Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Sixty years ago this November, mother and daughter duo Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli performed together at the London Palladium. Taking this historic performance and centering it as the shows backdrop, Judy and Liza takes us on an emotional and impressive journey from The Wizard of Oz to Cabaret and much more in between.

Written by Emma Dears who also brilliantly portrays Liza, the show details both the highs and lows in the lives of these two legendary performers through their incredible back catalogues which are seamlessly interwoven between narration and anecdotes from years gone by.

Helen Sheals is superb as Judy, her mannerisms, voice and vocals matching the mega stars perfectly. The pairing of Sheals and Dears is wonderful, their chemistry as mother and daughter draws you in from their first moments on stage. Both incredible actors they tell the turbulent story of these two global icons with real heart and genuine emotion. There are moments of joy, tears and laughter as they explore the light and shade of these fascinating women.

This piece has been lovingly created with each song choice being perfectly placed, from Get Happy to Smile, each number is treated with love and care ensuing the audience hear old favourites in ways they may not have experienced before.

Vaunderville lightbulbs glow amidst a backdrop of photographic projections adding context to the narrative, bringing us into the heart of Judy and Liza’s world.

This simple yet effective staging allows the focus to remain on the two talented performers who give their all.

This is not a direct tribute show, more a lovingly curated homage to the talented pair. Act 1 primarily focussed on Garland’s early year, allowing Helen Sheals to take us on an incredible journey as Garland’s youth and innocence becomes tainted by Hollywood and the insecurities that plagued her life. Her haunting delivery of Somehwere Over The Rainbow which closes the Act is a heartbreaking highlight.

Act 2 shifts our focus more to Liza’s career, allowing Dears the opportunity to take centre stage. Her performance is authentic and impressive while she wonderfully embodies Liza with her convincing mannerisms and incredible vocals.

Judy and Liza is a hugely entertaining show. It will thrill long standing fans of the duo and no doubt win over new fans learning about their incredible lives for the first time. This show, which is now in its tenth year succeeds entirely in delivering an engaging, emotive experience for music fans of all ages, heartfelt and joyous.

Judy and Liza is touring until 29th June, further information and tickets can be found here.