Theatregoers given trigger warning over new Trainspotting musical that contains drugs as bosses slammed for 'woke utter nonsense'

George Bunn
Fri, 10 Apr 2026 08:38:54 +0000

Audiences planning to attend Trainspotting: The Musical have been cautioned that the production features depictions of drug use, sparking backlash from some who have branded the advisory "woke utter nonsense."

The theatrical adaptation of the iconic British film following heroin-addicted friends in Edinburgh is set to open in London's West End this summer.

Theatre bosses have issued a notice stating the over-15 show includes "scenes and depictions of drug taking and death" along with "swearing and adult references."

The warning has drawn criticism from fans who consider it unnecessary given the well-known subject matter of Irvine Welsh's 1993 novel and the subsequent film adaptation.

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Danny Boyle's 1996 cinematic version propelled several actors to stardom, including Ewan McGregor, Robert Carlyle, Kelly Macdonald and Jonny Lee Miller.

The film drew from Mr Welsh's debut novel published three years earlier, with its soundtrack featuring artists such as Iggy Pop, Underworld, Lou Reed and Pulp becoming a 90s pop culture phenomena.

It has widely been recognised as one of the most iconic British films of all time, with the British Film Institute (BFI) placing it 10th in its ranking of the finest British films of the 20th century.

Mr Welsh himself has penned the script for the stage adaptation, maintaining that the story's themes resonate even more strongly in the present day as millions across the country struggle with addictions to both illicit substances and prescription medications.

Scottish actor Robbie Scott, aged 26, will take on the iconic role of Renton, played by Ewan McGregor in the film, for the theatrical production.

The musical is scheduled to begin performances in July at the Theatre Royal Haymarket, with the most expensive seats commanding prices of up to £130.

An age restriction of 15 and over has been applied to all performances.

Promotional materials for the show describe it as "radical, invigorating and life-affirming" whilst promising audiences "a provocative, unforgettable experience."

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Graham Ray, a fan from Burnham in Buckinghamshire, expressed his frustration at the advisory notices, stating: "What utter woke nonsense. What next?

"A warning that A Christmas Carol features Christmas references?"

The criticism comes despite the theatre's efforts to market the show in bold terms, with promotional copy billing it as a boundary-pushing theatrical event.

GB News has contacted the Theatre Royal Haymarket for comment.

It is the latest in a series of trigger warnings being slapped on West End productions.

A new staging of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet has drawn criticism after potential ticket buyers were met with trigger warnings alerting them to themes of "grief" and "revenge" in the centuries-old tragedy.

The production, helmed by director Robert Icke and featuring Stranger Things star Sadie Sink alongside Noah Jupe, opened on March 17 at the Harold Pinter Theatre and runs until June.

Those purchasing tickets online are informed the show "deals with themes of grief and revenge and includes descriptions of violence".

Critics have branded the warnings patronising, questioning whether audiences truly require such advisories for one of literature's most famous works.