Category: Reviews
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Trainspotting | Theatre Royal, Ramsbottom
The review of Jon Walker’s adaptation of Irvine Welsh’s Trainspotting praises the immersive production set in Manchester, blending elements of Welsh’s Skag Boys. The performance, characterized by sensory overload, strong direction, and powerful acting, captivates the audience. Walker and The Summerseat Players create an unforgettable theatrical experience, redefining the original…
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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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Magic & Sex | The Kings Arms, Salford
Almost a year ago, we were lucky enough to see Kathryn Haywood bring her one-woman-show, Yoga & Sex… For Women (Over 40) to Manchester before heading to Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival. The play packed such a punch, particularly with Haywood’s comedic performance, that she was named our blog’s ‘Performer of the…
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Matthew Bourne’s The Midnight Bell | Lowry, Salford
Matthew Bourne’s ‘The Midnight Bell’ at Lowry, Salford, is a poignant exploration of yearning and connection in 1930s London, inspired by Patrick Hamilton. The production features dynamic choreography, atmospheric design, and haunting performances that capture the complexities of the characters’ lives, ultimately illustrating a world of longing and unfulfilled desires.
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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.
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Come Fall in Love | Opera House, Manchester
Thirty years after Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge took World Cinema by storm, Aditya Chopra brings his much-loved Bollywood romance to the UK stage with Come Fall in Love– a vibrant, full-hearted musical presented as part of the ‘Manchester Gets It First’ campaign. But how does it translate to the stage?…
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Dear England | Lowry, Salford
James Graham’s Dear England returns, blending drama and satire to explore identity and masculinity through the lens of England’s football team. Starring Gwilym Lee as Gareth Southgate, the play addresses mental health and racism while raising questions about its target audience. It reflects on England’s evolving identity, offering a thought-provoking,…
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Jock Night | Hope Mill Theatre, Manchester
Jock Night, a two-act play by Adam Zane, transcends typical gay stereotypes, showcasing five human characters. Set against a detailed backdrop, it blends humor with significant gay community issues. While some pacing and dialogue moments feel contrived, the performances, particularly Gabriel Clark’s, stand out. The production runs at Hope Mill…
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Blip! | Aquarius Centre, Manchester
A big focus of Stagey Reviews is to give a platform to not only large-scale productions with price tags to match, but also to affordable theatre. We were recently invited to the run of Blip!, as part of the Chorlton Arts Festival, where it played for one night ahead of…
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