Category: Plays
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The Battle | Opera House, Manchester
In 1995, UK music saw a clash between Oasis and Blur, embodying a North-South divide amid boybands’ dominance. The production “The Battle,” directed by Matthew Dunster, attempts to capture this rivalry but falters with a lackluster script and uninspired design, despite solid performances from the cast. Overall, it disappoints fans.
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Road | Royal Exchange, Manchester
The Royal Exchange Theatre’s 50th anniversary is marked by the revival of “Road,” directed by Selina Cartmell. This immersive production highlights themes of community and resilience, capturing the essence of northern working-class life. With powerful performances and evocative design, it balances humor and tragedy, breathing new life into a classic…
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The Night Larry Kramer Kissed Me | Hope Mill Theatre, Manchester
Hive North’s latest adaptation of The Night Larry Kramer Kissed Me, directed by Adam Zane, showcases a powerful performance by Gabriel Clark in this one-man play. It explores the history of LGBTQ+ struggles against persecution, notably through strong visuals and poignant storytelling. The production, running until February 14, is a…
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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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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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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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The Talented Mr. Ripley | Lowry, Salford
Patricia Highsmith’s Tom Ripley franchise, notably adapted into the 1999 film and the 2024 Netflix series, celebrates its 70th anniversary with Mark Leipacher’s new stage production. The Talented Mr. Ripley explores the complex character of Tom Ripley, portrayed compellingly by Ed McVey, who oscillates between charming and sinister. The production’s…
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It’s a Wonderful Life | Royal Court, Liverpool
Old Fruit Jar Productions has revived its successful adaptation of “It’s a Wonderful Life” at Liverpool’s Royal Court, featuring a fresh cast. Directed by Alex King and written by Mary Elliott Nelson, this rendition captures the film’s sentimentality and whimsy. It centers on George Bailey, portrayed by Sean Radford, who…
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Fawlty Towers – The Play | Opera House, Manchester
Fawlty Towers has been adapted for the stage with John Cleese’s approval, combining three classic episodes into a two-hour farce under Caroline Jay Ranger’s direction. Following a successful West End run, the production is now touring the UK, featuring Danny Bayne as Basil and Joanne Clifton as Polly. While it…
Stagey Reviews 