Category: Plays
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Danesha | The Lowry, Salford
Stefanie Reynolds’ play “Danesha” is a modern coming-of-age story set in Preston, exploring themes of black culture, queerness, and self-discovery. Despite strong performances, particularly from Kelsie Gordon-Harrison, the play struggles to deeply engage with its vast themes within a short runtime, ultimately leading to an underwhelming conclusion.
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War Horse | The Lowry, Salford
War Horse, directed by Tom Morris and Katie Henry, is a visual and theatrical marvel currently touring the UK. Based on Michael Morpurgo’s novel, it tells the emotive story of Joey and his companion Albert during WWI. The production excels in puppetry, staging, and sound, creating an immersive experience that…
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Beautiful Thing | Storyhouse, Chester
“Beautiful Thing” celebrates 31 years as a heartwarming tribute to the LGBTQ+ community. Set in London, the play follows Jamie and Ste, two teens navigating their sexual identities. The production shines with talented cast performances, solid sound and lighting design, and evocative set details. While pacing and script nuances could…
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Margaret Thatcher – Queen of Soho | The Lowry, Salford
Margaret Thatcher – Queen of Soho, a big gay odyssey, portrays the what-if story of the first female UK Prime Minister on the eve of the Section 28 vote. With humor and satire, the production highlights LGBT rights and the 80s disco era. Despite technical hiccups, it offers much-needed theatrical…
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Coram Boy | The Lowry, Salford
Coram Boy, derived from Jamila Gavin’s novel, delves into the challenges of abandoned children in 18th-century England. It intertwines the lives of Alexander and Toby, showcasing societal cruelty and individual redemption. The play’s ensemble cast delivers outstanding performances, complemented by innovative direction, haunting music, and meticulous set design. Despite minor…
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Twelfth Night | Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot
The theatre company Not Too Tame presents a modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night at the Shakespeare North Playhouse. The play intertwines themes of grief, desire, love, and identity with the music industry. Despite some narrative confusion, standout performances and captivating music create an immersive experience. The production offers a…
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The Netherley Hillbillies | Royal Court, Liverpool
A rags-to-riches tale unfolds at Liverpool’s Royal Court, as a Scouse family hits the jackpot. The comedic play, “The Netherley Hillbillies,” captures the quirks of Liverpool with humor and a vibrant cast. Though some moments feel thin, standout performances and a meticulously crafted set make for an entertaining show, sure…
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Sweat | Royal Exchange, Manchester
The Royal Exchange theatre presents “Sweat,” a Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Lynn Nottage set in Reading, Pennsylvania during President Bush’s tenure. The play explores the lives of three working-class women and their relationships amidst economic hardship. The production features a standout ensemble cast, but suffers from pacing issues and a…
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A Taste of Honey | Royal Exchange, Manchester
Shelagh Delaney’s classic play “A Taste of Honey” returns to The Royal Exchange theatre in Manchester after 66 years. The story of a complex mother-daughter relationship in 1950s Salford remains relevant, though at times uncomfortable for modern audiences. The performances, set design, and music, including a haunting rendition of “Dirty…
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My Beautiful Laundrette | The Lowry, Salford
“My Beautiful Laundrette” adapted from Hanif Kureishi’s screenplay, depicts Thatcher-era London, focusing on British Pakistani, Omar, and his endeavor to revitalize a laundrette amidst societal unrest. However, the stage adaptation falls short due to an overcrowded narrative and lack of character development. Despite some bright spots, the overall production fails…
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