Verdict: Five stars

THE Steamie has turned the big 30 but for theatre audiences, nostalgia never gets old.

The play, written by Tony Roper, has remained at the forefront of Scottish culture since it was first performed at the Crawford Theatre in Glasgow in 1987.

An STV adaptation for Hogmanay in 1988 then became a must for households. And The Steamie became as essential at New Year as steak pie and Irn-Bru.

The Steamie is also the bible for Scotland's acting community, it is often the first introduction to theatre for young people who aspire to act.

It's this cultural significance that allows the play to be so warmly welcomed when it returns to the theatre, and last night's red carpet gala performance at the King's proved this.

The 30th anniversary production features some familiar faces including River City alumni Libby McArthur and Carmen Pieraccini.

Set in a 1950s Glasgow washhouse, The Steamie gives audiences a snapshot of the role of women during that period of time.

The play is a celebration of the Glaswegian language, and reinforces the importance of community and friendship.

It is through Roper's writing, you are transported to a time when life was simple. Modern technology did not exist and a dream for most women was to have a bath in their house.

The Steamie perhaps is also a subtle reminder to modern audiences of just how far we have come and how much we take advantage of.

This show, however, resonates with audiences because it is just funny and the characters are much loved. Audiences can also relate to the 1950s Glasgow housewife - even if it is decades on.

The cast in this production captured the essence of each 'housewife' perfectly. Strong-willed Margrit, played by Pieraccini, showcased a masterclass in how to be ballsy and vulnerable at the same time. McArthur had the audiences in stitches as Dolly. The way she moved and how she delivered the lines took the humour to the next level. Doreen, potrayed by Fiona Wood, played off the two women to perfection, and provided the perfect balance needed for that role.

While Mrs Culfeathers, played by Mary McCusker, and Andy, performed by Steven McNicoll, bolstered the comedy factor.

From the chemistry to the comic timing, the actors all managed to capture the essence of The Steamie.

Tony Roper thanked the audience at the end of the performance but really it should be us who shows our appreciation for him.

He has written a love note to Scottish culture, something we can all be proud of.

He celebrates what makes the people of Glasgow great from our natural comedy to a language only we can understand.

Here is to the next 30 years of The Steamie.

Catch The Steamie at the King's Theatre to Saturday, November 4.