one4review | On 23, Aug 2026

Daniel Downie doesn’t mess about in this fun and fact packed, history tour of Scotland, in his one-man show “Alba”.
I learnt more about Scotland in The Beehive, Grassmarket, than I ever did at school, and Daniel does it in such a fantastic way, we are absolutely gripped right from the start. This is not some boring history lesson, he brings it all to life so vividly, it’s almost like he has lived through the ages himself.
His story-telling is a real joy, and it’s full of laughs and witty banter with the crowd. He’s so easy to listen to, and he builds a lovely warm and natural rapport with his audience.
This is the most fun you can have while learning about Scotland at the same time, it’s a whistlestop tour bringing to life, The Vikings, The Picts, The Celts and all that made us into the diverse multiculture we now find ourselves in.
I had no idea how the Kings of Scotland were chosen or how the Clan system came about, but all are beautifully explained to us with some great laughs along the way. A lovely show and a great way to spend an hour with a very knowledgeable historian.
**** 1/2

Reviewed by Gavin
Beehive 2 (The Comedy Attic) @ The Beehive Inn
14.45 to 15.45
7th to 30th August