L-R: Gianni Palmarini* and Jeffrey Kringer* play brothers James and Lyle, respectively. (Photo by Brennen Russell. Graphic Design by Sean Keepers.)
Before the curtain rises on The Roads to Loch Lomond, the story begins in a photoshoot where tartan swaths and weathered props hint at the fate that awaits two brothers in a divided Scotland.
From a staged reading at our annual 2025 Richard P. Stahl Festival of New American Theatre, this regional premiere transports audiences to Scotland during the Jacobite rebellion. The brothers fight for their homeland and face a future that may never come. Inspired by the Scottish ballad Loch Lomond and showcasing an original Celtic-inspired score, this is a tale of love, loss, and sacrifice.
To capture the spirit of this story before it reaches the stage, our team staged a promotional photoshoot that offered the first glimpse into the Highlands.
Get a peek at the incredible journey we can’t wait to share with you!
The Look: For this photoshoot, our costume shop provided some of the actual pieces they’ll use in the show. As always, they were on hand to dress the actors as needed. Two main looks helped distinguish between the characters’ past and present. While accessories were added and removed, the draped tartans highlighted the connection of the characters’ heritage and loyalty, core themes of the show.
The Props & Setting: Our properties team provided a few period guns and a coin, key props for our characters. The period weapons provided tension and allowed the actors’ body language to demonstrate their conflicting perspectives. Then, there was the significant coin to flip. Physically small but powerful when the brothers leave their fate to the flip of a coin, this was a fun moment to practice and capture.
As for setting, Phoenix leaves much to be desired for misty Scottish lakes and lush meadows in the summer. But the green screen and a little digital magic can make anything happen. After the photoshoot, we received inspiration for settings from the show’s video designer. Our graphic artist seamlessly blended the actors into the scenic backdrop of historic Scotland.
The Vibe: When you think of staging a photoshoot for a dramatic show, you might imagine a reserved set. However, the intense emotions the characters experience are built on a foundation of brotherly love. The actors brought an air of playfulness and encouragement, much like you’d expect with brothers. Their camaraderie and respect for each other were evident as they worked through poses inspired by poignant show moments. The coin flip was an on-the-spot test and bonding moment to hold in laughter through missed catches and showcased support to create successful takes.
With the recent news of Let the Good Times Roll: A New Orleans Gumbo show’s run to New York City, Broadway isn’t out of the question for news works developed at The Phoenix Theatre Company. There are high hopes for The Roads to Loch Lomond, its timeless story and heartfelt score. Until then, we are proud to share another beautiful story with our loyal audience.
See how the flip of a coin can change everything. Get your tickets now!
Event Details
What: The Roads to Loch Lomond
When: October 8 – November 2, 2025
Where: The Phoenix Theatre Company, Hormel Theatre, 1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85004
Tickets: Available at www.phoenixtheatre.com or by calling the Box Office at (602) 254-2151
Click here to see the other publicity photos!
Click here for a PDF of the full article.
Click here to view the video of behind the scenes for the publicity photos.
*Courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association, the union of professional actors and stage managers in the U.S.
