilarious but also very deep, every single scene is just brilliant. Thank you!!!
Kelly Strachan
All I can say is wow! Hands down the best show I have ever seen! So powerful and every single cast member was absolutely outstanding!! Tears of laughter and of emotion, actually sobbing at points. Highly recommend! Definitely a must see and I will 100% go and see it again in the future.
Joy Campbell
Brilliant show, i haven't laughed so much in ages but also cried. The actors all played there part so well you bought into their character
terri blake
Fabulous show. Acting was superb. Brought out every emotion. You laugh (a lot) and cry too. Well worth going to see. Each actor brought their role to life in a magical way.
Joanne
An amazing show hitting lots of truths for not just Glasgow. Think I laughed as much as I cried.
Heather
Saw the play at the Theatre Royal in Dumfries. I thought it was a Superb show. The actors Were fantastic. Their timing was excellent. They had us laughing, crying and transfixed. . Funny, emotional and hard hitting. Definitely one to go and see. Well done everyone x
Ashley
I honestly loved every minute of this ! I laughed and cried in equal measure. Brilliant performances from everyone
Angela Powrie
Just home from seeing this fantastic show, the cast are very talented. I would definitely recommend this show. I will definitely tell my family and friends to go and see it.
SCOTT JARDINE
Really enjoyable evening , great cast and performances . Coukd watch it again
SCOTT JARDINE
Really enjoyable evening , great cast and performances . Coukd watch it again
Isabel MacDonald
Excellent show. Started off really funny, can’t be offended by the language it was hilarious but then we saw the darker side of it. Brought a wee tear to my eye . It was then a mix of the seriousness of gang life but also the humour of every day life. Would definitely recommend
Ryan
What an experience. Laughter, tears and moments so silent you could hear a pin drop. This show is something very special and I’m sure everyone in the audience tonight would agree. The full cast and crew should be very proud. We need more theatre like this and I really hope it returns to Dumfries as it is genuinely the best piece of theatre I have saw in a long time, if not ever.
Kelly Tempest
A hard-hitting visit into Glasgow's gang history from the 90's/00's with humour in all the right places!!! I laughed, I cried.... I thoroughly enjoyed! Would highly recommend seeing the show with these highly talented actor's!
Alan McWhinnie
Absolutely awesome night at Dumfries Theatre Royal, never had so many emotions in such a short time. Great night.
Órla Jones
What a show. Truly speechless at the skill on stage and thetack in telling this heartbreaking story. An absolutely brilliant show, honestly can't quite believe how much I laughed and then how much I cried. Well done to all of you 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Tracey Menlove
Absolutely brilliant! ☆☆☆☆☆
Donna Paton
Took us through all the emotions, from laugh out loud to sadness! Actors were fabulous and played their parts very well. Really enjoyed the show and would recommend for a must see, to take you bk to the 90s in Glasgow!
Tony Morrice
Tremendous theatre - funny and daft but with depth and genuinely heartbreaking at times. Not an easy feat to pull off! Do yourself a big favour and see this play.
Tony Walker
Fantastic performance from the whole cast. Very emotional performance. I was growing up in Dundee in the 90s with parents similar to the ones that the characters had so.a sense of familiarlty was present. Also the situations were familiar. Not as extreme but close. Well done on the production. I hope to see more productions by you .
Caitlin Mills
First show of 2025 and it was brilliant! We laughed, we cried, the actors were phenomenal! Would absolutely recommend 🌟
douglas patterson
Fantastically brutal show. Really well acted. The cast were "pure dead brill"!
Judith Malcolm
A very thought provoking production performed by excellent actors. It was both disturbing and sad but with humour and a glimmer of hope. Great piece of work. Well done!
Di Patterson
One word: BRILLIANT!! Well acted, well written, thought provoking and how you all remembered your lines is beyond me. 5star!!
