Category: Musicals
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Blood Brothers | Lowry, Salford
“Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers” is a powerful narrative set in Liverpool that explores the conflict of nature versus nurture through the lives of twin brothers separated at birth. This emotionally-charged production, directed by Bob Tomson and Bill Kenwright, showcases a stellar performance by Vivienne Carlyle as Mrs. Johnstone, marking her…
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Miss Saigon | Palace Theatre, Manchester
The UK tour of Miss Saigon at Manchester Palace Theatre showcases the timeless drama and stunning score by Claude-Michel Schönberg, directed by Jean-Pierre van der Spuy. This production retells the tragic love story set during the Vietnam War, featuring powerful performances and orchestral depth under Graham Hurman’s musical guidance. While…
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It’s a Wonderful Life | Royal Court, Liverpool
Old Fruit Jar Productions has revived its successful adaptation of “It’s a Wonderful Life” at Liverpool’s Royal Court, featuring a fresh cast. Directed by Alex King and written by Mary Elliott Nelson, this rendition captures the film’s sentimentality and whimsy. It centers on George Bailey, portrayed by Sean Radford, who…
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Fiddler on the Roof | Palace Theatre, Manchester
The latest UK tour of Fiddler on the Roof revitalizes the beloved musical with a fresh adaptation from Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Set in Anatevka, the narrative follows Tevye, a struggling milkman, as he confronts his traditions while his daughters pursue their own choices in love. Director Jordan Fein…
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Sunny Afternoon | Palace Theatre, Manchester
Sunny Afternoon, opening at Manchester’s Palace Theatre, is an Olivier Award-winning musical portraying the journey of The Kinks from humble beginnings to fame in the 1960s. Directed by Edward Hall, the show highlights the balance between success and personal turmoil through the music of Ray Davies. A talented cast, especially…
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Young Frankenstein | Hope Mill Theatre, Manchester
Hope Mill Theatre celebrated its 10-year Anniversary with an exuberant production of Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein, a musical adaptation of the 1974 comedy. The story follows Dr. Frederick Frankenstein (Ore Oduba) as he inherits his grandfather’s castle in Transylvania and is encouraged by Igor (Curtis Patrick) to continue his grandfather’s…
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13 Going On 30 | Opera House, Manchester
The musical adaptation of the beloved 2004 film, 13 Going On 30, evokes mixed feelings about its necessity despite nostalgia. Written by the film’s creators, the story follows Jenna Rink, who wishes to become “30, flirty and thriving” at her 13th birthday, leading to a chaotic realization of her desires.…
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Send in the Clowns: Little Flop of Horrors | Hope Mill Theatre, Manchester
Fatt Projects brings a vibrant blend of camp humor, activism, and live vocals in their latest show, Send in the Clowns: Little Flop of Horrors. Led by the charismatic Fatt Butcher, the performance challenges perceptions and captivates audiences with powerful vocalists like Blü Romantic and Dahliah ‘Slut’ Rivers. The two…
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Here & Now | Opera House, Manchester
Here & Now is a vibrant jukebox musical featuring Steps’ music, centered on friendship and love among colleagues at a bargain store. Directed by Rachel Kavanaugh and written by Shaun Kitchener, the show blends humor with heartfelt moments, offering fresh arrangements of well-known tracks. Despite slight flaws, it captivates fans…
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Moulin Rouge! | Palace Theatre, Manchester
Moulin Rouge! dazzles at Manchester’s Palace Theatre, delivering a vibrant spectacle filled with catchy songs, impressive choreography, and stunning visuals. Despite its entertaining surface, the narrative and character development often feel shallow. However, standout performances, particularly by Verity Thompson and Josh Rose, elevate the production, leaving audiences enchanted through its…
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