Category: Musicals
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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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The Diana Mixtape | Lowry, Salford
The Diana Mixtape combines drag queens, iconic queer anthems, and the legacy of Princess Diana, aiming for a vibrant prelude to Manchester Pride. However, the production struggles on a large stage, facing technical issues and inconsistency. Despite its flaws, the entertaining show has potential for refinement and a more captivating…
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The Legend of Rooney’s Ring | Royal Court, Liverpool
The Legend of Rooney’s Ring, currently at Liverpool’s Royal Court, is a delightful comedy that blends mischief and magic. Featuring standout performances, especially by John May and Keddy Sutton, the show captures the essence of Liverpool with sharp, relatable humor. Its heartfelt script ensures a must-see experience filled with laughter…
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Speedo Mick – The Musical | Royal Court, Liverpool
Michael Cullen, known as ‘Speedo Mick’, has raised over £1 million for charity through extreme challenges. A new musical narrates his transformation from a homeless addict to a charity advocate. Despite strong performances, the production suffers from cohesion issues and under-rehearsed elements, affecting its overall impact.
Stagey Reviews 