Fiona Cowieson
What a wonderful performance ! Difficult topics ( addiction , domestic abuse, knife crime and grief) were handled with a complex mixture of humour and raw sadness and anger that left me feeling quite wrung out. Fabulous acting! Very thought provoking and highly recommended.
Di Patterson
One word: BRILLIANT!! Well acted, well written, thought provoking and how you all remembered your lines is beyond me. 5star!!
Glynis Wozniak
Saw the show for the first time with the new cast at Paisley Town Hall. I saw it three times last year, and it is just as powerful the fourth time round. I left the theatre in tears after howls of laughter throughout the show, and it was such a joy to hear so many of the audience members say 'it was the best thing I've seen in a long time.' Simply superb in every way! Liam; you have created a masterpiece.
Kimberley Boyle
First time seeing the play. And absolutely loved it. Very funny , and to the point of what actually happens/ going on. Unfortunately it is like watching your life/ childhood, and brings to life the nitty gritty. I will be spreading the word and 100% will be back . 5 *
Michelle
AMAZING show, really emotional and hard hitting subjects. Think a version of this should be shown in schools to show young people impact of actions!
K Stevenson
What an amazing show. I belly laughed and cried. Very well done and everyone was amazing. 10/10
Margaret-Ann McLardie
Wow, what a fantastic show! The cast have you in stitches and in tears! What a rollercoaster of emotions, fantastic acting, well worth going to see!!!
Michelle McAvoy
Show was amazing and would highly recommend anyone to go and see this they get the chance. A lot of things we could reflect to as to when we were grown up. Fantastic
Donna
What an outstanding show. Comical, thought provoking, and heart wrenching all at the one time. A fantastic display of real life in the West of Scotland. If you don’t go and see this - you’re missing out !!!
Kirsty McPherson
7 people and a stage. No fancy lights, no fancy backdrops. Just pure raw talent, and a script that captures the life growing up in a Glasgow scheme to perfection. Full of love, full of hate, full of heart. A powerful piece of theatre that is sure to make you laugh and make you cry. A rollercoaster of emotions written in every scene - this is a performance not to be missed.
Cheryl Tumath
Saw this at Paisley Town Hall on 2nd May, fantastic show, thought provoking and poignant. Although set in the nineties the story is timeless, and could reflect the world of today. Without a change in society and giving everyone something achievable to strive for the cycle just repeats,.This would be good to be shown in schools (cleaned up version!) to show the real life consequences of gang culture, carrying knives and life without ambition,, to show following the crowd and not standing up and saying no can ruin your life. If the message gets across and makes one teen think differently about knives/senseless violence then that could be one life saved. Also could have an intro to more discussions generally about why these cycles continue, what change is needed, coming from those who are in the cycle rather than people who sit in offices coming up with new campaigns that haven’t worked as they don’t tackle the real issues.
Cathy Grouchey
Saw the show at Cumbernauld tonight and it was amazing! Laughter and tears all the way, what a production!
Stewart Lang
Outstanding performances, funny,gripping,thought provoking and heartbreaking all in one . Highly recommended 👌
Julie Beattie
Brilliant show
Debbie
Seen this production at Lanternhouse theatre in Cumbernauld & it was absolutely fantastic!! Such a brilliant cast who all played their role perfectly. It was hard hitting at times but the patter soon lifted the spirits of the crowd who were laughing hysterically throughout. Storyline was relatable to many who came to watch and this made it even more enjoyable. Well done! Can’t wait to see more like this in the future and should be rolled out in schools to teach the younger generation the reality of life!
Lindsay
What a show! The wit, humour, depth and emotion the cast brought this show to life. Hard hitting, relevant and powerful message but with the Glasgow humour and dialect. The jokes and teenage references were great for someone having grown up in Lanarkshire in the 90s and having worked with many young people in Glasgow facing these challenges and experiences. Outstanding, relevant and emotive. Please tour this in the schools, schemes, community centres (maybe some censored haha) but kids need to see this! Well done this production will stay with me a long time!
