Category: Reviews
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Letter to Brezhnev | Royal Court, Liverpool
“Letter to Brezhnev,” adapted from Frank Clarke’s 1985 film, is a poignant depiction of love and self-discovery set against Liverpool’s unemployment crisis. Directed by Nicole Behan, the story follows Elaine and her best friend Teresa, who meet two Soviet sailors, transforming their lives. Clarke’s authentic dialogue resonates with working-class experiences,…
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Jersey Boys | Palace Theatre, Manchester
“Jersey Boys” revolutionized musical theatre by centering a production around the music of a pop group, setting the standard for later jukebox musicals. Two decades later, its anniversary tour at Manchester’s Palace Theatre showcases a talented cast led by Luke Baker as Frankie Valli, whose falsetto captivates audiences. The performances…
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Of All These Friends and Lovers | The Hope Street Theatre, Liverpool
The author expresses a surprising lack of enthusiasm for The Beatles, despite acknowledging their monumental impact on music and Liverpool. Their interest is sparked by the ITV drama “Cilla,” focusing on Brian Epstein, The Beatles’ manager. The review discusses “Of All These Friends and Lovers,” a speculative two-hander play set…
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High School Musical | Lowry, Salford
Twenty years after its debut, the stage adaptation of High School Musical brings nostalgia to life at Lowry Theatre. This production, directed by Joseph Houston and William Whelton, effectively immerses the audience into East High with impressive set design. The central performances by Tobias Turley and Leonor Correia as Troy…
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Burlesque | Regent Theatre, Stoke-On-Trent
Burlesque the Musical has captivated theatre lovers since its World Premiere in June 2024, evolving through various creative iterations. However, the latest version, Burlesque 4.0, has faced criticism for lacking depth and coherence. While the new storyline reflects a shift from Los Angeles to New York, many elements feel poorly…
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Take Me Home County Road | Royal Court, Liverpool
Take Me Home, County Road canters into Liverpool’s Royal Court theatre and marks the writing debut of its long established on-stage talent, Adam McCoy. Shelly (Helen Carter) is a forty-something woman from County Road who has settled into a comfortable but perhaps slightly unfulfilled life with her husband Mick (Lenny…
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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…
Stagey Reviews 