Category: Reviews
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The Memory of Water | Octagon, Bolton
Shelagh Stephenson’s The Memory of Water is one of those plays that wears its intelligence lightly. First staged in the mid-1990s, it arrives at Bolton’s Octagon Theatre not as a dusty museum piece but as an assured revival, directed by Lotte Wakeham with confidence and restraint. The play’s blend of caustic humour and emotional…
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The Execution of Private Slovik | 53Two, Manchester
Old Fruit Jar Productions’ The Execution of Private Slovik at Manchester’s 53Two is a powerful, tightly wound piece of theatre that lingers long after the stunned silence of its final moments. Set in France in 1945, in the final months of the Second World War, the play places us in…
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The Bodyguard | Palace Theatre, Manchester
The Bodyguard musical returns to Manchester’s Palace Theatre, marking its fourth UK tour. While it attempts to honor Whitney Houston’s legacy, the production struggles with narrative depth and direction. Although the cast shows potential, the overall execution sometimes undermines emotional intimacy, leaving the audience craving a more polished tribute to…
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The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe | Lowry, Salford
Playing at Lowry until Sunday 11th January, further information and booking details can be found here. Tickets kindly gifted from the theatre.
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Sleep Can Wait! | Unity Theatre, Liverpool
“Sleep Can Wait!” at Liverpool’s Unity Theatre is a whimsical, family-friendly production directed by Elinor Randle. It features engaging performances by young actors and a vibrant backdrop of innovative design. The play encourages creativity without screens, highlighting the magic of the holiday season. Running until December 23rd, it promises joy…
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Unfortunate | Lowry, Salford
Unfortunate, a musical parody of Ursula from Disney’s The Little Mermaid, received critical acclaim post-Edinburgh Fringe. With vibrant characters, sharp wit, and catchy tunes, it combines nostalgia and modern cheekiness. While staging can be overly busy at times, standout performances and bold design elements ensure an entertaining experience. The show…
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Robin Hood | Opera House, Manchester
Panto season is back at Opera House Manchester- Oh, yes it is! This year, Robin Hood takes to the stage, but does it score the bullseye? Or does it close one eye, hope for the best, shoot and get lost in the hedge? Led by Opera House favourite, comedian and…
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Singin’ in the Rain | Royal Exchange, Manchester
Singin’ in the Rain splashes onto the stage at Royal Exchange Theatre Manchester with charm, nostalgia and a palpable fizz of energy. This revival leans confidently into the classic MGM-era spirit: big smiles, bigger choreography and a warm, generous glow that feels like stepping into a golden-age picture house: nostalgic…
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Stocking Fillers | Royal Court, Liverpool
Christmas at the Royal Court Studio features the annual Stocking Fillers showcase, presenting seven short plays by emerging writers. The performances blend humor and melancholy, showcasing a talented cast that handles diverse characters and genres. While some pieces lack impact and transitions feel awkward, the overall experience remains heartwarming and…
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Tina the Musical – Palace Theatre, Manchester
The jukebox musical “Tina” delivers a compelling portrayal of Tina Turner’s life, expertly crafted by Katori Hall and directed by Phyllida Lloyd. Jochebel Ohene MacCarthy embodies Turner with emotional depth, while David King-Yombo’s Ike is complex and engaging. Despite minor technical issues, the production shines with strong performances and thoughtful…
Stagey Reviews 