Scottish pop icon Clare Grogan to take to the Edinburgh stage in Neil Simon play at Royal Lyceum

Barefoot in the Park will feature toe-tapping renditions of Sixties hits performed live on stage and explores love, life and living together, as we follow the romantic rollercoaster of optimistic Corie and grounded Paul’s relationship.

As they begin their married life together in their tiny New York apartment, figuring out the usual daily ups and downs of being a couple becomes that bit more complicated when Corrie attempts to match-make her mother with their unconventional neighbour, Mr Velasco, whilst conversely coaxing her new husband into living a more laid-back lifestyle in which he doesn’t sweat the small things, lives in the moment, and perhaps even runs barefoot in the park...

The singer who had chart success with the songs Happy Birthday, I Could Be Lucky, Don't Talk To Me About Love and See Those Eyes plays mother Ethel in the co-production with Pitlochry Festival Theatre, and is joined on stage by Jessica Hardwick as Corie, Olivier Huband as Paul, Monarch of the Glen's Hamish Clark as Victor Velasco with Marc Small and Karis Jack as Harry Pepper, the telephone man, and Audrey Blake, the delivery woman.

Director Elizabeth Newman says, "We are thrilled to be producing Barefoot in the Park with the Lyceum. It is a joyful story that celebrates love. It feels like the world really needs to escape to New York to spend time with Corie and Paul in their love nest. Audiences can expect a great comedy by one of America’s finest playwrights. Neil Simon definitely offers up a lot of laughs and fun. We will also be including some fabulous 60s musical classics."

She adds, "The acting company are totally glorious. Clare Grogan is an extraordinary actor and singer. She is much-loved by so many people in Scotland and beyond.

"Jessica Hardwick is a tour de force; excited to return to the Lyceum opposite another great talent Olivier Huband. Hamish Clark is excited about joining the team too. Most known for his work in television, he can’t wait to breathe life into the charismatic neighbour, Victor. Marc and Karis are brilliant and I am sure will tickle audiences when they arrive in the Bratter house.”

Barefoot in the Park, Royal Lyceum Theatre, Grindlay Street, 3-25 April, £10-£33, 0131-248 4848 / www.lyceum.org.uk