Local Hero, Old Vic Theatre

As musicals based on hit films of the same name go, Local Hero probably isn't the best-known in the business – but don’t let its small-town reputation put you off from what promises to be a peach of a production at the tail-end of the Old Vic’s upcoming season.

The original 1983 comedy-drama starred Hollywood hunk Burt Lancaster and earned widespread critical acclaim, as well as a BAFTA for writer and director Bill Forsyth. It tells the fictional story of American oil executive Mac MacIntyre's trip to the west coast of Scotland, where he aims to buy up an idyllic seaside village and replace it with a refinery.

You guessed it: the bullish capitalist finds himself at odds with the homely, small-town idealism of the locals, capturing the conflict of values faced by anyone who finds themselves trying not to sell out to the developing world. That’s where the rub lies, making for an evening’s entertainment that’s sure to tug at the heartstrings while delivering a healthy dose of laughter at the same time.

The script is Forsyth’s once again, but John Crowley (Brooklyn) is directing. Meanwhile, the songs come from Mark Knopfler, former Dire Straits frontman who, as it happens, composed the soundtrack to the original film. In other words, the team behind Local Hero are more than just a little star-studded – expect the musical to make waves when it comes to the capital next summer.

Tickets for Local Hero at the Old Vic are now on sale. Click here to book.