Category: Plays
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The Derby-Days | Royal Court, Liverpool
Ian Salmon’s play, The Derby-Days, explores the impact of football rivalry on family dynamics through the lens of Chloe Derby-Day, who has a divided allegiance at home. Directed by Nicole Behan, the performances shine as Sarah White and Dominic Carter portray a couple in conflict with exceptional chemistry. Elliott Kingsley…
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Private Lives | Octagon Theatre, Bolton
Tanuja Amarasuriya won the Peter Hall Director Award, allowing her to direct Noël Coward’s Private Lives, a satirical play exploring the complexities of relationships. The production features vibrant performances and strong character journeys, blending humor with darker themes, alongside effective set and sound design, despite some rhythmic flaws. A lively…
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Yen | Octagon, Bolton
Anna Jordan’s play Yen, set in a council flat, explores the harsh realities of life through the lens of two brothers, Hench and Bobbie, embodying raw co-dependency amid poverty. The characters, including their mother, are portrayed with depth as generational trauma unfolds in a gripping, intimate narrative that resonates powerfully.
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Canal Street Lonely Hearts Club | Hope Mill Theatre, Manchester
The review discusses Jonathan Harvey’s updated production of Rupert Street Lonely Hearts Club, set in 2025, focusing on five characters seeking connection in modern society. The play balances humor and emotional depth, although some humor feels dated. The performances are strong, with powerful themes on mental health and community support.…
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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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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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