Category: Reviews
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Ellen Kent’s La Bohème | Opera House, Manchester
Ellen Kent’s La Bohème at Opera House, Manchester, presents Puccini’s poignant narrative of love and loss among 19th-century Parisian artists. While Viktoriia Melnyk’s Musetta shines, the production suffers from pacing issues. Despite static staging, strong vocal performances and a powerful score make it an engaging, though uneven, opera experience.
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The Peaceful Hour | Royal Court, Liverpool
The Peaceful Hour at Liverpool’s Royal Court, written by Gerry Linford and directed by Emma Bird, explores themes of acceptance through comedy and poignant moments. The chemistry between characters Julie and Tim is strong, and while the narrative has ups and downs, it ultimately delivers a significant message about love…
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The Parent Agency | Storyhouse, Chester
In David Baddiel’s adaptation of The Parent Agency, 10-year-old Barry explores an alternate universe where he chooses his parents. The production features strong performances, particularly from Max Bispham and Rebecca McKinnis. While designed for all ages, humor resonates more with children. The show has magical moments but could improve with…
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Escaped Alone & What If If Only | Royal Exchange, Manchester
Caryl Churchill’s plays, Escaped Alone and What If If Only, are currently showcased at the Royal Exchange in Manchester. Both works explore profound themes, blending everyday dialogue with apocalyptic visions. Expert direction and a talented cast craft intense emotional experiences, leaving audiences with lingering reflections on existence, grief, and societal…
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The Girl on the Train | Lowry, Salford
The adaptation of Paula Hawkins’ The Girl on the Train, directed by Loveday Ingram, transforms the psychological thriller into a comedic piece, losing the original’s tension and depth. While some performances shine, the overall execution leads to unrealistic dialogue and superficial characters, undermining the gripping narrative, resulting in an unsatisfactory…
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Rita, Sue & Bob Too | Theatre Royal, St Helens
There aren’t many shows that come with a caveat before the curtain rises, that it will be presented as it was written, word for word, and that the audience should take it in context for its time. As someone who found great joy in The Book of Mormon and Avenue…
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The Shark Is Broken | Lowry, Salford
The Shark Is Broken humorously depicts the troubled production of Jaws, focusing on three actors grappling with frustration on set. While the play offers character development and laughter, it leaves audiences wanting more depth beyond the behind-the-scenes antics. The performances, particularly Ian Shaw’s, shine despite a somewhat dry plot.
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Calamity Jane | Opera House, Manchester
The revival of Calamity Jane, directed by Nikolai Foster and Nick Winston, features Carrie Hope Fletcher but ultimately falls short of expectations. While the cast delivers energy and charm, the thin plot and troubled portrayal of Calamity undermine the classic’s appeal. The production presents enjoyable moments but lacks depth in…
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Mergaliyev’s Swan Lake | Opera House, Manchester
Mergaliyev Classical Ballet returns to Manchester in 2025 with their version of ‘Swan Lake,’ featuring a timeless score by Tchaikovsky. While the performances display strong talent, particularly from Nilay Tahiroğlu and Cristo Vivancos, the production sometimes lacks the necessary energy and finesse. Despite this, the appreciation for classical ballet endures.
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A Christmas Carol: The Musical | The Lowry, Salford
The Hope Mill Theatre’s A Christmas Carol: The Musical is a festive delight running from December 6, 2024, to January 5, 2025, at The Lowry’s Quays Theatre in Salford. This production reimagines Dickens’ classic with a gender-swapped twist and Broadway flair, featuring a powerful performance by Claire Moore as ‘Evelina’…
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