Category: Reviews
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I F*cking Love F*cking Someone I F*cking Hate | 53Two, Manchester
Foundations presents their debut dark comedy play, I F*cking Love F*cking Someone I F*cking Hate, written and performed by Hannah Mullen with direction from Eliza Beth Stevens. The play explores modern love’s complexities and bisexuality through five distinct characters who navigate their desires and connections. A text mishap leads to…
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Fun Home | Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester
The Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester hosts a touching production of “Fun Home,” the Tony Award-winning musical based on Alison Bechdel’s graphic memoir. Directed by Sarah Frankcom, the performance showcases the emotional depth of Bechdel’s story as she navigates her childhood and seeks understanding of her complex father, Bruce. Jodie…
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Taking the Piste | Royal Court, Liverpool
The review discusses “Taking the Piste,” a play by Kieran Lynn inspired by a true story about the construction of a ski slope in Kirkby during the 1970s. Due to technical issues during the performance, the review focuses on the story, cast, and set design. Directed by John Young, the…
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Something Rotten! | Opera House, Manchester
“Something Rotten!” is a Broadway musical that playfully mocks theater, making its UK premiere at Manchester’s Opera House. Set in 1595, it follows the Bottom brothers, portrayed by Jason Manford and Cassius Hackforth, as they attempt to outshine Shakespeare by inventing musicals. The cast delivers standout performances, particularly Marisha Wallace…
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The Car Man | Lowry, Salford
Matthew Bourne’s The Car Man returns to Salford’s Lowry after 26 years, showcasing its unique blend of ballet, film noir, and storytelling. Inspired by Bizet’s Carmen, the narrative shifts to a 1950s Midwestern town where a stranger ignites passion and rivalry among residents. Bourne masterfully incorporates dance to enhance the…
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Annie | Palace Theatre, Manchester
Annie, a heartwarming musical, arrives in Manchester, portraying the iconic orphan’s journey from hardship to hope. The production, directed by Nikolai Foster, features standout performances, particularly from Victoria Alsina as Annie and La Voix as Miss Hannigan. While some musical numbers falter, the overall experience offers joy and nostalgia for…
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Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift | Opera House, Manchester
Since 1997, Midsomer Murders has been a cozy crime staple for households across the globe. It follows a group of detectives investigating a surprisingly (and often unbelievable) number of homicides across the fictional county of Midsomer- you can only imagine their council tax rates. Now, writer and director, Guy Unsworth…
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Waitress | Palace Theatre, Manchester
At Manchester’s Palace Theatre, the production of Waitress, directed by Diane Paulus, combines warmth and emotional depth, anchored by Carrie Hope Fletcher’s poignant portrayal of Jenna. The score by Sara Bareilles enhances the storytelling, revealing characters’ inner struggles. Despite occasional sentimentality, the production’s compassion for ordinary lives resonates throughout, creating…
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The Karate Kid: The Musical | Palace Theatre, Manchester
The Karate Kid: The Musical offers a lively adaptation of the iconic 1984 film, capturing its underdog essence. While the story remains familiar, the performances, particularly by Sharon Sexton as Lucille, add depth. Despite a lack of memorable songs, the production balances nostalgia and sincerity, delivering an enjoyable experience for…
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Bank of Dave | Lowry, Salford
“Bank of Dave” is a humorous rags-to-riches musical directed by Nikolai Foster, depicting Dave Fishwick’s quest to establish a community bank against elite bankers. With a witty book and lyrics by Rob Madge, the show earns laughs through relatable characters and catchy tunes, despite occasional sound mix issues. A heartfelt,…
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