Category: Reviews
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Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat | Opera House, Manchester
Andrew Lloyd-Webber’s beloved musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, returns to Manchester nearly 60 years after its debut. Directed by Laurence Connor, Adam Filipe shines as Joseph, while Christina Bianco excels as The Narrator. With vibrant set design, choreography, and lighting, the production offers a nostalgic theatrical experience, running…
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Bat Out of Hell | The Palace, Manchester
Since its explosive inception, Bat Out of Hell has been revving up audiences with its high-octane fusion of rock opera and theatrical spectacle. Now, on its 2025 UK tour, Jim Steinman’s bombastic vision roars onto the stage of the Palace Theatre in Manchester, aiming for renewed vigour and an 8-piece…
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Ghost Stories | Lowry, Salford
‘Ghost Stories’ captivates audiences with its suspenseful storytelling and strong performances. Professor Goodman, played by Dan Tetsell, debunks supernatural claims while immersing viewers in nightmarish realities. The production excels in sound, lighting, and special effects, creating an unsettling atmosphere. Despite some comedic elements, it’s a thrilling experience worth attending.
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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.
Stagey Reviews 