Category: Reviews
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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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Stocking Fillers | Royal Court, Liverpool
Stocking Fillers returns to the Royal Court in 2024, featuring seven short plays performed by a talented cast. Each piece showcases the versatility of the actors and creative team, delivering humor and emotional depth. Directed by Sam Donovan, this festive production is a delightful selection box of theatrical experiences that…
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Tinderella | Hope Mill Theatre, Manchester
Tinderella, directed by William Spencer, offers an adult-only pantomime filled with humor, puns, and innuendos. The cast’s strong performances, especially from the ugly sisters and Prince Charming, engage the audience despite a thin plot and technical issues. Its energetic delivery compensates for lack of finesse, making it entertaining overall.
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Come From Away | The Lowry, Salford
Come From Away is a powerful musical that beautifully blends humor, empathy, and community spirit, centered around the true events in Gander, Newfoundland, after 9/11. The show portrays how 7,000 stranded passengers were welcomed by local residents, showcasing resilience and connection through a heartfelt narrative. With a dynamic ensemble cast…
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Spend Spend Spend | Royal Exchange, Manchester
The Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester revives the lively British musical Spend Spend Spend, telling the true story of Viv Nicholson, who wins a large football pool jackpot in 1961. The production explores themes of wealth and its impact, questioning whether spending brings true happiness. Running until January 11th, it…
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Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto – Rapunzel | Everyman Theatre, Liverpool
The Everyman Theatre celebrates its 60th birthday with a Rock’N’Roll panto featuring Rapunzel. Directed by Jude Christian and featuring vibrant set designs, the production offers engaging performances, notably by Michael Starke. Despite some plot weaknesses, it aims for festive fun, appealing to families through humor and lively music. Tickets available…
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Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake | The Lowry, Salford
Matthew Bourne’s reinvented Swan Lake, now marking its 29th year, replaces female swans with an all-male ensemble, infusing fresh life into Tchaikovsky’s score. This production explores themes of identity and repression, showcasing powerful choreography and stellar performances. Its universal themes and striking visuals redefine ballet, appealing to all audiences.
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Scouse Red Riding Hood | The Royal Court, Liverpool
The annual Christmas show at Liverpool’s Royal Court, titled “Scouse Red Riding Hood,” offers a humorous, adult twist on the classic tale. With a talented cast and creative team, the production boasts strong vocal performances and engaging music. This year’s show promises laughter and festive escapism, exceeding last year’s offerings.
Stagey Reviews 