Category: Musicals
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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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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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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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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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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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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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