Gemma
Saw the show in Cumbernauld and it was fantastic. It’s an emotional rollercoaster that the cast take you on. Wonderfully written and directed and brilliantly performed
Caroline Main
When We Were Young’ delivers a raw, unflinching portrayal of Glasgow’s gang culture, offering a story that is as emotionally charged as it is socially resonant. The play explores themes of masculinity, loyalty, identity, and societal neglect — all under the shadow of violence that defined a generation of lost youth. What makes this play compelling isn’t the gang rivalry or street bravado, but its intimate look at the emotional cost. One character, Tam Mooney — the younger brother of a gang leader — stood out to me. Tam represents the quieter voices in a world of shouting men. He’s soft, cautious, and reluctant to follow the destructive path laid out before him. His presence creates a striking contrast to the aggressive hyper-masculinity around him. It’s in these softer moments that the play’s heart beats loudest. The performances are believable and sharp, balancing humour with heartbreak. The writing doesn’t glorify violence; it humanises those caught in its cycle. ‘When We Were Young’ challenges audiences to see beyond headlines and statistics — to understand structural failures that leave young people with few options and fewer futures. Unsettling, moving, and absolutely essential.
Tracy King
Fantastic performance from the whole cast tonight at the Lanternhouse This was my third time seeing this show, the powerful and emotional storyline of 90s street culture and the hysterical banter had me laughing, crying and laughing while crying, every single time I've see it. Geezabreak have written this with so much attention to detail and brought home some very hard hitting social issues, still relevant in today's society. This is a must see for everyone.
Amanda
What a show! It's witty, hard hitting and educational. It's a show to laugh, with cry with and even feel all the feeling the characters feel. I would highly recommend to everyone.
Debbie
Seen this production at Lanternhouse theatre in Cumbernauld & it was absolutely fantastic!! Such a brilliant cast who all played their role perfectly. It was hard hitting at times but the patter soon lifted the spirits of the crowd who were laughing hysterically throughout. Storyline was relatable to many who came to watch and this made it even more enjoyable. Well done! Can’t wait to see more like this in the future and should be rolled out in schools to teach the younger generation the reality of life!
Charlene Isaac
What an amazing show. I haven’t laughed or cried so hard at a show before. Really hits home. Liam, Ross and all the cast should be so proud of what they have achieved with this show. This should be preformed to high school kids across the country to teach them the truth in knife crime. 10/10 would highly recommend everyone should see this!
Jennifer Cowan
Saw this on Friday night. One of the best plays I have seen in a long time. Minimal set. Nothing fancy, just focused on acting. Very powerful. Amazing performances by all cast. It's a must see. Truly recommend this.
Miriam D
An incredibly powerful and impactful play. Fantastically written, and beautifully performed by a brilliant cast that make you laugh and cry in (almost) equal measure. The story doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of the themes it explores, but it does so with typically Glasgow humour that allows the audience to relate to characters regardless of their own backgrounds.
Amy Hope
Absolutely Phenomenal in every way! Hilarious, amazing acting, incredible script, characters are both unmatched yet so realistic. Felt like something you would hear about that’s how real to life it was. 5 stars any day absolutely incredible.
Lisa McCloy
Well done troops, what a show. We laughed,we cried. Fantastically written and performed. The difficult themes were handled well. We all had a brilliant night at your show, thank you.
Julie McMillan
Wow this show takes your on a rollercoaster of emotions from start to finish one minute your crying with laughter and the next your heart is breaking. What a talented bunch of actors everyone of them this show should be at the hydro and all high schools students should see this show. It’s a 10/10
Adele D 😜
Absolutely brilliant, was not carry eye in the theatre at the end would highly recommend please come back to Airdrivtiwn hall so I can take my mum.
