Set in the gritty heart of Glasgow’s East End, The Naked Neds is a raw and riotous comedy-drama that blends lad culture with a life-saving message. Playing at theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall, this production from HI! Productions tackles male mental health, suicide, and testicular cancer with humour, heart, and a healthy dose of chaos.
The story follows Paul (Lucian Burlingame) and his close-knit group of mates; Tony (John Stuart), Jamie (Ingram Noble), and Harry (Aidan Curley), who spend their days in their local pub, the Fox and Hound. The empty seat at their table is a constant, poignant reminder of Cammy, their friend who died by suicide. In his memory, the group attempts to raise money, first through a football match (which flops), and then by staging a Full Monty-style strip show. It’s a wild, funny, and surprisingly moving journey that culminates in a moment of genuine vulnerability and solidarity.
Set during the coronation of King Charles III, the play cleverly contrasts royal excess with the harsh realities of working-class Scottish life. The script doesn’t shy away from political critique, highlighting the failures of the Westminster system and the strain on NHS services. These themes are woven into the narrative with varying degrees of success — some moments land powerfully, while others feel slightly underdeveloped.
The cast bring strong energy to the stage. Ingram Noble, who also wrote and directed the piece, delivers a heartfelt performance as Jamie, particularly in a monologue about male body confidence. Hannah Mary Taylor as Beth, the barmaid, offers a grounded and compassionate perspective, voicing the concerns of someone who sees young men struggling daily. Paul’s final monologue, delivered by Burlingame, is especially affecting — a moment of heartbreak that ultimately offers hope.
Music is used effectively throughout, with Blink-182’s “All the Small Things” underscoring a key planning scene with humour and heart. The show’s raw language and tone reflect the authenticity of Glesga’s working-class culture, though the script would benefit from a tighter edit and the guiding hand of an external director to sharpen its emotional beats and comedic timing.
Because it is incredibly funny, and although a sparse audience on the show’s second night meant the theatre was devoid of the raucous laughter the show deserves. It can’t be understated how important a show like this is with further development, The Naked Neds could become a major force in contemporary theatre; a Scottish Calendar Girls, or a modern-day The Steamie. For now, it’s a brave and ballsy effort that deserves to be seen.