John Logan
An absolutely brilliant show and performance 👏 The production takes you on a roller coaster of emotions and truly hits home what life was like growing up in the schemes, surviving the post code gang rivalries, loyalty to your gang over family, all in all, a brilliant production which perfectly describes the struggles of growing up in the early 90's
Elaine Higgins
I absolutely loved this play. I laughed till my jaws were sore and then cried my eyes out. It was outstanding, so well written, hard hitting and also hilarious . I would definitely recommend this to anyone. Well done, fabulous cast and I will be telling everybody to go see it.
Colin Scougall
Wow! The acting, the writing, the performances - all brilliant. Loved it!
Maggie Cook
Well done to all the cast tonight at Airdrie Town Hall! Excellent acting and performance. Well done for tackling serious issues. Portrayed well with humour as well as sadness. Good luck at Edinburgh Fringe
Karen Watt
Just seen this fantastic show and can't praise it enough , it was hilarious , sad and very very powerful, and wonderfully acted out, came with my son who I think relived his teens and came away feeling very grateful that he survived his youth . Can't recommend this production enough and will encourage everyone I know to come see it, good luck with the rest of the tour
Danny Ruddy
I’ve seen When We Were Young at every iteration since its initial run 3 years ago and still, every single time without fail, end up laughing my head off, crying my heart out and holding my breath when the tension builds. The show keeps you on your toes throughout and the subtleties and nuances of every single performance is a masterclass in how to do a show and do a show right! The blend of the cast, the dynamics built and the chemistry between the actors is palpable. And every single performer on that stage had the chance to make you laugh and break your heart and never missed! Ross as Tam was sublime! You feel in your soul that this is a kid who didn’t want to end up in the situation he’s in, but is forced to live with the choices his brother and his friends make. Ross brings you to tears in a way that some of the most seasoned, award winning actors can’t do and he does it with such ease and humility. Euan and Elliot as Joe and Gee respectively round out the core four perfectly. They bring a comfortability to the group that has been missing in previous runs. The banter between the group feels genuine and makes you feel like you’re there with them, not just watching them. The way they can have you roaring and laughing one minute, to having you holding your breath as your heart breaks for them is nothing short of phenomenal. Euan as Joe proves that the comic relief character can truly have your heart in their hands and can crush it the same as any straight man character can. The scene discussing Joe’s home life felt absolutely raw and was heartbreaking to watch. Elliot as Gee truly pulled you in and had you rooting for him to escape his environment, the struggle of wanting to break the cycle but not being able to was heartbreaking to watch from the jump. Gee is very much the flip side of the Mooney coin and Elliot played it with grace and realism, while also being over the top when the moment needed it. Kat as Mags was crushing to see. Her performance as a mother who was watching her son descend into chaos was spellbinding to watch. She had some of the biggest laughs of the night too, while also bringing some of the most tears from the audience. Candace plays Sammy masterfully. You can see her growth throughout the show and you’re with her every single step of the way. Sammy may not be the brightest character in the world but Candance brings a light to her, even when things are dark. Dionne as Michaela is a tour de force and a performance that has you rooting for her from the second she walks on stage with her Frosty Jacks and Monster Munch til the second the lights dim at the end. Act 2 is where Dionne gets to show how truly amazing she is and you feel every second of Michaela’s anger and worry. And last but not least… Liam’s performance as Mooney, since the very first show 3 years ago, had been captivating but his performance as Mooney this time brought a new sense of realism. You wanted to hate Mooney for everything he did but your heart broke for him because at his core, was a scared little boy who was nothing but a product of his environment. Liam knows this character inside and out and with his writing of the show being nothing short of outstanding, he knows how to throw curveballs of every emotion at you from the beginning and you’re just there to watch a master of his craft do the thing he was born to do. When We Were Young is a show that is NOT to be missed!
Kathryn Hogg
What an amazing show, seen it on Friday night at the Paisley town hall, made us laugh, made us cry. Was so good I already have tickets for the Glasgow show in October.
Lisa McCloy
Well done troops, what a show. We laughed,we cried. Fantastically written and performed. The difficult themes were handled well. We all had a brilliant night at your show, thank you.
Learn More About Stage Mag